Search

Chicken and Dumplings Crockpot Recipe That Warms the Soul Instantly

Some meals just feel like home. They’re warm, cozy, and make the whole house smell amazing. Chicken and dumplings crockpot style is exactly that kind of meal. It’s easy, filling, and comes together with simple ingredients. No standing over the stove. No complicated steps. Just pure comfort in a bowl.

If you love effortless dinners, this one’s for you. The slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day. You toss everything in, let it simmer, and come back to tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a creamy, flavorful broth.

chicken and dumplings crockpot

Here’s what you’ll find in this post:

  • Step-by-step instructions – A foolproof guide to making it from scratch.
  • Tips to make it even better – Simple tricks for extra flavor and perfect dumplings.
  • Side dish ideas – What to serve with it for a complete meal.
  • Make-ahead and freezer options – How to store, reheat, and meal prep.
  • Fun variations – Ways to customize it, from spicy to dairy-free.

This dish is a must for busy nights, lazy weekends, or when you just want something warm and satisfying. Leftovers? Even better the next day. Need more inspiration? Pinterest is packed with different ways to tweak this classic, but this version keeps things simple, flavorful, and stress-free.

By the end of this post, you’ll know how to make chicken and dumplings in the crockpot like a pro. Let’s get cooking!

chicken and dumplings crockpot

This site includes affiliate links; you can check the disclosure for more details.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Making chicken and dumplings crockpot style means keeping it simple. No fancy ingredients, just kitchen staples that turn into something special.

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – Thighs add extra flavor, but either will work.
  • 4 cups chicken broth – A good-quality broth makes all the difference.
  • 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup – This gives the dish a rich, creamy base.
  • 1 cup chopped carrots – Adds a little sweetness and color.
  • 1 cup chopped celery – Brings out that classic comforting flavor.
  • 1 small onion, diced – A must for depth and richness.
  • 1 teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper – A little warmth without overpowering.
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Just enough to enhance the flavors.
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme – Gives it that homemade taste.
  • 1 (16-ounce) can refrigerated biscuit dough – The easiest way to make dumplings.
bowl of crockpot chicken and dumplings

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – For extra depth of flavor.
  • 1 cup diced potatoes – Makes it even heartier.
  • 1 cup frozen peas – Toss them in at the end for a pop of color.

Once you gather your ingredients, the hard part is over. The slow cooker does the rest.

Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)
$69.99
Buy Now
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
02/10/2025 06:33 am GMT
ingredients on the counter for dinner

How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

The best thing about this recipe? It takes almost no effort. Just toss everything in, let it cook, and enjoy a warm, comforting meal.

  1. Prep the chicken. Place the 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken into the crockpot. No need to cut it—shredding comes later.
  2. Add the broth and seasonings. Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, 1 (10.5-ounce) can of cream of chicken soup, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon dried thyme. Stir to combine.
  3. Toss in the veggies. Add 1 cup chopped carrots, 1 cup chopped celery, and 1 small diced onion. These will soften as they cook, adding flavor.
  4. Cook on low. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.
  5. Shred the chicken. Use two forks to pull it apart right in the crockpot. Stir everything together.
  6. Add the dumplings. Tear 1 (16-ounce) can of refrigerated biscuit dough into small, bite-sized pieces and drop them into the crockpot. Stir gently so they don’t clump together.
  7. Cook a little longer. Cover and cook for another hour on low, until the dumplings are soft, fluffy, and fully cooked.

That’s it—no extra steps, no complicated techniques. Just an easy, delicious meal made in one pot with minimal effort.

bowl of chicken and dumplings

Tips for the Best Chicken and Dumplings

Want to make chicken and dumplings crockpot style even better? A few easy tricks can take it from good to downright amazing. It’s already simple, but these little tweaks make all the difference.

  • Make homemade dumplings. If you’ve got a little extra time, skip the canned biscuits and mix up your own dumpling dough. Just combine 1 cup flour, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ cup milk. Drop spoonfuls into the crockpot in the last hour of cooking for soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up all that flavor.
  • Season well. A bland dish is a sad dish. Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme are a great start, but don’t be afraid to taste and adjust. Want a little kick? Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper for warmth without overpowering the comfort factor.
  • Don’t overcook the dumplings. Nobody wants soggy dumplings. They should be light and fluffy, not gummy or mushy. Once you drop them in, give them about an hour. If you let them sit too long, they’ll absorb too much liquid and turn into a gluey mess.
  • Thicken the broth. If you love a thicker, gravy-like consistency, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir it in before adding the dumplings. It’ll create a rich, silky texture without changing the flavor.
  • Make it creamy. A splash of ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half in the last few minutes makes the broth velvety smooth. It’s an easy way to make the dish feel even more indulgent.

These small changes don’t take much effort but make a huge difference. The result? A crockpot full of warm, comforting, perfectly seasoned chicken and dumplings you’ll want to make again and again.

Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatile Cookware for Large Families or Entertaining
$34.99
Buy Now
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
02/10/2025 09:52 am GMT
chicken and dumplings crockpot

What to Serve With It

Chicken and dumplings in the crockpot is great on its own, but adding a little side dish can make it even better. Whether you want to add more texture, color, or just stretch the meal for a bigger crowd, these sides pair perfectly.

