On chilly evenings when the world feels a little too rushed, there’s nothing quite like the comfort of a steaming bowl of Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings. The moment that rich aroma fills my kitchen—melding savory chicken, buttery dumplings, and fragrant herbs—I can’t help but feel at home. This recipe has become my go-to, especially when I’m craving something warm and heartfelt without the fuss.
What makes this dish even more delightful is its simple preparation: toss everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it! After a few hours, you’ll be greeted by a bubbling pot of goodness that’s as satisfying to eat as it is to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or enjoying a quiet night in, these chicken and dumplings promise to warm your soul while leaving plenty of time for you to unwind. Join me and discover how this easy recipe can elevate your dinner table while keeping fast food at bay!
Why is Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings a Must-Try?
Comforting warmth: There’s nothing better than a bowl of piping hot soup to take the chill off.
Effortless preparation: Just toss everything in your slow cooker and let it do the magic while you unwind.
Deliciously savory: The blend of chicken, creamy cheeses, and spices creates a flavor fiesta that will leave taste buds dancing.
Versatile delight: Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, it’s a dish that everyone will love.
Health-conscious option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, you can indulge without the guilt.
Easy clean-up: With just one pot to wash, you’ll have more time to relax and enjoy your meal. Don’t forget to explore other comforting recipes like Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup for a delightful variety!
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings Ingredients
For the Chicken Base
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts – 2 lbs. – This is the heart of the dish, ensuring tender meat in every bite.
- Onion – ½ cup, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth to the broth.
- Celery – ½ cup, chopped – Provides a delightful crunch and flavor balance.
- Butter – 2 tbsp, cut into pieces – Infuses the broth with richness.
- Seasoned salt – 1 tsp. – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Poultry seasoning – 1 tsp. – Brings a cozy aroma to the dish.
- Minced garlic – 2 tsp. – Delivers an irresistible aromatic punch.
- Chicken broth – 2 cups – Forms the savory base of your delicious slow cooker creation.
For the Dumplings
- Mozzarella cheese – 1 ½ cups, shredded – Melts beautifully, creating a satisfying texture.
- Cream cheese – 2 oz. – Adds creaminess and richness to the dumplings.
- Almond flour – 1 cup – A low-carb alternative that helps bind the dumplings.
- Baking powder – ½ teaspoon – Ensures your dumplings rise and become fluffy.
- Large egg – 1 – Binds the ingredients for a perfect dough consistency.
- Garlic powder – ¼ tsp. – Provides a subtle garlic flavor without overpowering.
- Italian seasoning – ¼ tsp. – Adds a burst of herbaceous goodness.
- Xanthan gum – ¼ tsp. – Helps to stabilize the dumpling texture.
- Salt – Pinch – Elevates the flavor overall.
Each ingredient comes together to make this Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings a heartwarming masterpiece you’ll want to savor again and again!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
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Add Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into your slow cooker, ensuring they create a nice base for all the delicious flavors to flow together.
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Season Generously: Sprinkle salt, pepper, seasoned salt, and poultry seasoning over the chicken. This will enhance the flavor and create a mouthwatering aroma as it cooks.
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Mix in Vegetables: Toss the chopped onion, celery, minced garlic, and butter pieces in with the chicken. This combination will deliver savory notes that fill your home with comfort.
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Pour Broth: Carefully pour the chicken broth over the mixture, ensuring all ingredients are well-covered for ample moisture and flavor infusion during cooking.
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Cook on High: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on high for 3 hours. The chicken should be tender, soaking up all those delightful seasonings.
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Melt the Cheeses: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine cream cheese and mozzarella cheese. Heat them in 30-second intervals until melted and smooth. Stir until fully combined.
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Prepare Dumpling Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the melted cheese mixture with the remaining dumpling ingredients. Blend until a smooth dough forms, creating the perfect base for fluffy dumplings.
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Shape Dumplings: Lightly wet your hands to help shape the dough. Form small dumplings, about the size of a golf ball, ensuring a nice texture as they cook.
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Cook Dumplings: Once the chicken is done, carefully place the dumplings into the crockpot. Cook on high for an additional hour, allowing the dumplings to steam and rise.
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Serve and Enjoy: After the cooking time, check the dumplings. Once fluffy and cooked through, serve the dish immediately, savoring every comforting bite.
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this dish to your taste buds—there’s more than one way to enjoy these comforting dumplings!
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Gluten-Free: Replace almond flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend for a deliciously inclusive meal.
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Cheesy Twist: Add a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a zesty flavor explosion in your dumplings.
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Herb Boost: Mix in fresh or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch that elevates the dish.
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Spicy Kick: Stir in a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to bring some heat to your cozy bowl.
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Veggie-Loaded: Incorporate chopped carrots or peas into the slow cooker for added nutrition and color.
