Ultimate Comfort: Savory Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings with Homemade Goodness

Embracing Comfort: The Magic of Slow Cooker Meals

Discovering the Best Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings Recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings: The Ultimate Recipe

This printable recipe is designed for ease and maximum flavor, perfect for a cozy family meal. It elevates a classic dish with tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and wonderfully fluffy dumplings, all made effortlessly in your slow cooker. For best results, consider using organic or locally sourced ingredients where possible to enhance the overall taste and nutritional value of this comforting meal. This recipe promises a rich, creamy, and hearty dish that will become a staple in your meal rotation.

Ingredients:

• 1-1/2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed: Opt for high-quality chicken breasts for tender, juicy results. Cutting them into uniform 1-inch cubes ensures even cooking. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat, which adds a bit more richness to the stew.
• 2 stalks celery, sliced: Adds a subtle, aromatic crunch and classic flavor depth to the base of the stew.
• 1/2 onion, chopped: A foundational flavor base for the stew. Any type of onion (yellow, white, or sweet) will work well here, contributing a savory sweetness.
• 2 medium potatoes, cubed: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are excellent choices as they absorb flavors beautifully and help thicken the stew slightly, providing that satisfying hearty texture. Cut them into roughly 1-inch cubes.
• 3 carrots, sliced: Contributes natural sweetness and vibrant color, while also adding essential vitamins and a pleasing texture.
• 2 (10.75 oz) cans condensed cream of chicken soup: This is the secret to a rich, velvety broth that forms the backbone of the stew. Choose natural or 98% fat-free versions for a lighter option without sacrificing creaminess and flavor.
• 1 cup water: Helps to create the perfect consistency for the stew. For an even deeper flavor profile, you could substitute this with low-sodium chicken broth.
• 1 tsp. dried thyme: A classic herb that pairs beautifully with chicken and adds an earthy, savory note that is essential to traditional comfort food.
• 1/4 tsp. black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper will offer the best aroma and taste, enhancing all the other flavors in the dish. Adjust to your preference.
• 2 cups all-purpose baking mix (such as Bisquick): The key to our easy, homemade-style dumplings. This convenient mix already contains flour, leavening agents, and a touch of fat, making dumpling preparation incredibly simple.
• 2/3 cup milk: Whole milk, 2%, or even a non-dairy alternative like unsweetened almond milk will work perfectly for creating a smooth, tender dumpling batter.

Directions:

1. Prepare the Base: Begin by layering the cubed chicken, sliced celery, chopped onion, cubed potatoes, and sliced carrots evenly at the bottom of your large slow cooker. Distributing the ingredients well ensures even cooking and allows all the wonderful flavors to meld beautifully together during the long cooking process.
2. Mix the Broth: In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, water (or chicken broth), dried thyme, and black pepper until thoroughly combined and smooth. This mixture forms the rich, flavorful liquid base that will envelop your chicken and vegetables, creating that signature comforting stew.
3. Combine and Cook: Pour the prepared soup mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. Make sure all ingredients are adequately covered by the liquid. Secure the lid tightly. Cook on the LOW setting for 7-8 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours. The cooking time will vary slightly depending on your specific slow cooker’s model and heat retention, so ensure the chicken is completely cooked through (no longer pink inside) and the vegetables are fork-tender before proceeding.
4. Prepare and Add Dumplings: Once the main stew is cooked and simmering, it’s time for the fluffy dumplings! In a small bowl, gently stir together the all-purpose baking mix and milk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter; a few lumps are perfectly fine and will actually lead to more tender dumplings. If your slow cooker is on LOW, now is the crucial time to turn it up to HIGH to ensure the dumplings cook properly. Using a regular spoon or a small cookie scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter over the top of the hot chicken mixture. They don’t need to be perfectly shaped; rustic drops are part of their charm and homemade appeal.
5. Cook the Dumplings: After adding the dumplings, slightly tilt the lid of your slow cooker to create a small vent. This is an important step as it allows steam to escape, which helps the dumplings cook through thoroughly and prevents them from becoming too soggy. Cook for approximately 30 minutes, or until the dumplings are puffed up, appear cooked completely (no longer wet or doughy on top), and are firm to the touch. You can test one by gently piercing it with a toothpick or small knife to ensure it’s cooked through in the center.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once the dumplings are perfectly cooked, carefully remove the lid. Ladle generous portions of this comforting slow cooker chicken and dumplings into bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives, if desired, for a touch of freshness and color. Serve immediately and savor every warm, flavorful bite of this homemade goodness! It’s perfect on its own, or with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for dipping.

*Recipe adapted from allrecipes

Looking for More Easy & Delicious Dinner Ideas?

If you loved the simplicity and heartwarming flavor of our Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings, you’re in for a treat! We understand the constant need for convenient yet wholesome family meals, especially on busy weeknights or when you crave delicious comfort food without the fuss. That’s why we’ve curated a collection of other fantastic recipes designed to make your weeknights easier and more delicious. Explore these other highly-rated dinner options that cleverly utilize your crock pot or offer straightforward baking methods, ensuring flavorful results with minimal effort:

We hope you find these additional recipes as delightful and convenient as our Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings. Each one is crafted to bring joy and ease to your kitchen, helping you create memorable meals with less stress. Happy cooking, and enjoy exploring new flavors!

{Print Recipe HERE}