Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food! This dish combines tender chicken with flavorful dumplings, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With its creamy texture and hearty ingredients, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. You can enjoy it any time of the year, and it’s sure to become a favorite on your menu.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Prepare – Just toss everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it!
• Flavorful Comfort Food – The combination of cream of chicken soup and seasonings creates a rich taste that everyone loves.
• Versatile Meal – Great as a main dish, this recipe pairs well with various sides or can be enjoyed on its own.
• Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will enjoy this hearty dish, making it perfect for family meals.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Forks

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker – This is essential for achieving that tender chicken texture while allowing flavors to meld beautifully over hours.
• Medium bowl – Perfect for mixing ingredients together before adding them to the slow cooker, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.

Ingredients

To make Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Base

• 3 to 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 (10.5-oz) cans Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp onion powder (or to taste)
• ½ tsp garlic powder (or to taste)
• 2 Tbsp melted butter

For the Dumplings

• 1 (16.3-oz) can refrigerated biscuits

How to Make Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

1. Spray a 6-qt slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together:
2. Cream of chicken soup
3. Onion powder
4. Garlic powder
5. Melted butter
6. Chicken broth
7. Pour the mixture over the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Place the lid on the crockpot.
2. Cook on LOW heat for 5 hours.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

1. Remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board.
2. Shred the chicken using two forks.
3. Return shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to combine with other ingredients.

Step 5: Prepare the Biscuits

1. Open a can of refrigerated biscuits.
2. Separate biscuits and cut each biscuit into 8 bite-sized pieces.

Step 6: Cook Biscuits

1. Sprinkle biscuit dough over the top of the chicken mixture in the slow cooker.
2. Cover and cook on HIGH heat for about 1 hour until biscuits are cooked through.
3. Garnish with fresh cracked pepper and dried parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings! This meal is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds!

How to Serve Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds a fresh crunch and balances the creamy texture of the chicken and dumplings.
• Roasted Carrots – Sweet, caramelized roasted carrots complement the savory flavors of the dish.

As a Hearty Meal

• Serve with Rice – A scoop of fluffy rice can soak up the delicious broth, making for a filling meal.
• Add a Side Salad – A crisp garden salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken and dumplings.

Garnishes and Extras

• Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top for added freshness and flavor.
• Hot Sauce – A dash of your favorite hot sauce can give an extra kick to each bite.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings

To make your Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients – Fresh chicken breasts and high-quality cream of chicken soup will elevate the flavor.
• Adjust Spices to Taste – Feel free to modify onion powder and garlic powder amounts according to your preferences for more or less flavor.
• Cook on Low for Tender Chicken – Cooking on low heat allows the chicken to become tender, ensuring it shreds easily.
• Don’t Rush the Cooking Time – Allowing enough time for both the chicken and dumplings ensures they cook through perfectly without being doughy.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Pairing side dishes with your Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up any extra broth; it’s a classic side that everyone loves.
2. Coleslaw – A tangy slaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing the creaminess of the main dish.
3. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread is a delightful pairing that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
4. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes can be an indulgent addition that enhances comfort food vibes.
5. Green Beans Almondine – Sautéed green beans with almonds add elegance and texture alongside your dish.
6. Cauliflower Mash – A lighter alternative to mashed potatoes, this pairs well without overpowering the main flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings, it’s easy to overlook some crucial details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Bold overcooking dumplings: Cooking the dumplings for too long can make them tough. Monitor the cooking time closely after adding them to the pot.
• Bold skipping the broth: Using only cream of chicken soup without broth can create a thick, unappetizing texture. Ensure you include low-sodium chicken broth for optimal consistency.
• Bold using frozen chicken: Cooking from frozen can result in unevenly cooked chicken. Always use thawed, boneless skinless chicken breasts for even cooking.
• Bold ignoring lid placement: Removing the lid frequently during cooking releases heat and extends cooking time. Keep the lid on as much as possible to maintain steady temperatures.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label with date for easy identification.

Reheating Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings, we’ve got answers!

What is the best way to thicken my Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings?

To thicken your dish, you can mix a little cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the mixture before adding dumplings. This will create a creamy texture.

Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey or beef if desired. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure proper doneness.

How do I store leftover Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can I customize my dumplings?

Yes! You can add herbs like rosemary or thyme to your biscuit dough or even incorporate vegetables directly into the mixture for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings is a delightful comfort food that is both easy to prepare and delicious. With its creamy texture and tender chicken, this dish can easily become a family favorite. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables for extra flavor. Try this recipe today and enjoy its comforting goodness!