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Dairy-Free: Swap mozzarella and cream cheese for dairy-free alternatives like cashew cheese or nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly option.
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Coconut Cream: For a tropical creamy twist, use coconut cream in place of cream cheese for a unique flavor profile.
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Savory Broth: Experiment with homemade or different flavored broths, like mushroom or vegetable, to enhance the depth of flavor.
Adding your personal touch not only makes the recipe unique but enriches the shared experience at your dinner table!
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the onion and celery and season the chicken the night before, storing it all in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavors. Additionally, you can prepare the cheese mixture and dumpling dough ahead of time, refrigerating it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply combine everything in the slow cooker and follow the remaining steps as usual. This approach keeps your dumplings fluffy and tasty, so you can enjoy restaurant-quality comfort food with minimal effort, even on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings?
As you settle in for a comforting meal, consider these delightful pairings to create a cozy dining experience.
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Buttered Corn: Sweet and tender, it adds a fresh pop that complements the savory chicken beautifully.
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Green Salad: Crisp greens with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing crunch and balance the richness of the dish.
Embrace freshness and texture with this pairing. A simple salad can elevate your meal, offering a contrast to the heartiness of the dumplings.
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Garlic Bread: Soft and buttery, it’s perfect for sopping up any remaining broth and adds an irresistible garlic flavor.
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Roasted Vegetables: Bright, colorful veggies roasted to perfection add both flavor and nutrition, enhancing the comforting dish.
Roasting brings out sweetness in vegetables, creating a perfect foil for the savory chicken and dumplings.
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Refreshing Lemonade: A chilled glass offers a delightful tang that can cut through the richness of the meal.
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Apple Crisp: This warm dessert provides a delightful end to your meal, with its sweet and savory notes wrapping up the evening perfectly.
Every bite brings back memories of home-cooked goodness, making it the ideal duo to enjoy after your satisfying bowl of Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings.
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies and quality chicken improve flavor significantly. Avoid pre-packaged options that might lack freshness.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure ingredients fit comfortably in your slow cooker for even cooking. Too much can lead to soggy dumplings.
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Perfect Dumpling Texture: Don’t overmix the dumpling dough. Mixing just until combined creates a lighter, fluffier texture for your dumplings.
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Adjust Seasoning Carefully: Taste and adjust salt and seasoning towards the end of cooking. This prevents over-salting as flavors develop during the slow cook process.
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Check Cooking Times: Every slow cooker varies. Keep an eye on the chicken and dumplings, especially the last hour—it’s better to catch them just right than overcook!
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Freezer: If you want to make a big batch, freeze portions in airtight freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat frozen portions in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the dumplings moist. Heat until warmed throughout.
Wrapping: Ensure the dish is cooled completely before refrigerating or freezing; this helps maintain flavor and texture in your delicious Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings recipe. They remain tender and juicy, soaking up all the flavors from the broth and spices, making every bite delicious.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a saucepan or microwave until warmed through for maximum comfort.
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then portion it into airtight freezer bags. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the dumplings moist.
What if my dumplings are too dense?
Very often, dense dumplings result from overmixing the batter or using an incorrect flour measurement. To fix this, make sure to mix the dumpling ingredients until just combined. If you find they’re too dense after cooking, try adding a little broth while they’re reheating, which can help soften them.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you’re gluten-sensitive or have allergies, make sure to use gluten-free baking powder and verify that all ingredients are compatible with your dietary needs. For those with lactose intolerance, you can substitute the cream cheese and mozzarella with non-dairy alternatives to maintain the creamy texture while keeping it dairy-free.
Savory Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into your slow cooker, ensuring they create a nice base for all the delicious flavors to flow together.
- Sprinkle salt, pepper, seasoned salt, and poultry seasoning over the chicken. This will enhance the flavor and create a mouthwatering aroma as it cooks.
- Toss the chopped onion, celery, minced garlic, and butter pieces in with the chicken. This combination will deliver savory notes that fill your home with comfort.
- Carefully pour the chicken broth over the mixture, ensuring all ingredients are well-covered for ample moisture and flavor infusion during cooking.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on high for 3 hours. The chicken should be tender, soaking up all those delightful seasonings.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine cream cheese and mozzarella cheese. Heat them in 30-second intervals until melted and smooth. Stir until fully combined.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the melted cheese mixture with the remaining dumpling ingredients. Blend until a smooth dough forms, creating the perfect base for fluffy dumplings.
- Lightly wet your hands to help shape the dough. Form small dumplings, about the size of a golf ball, ensuring a nice texture as they cook.
- Once the chicken is done, carefully place the dumplings into the crockpot. Cook on high for an additional hour, allowing the dumplings to steam and rise.
- After the cooking time, check the dumplings. Once fluffy and cooked through, serve the dish immediately, savoring every comforting bite.