  • Crusty bread – A warm, buttery slice of French bread or a soft dinner roll is perfect for soaking up all that creamy broth. Want to make it even better? Just spread some garlic butter on top and give it a light toast.
  • Side salad – A crisp, fresh salad balances the richness of the dish. Think simple—mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. No heavy dressings needed; just something bright to cut through the creaminess.
  • Steamed green beans – Want an easy veggie? Toss some green beans in a steamer with a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lemon juice. They add a pop of color and a little crunch to the meal.
  • Roasted potatoes – Yes, this dish already has dumplings, but if you’re feeding a crowd (or just love carbs), crispy roasted potatoes make a great addition. Coat diced potatoes with olive oil, salt, and garlic powder, then roast them at 400°F for 30 minutes until golden brown.
  • Sautéed spinach or kale – If you want a simple but nutrient-packed side, quickly sauté some spinach or kale in olive oil with a bit of garlic. It’s fast, healthy, and adds a nice contrast to the dish’s creamy texture.

Even without a side, this meal is warm, filling, and satisfying. But if you want to stretch it a little further or add variety, these easy sides make it feel like a full feast.

chicken and dumplings crockpot

Can You Make It Ahead?

Absolutely! One of the best things about chicken and dumplings crockpot style is that it actually tastes better the next day. The flavors have time to blend, and the broth gets even richer. If you love easy meal prep, this is a great dish to make ahead.

Here’s how to do it:

  • Make it the day before. Cook the recipe as usual, then let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up.
  • Freeze it for later. Want to make a big batch and save some for another day? Go for it! But here’s the trick—leave out the dumplings before freezing. They don’t hold up well and tend to get mushy when thawed. Instead, freeze just the chicken and broth mixture. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the base, then add fresh biscuit dough to cook just like normal.
  • Reheat leftovers the right way. If you’re warming up a bowl for lunch the next day, the stovetop is the best option. Heat it on low, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between to make sure everything warms evenly.
  • Thicken it up if needed. Sometimes, leftovers absorb liquid and get thicker overnight. If that happens, just add ¼ cup of broth or milk while reheating to bring back that creamy consistency.

Making it ahead is a smart move, whether you’re planning meals for the week or just want dinner ready with no effort. It’s one of those meals that only gets better with time!

chicken and dumplings crockpot

Variations to Try

Want to put your own twist on chicken and dumplings in the crockpot? This recipe is super flexible, so you can easily tweak it to match your taste. Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

  • Spicy version: If you like a little heat, add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes when seasoning the broth. You can also stir in a few dashes of hot sauce at the end for an extra kick.
  • Herby version: Fresh herbs make a big difference. Try adding 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary or sage for a deeper, more savory flavor. If you do not have fresh herbs, no worries! Dried ones will do—just use half the amount since they are stronger.
  • Dairy-free version: Need to skip the dairy? Swap out the cream of chicken soup for 1 cup full-fat coconut milk or 1 cup unsweetened almond milk mixed with 1 tablespoon cornstarch for a creamy, dairy-free alternative. Use dairy-free biscuit dough or make simple dumplings with flour, baking powder, salt, and water.
  • Vegetarian version: Want to skip the meat? Swap the chicken for 3 cups of sliced mushrooms, diced potatoes, or canned chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and add extra veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for even more flavor.
  • Extra creamy version: If you love an ultra-rich broth, stir in ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

This dish is easy to customize, so don’t be afraid to get creative! No matter how you make it, it’s always a warm and comforting meal.

dumpling on a spoon over a bowl of chicken and dumplings
chicken and dumplings crockpot

Chicken and Dumplings Crockpot Recipe

InsiderMama.com
This slow cooker chicken and dumplings crockpot recipe is the ultimate comfort food. With tender shredded chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a creamy, flavorful broth, it’s an easy, hands-off meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 10.5-ounce can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup chopped carrots
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 16-ounce can refrigerated biscuit dough

Optional Add-Ins

  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup diced potatoes
  • 1 cup frozen peas added at the end
  • ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half for extra creaminess

Instructions
 

  • Place the boneless, skinless chicken in the crockpot.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup. Stir to combine.
  • Add the chopped carrots, celery, diced onion, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Stir again.
  • Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.
  • Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir.
  • Tear the refrigerated biscuit dough into small, bite-sized pieces and drop them into the crockpot. Gently stir to prevent clumping.
  • Cover and cook for an additional hour on low, until the dumplings are fluffy and fully cooked.
  • If using frozen peas, stir them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
  • For a creamier consistency, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half before serving.
  • Ladle into bowls and serve warm. Enjoy!
chicken and dumplings crockpot

Final Thoughts

Slow cooker meals make life easier, and chicken and dumplings crockpot style is one of the best. It’s cozy, filling, and simple to throw together. You get tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a creamy, flavorful broth—all with minimal effort.

Here’s what we covered:

  • Easy recipe: Just throw in the ingredients, let the slow cooker do its thing, and enjoy!
  • Pro tips: From seasoning tricks to thickening the broth, small tweaks make a big difference.
  • Side dish ideas: Whether it’s crusty bread, a fresh salad, or roasted potatoes, there are plenty of ways to round out the meal.
  • Make-ahead options: This dish stores well, reheats beautifully, and can even be frozen for later.
  • Fun variations: Want it spicy? Dairy-free? Extra creamy? There are endless ways to customize it.

This meal is perfect for busy nights, lazy Sundays, or anytime you need something warm and comforting. It’s one of those recipes you’ll want to keep on repeat, especially when the weather gets chilly.

And if you’re looking for even more easy dinner ideas, check out Pinterest. You’ll find all kinds of variations, from creative dumpling swaps to different seasoning blends. But honestly, once you try this version, you may not need another. It’s just that good!

Recent Posts

Hi! I'm Jen, and I'm thrilled you stopped by!

I am a certified life coach, mother of five, wife, founder of the non-profit Eye on Vision Foundation, entrepreneur, Christian, and friend. I live, play, work and worship in the Orlando, Florida area.

Let the posts come to you!