Slow Cooker Chicken Dumplings: Amazing Comfort Food Recipe

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Slow Cooker Chicken Dumplings

Slow cooker chicken dumplings bring together tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and fluffy biscuits in one comforting meal. This hearty dish transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dinner that cooks itself while you handle your day. Perfect for busy families, cold evenings, or meal prep sessions, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

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Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Hands-off cooking method that saves you hours in the kitchen while creating a complete meal
  • Budget-friendly recipe using affordable ingredients that feeds a family of four for under $15
  • Packed with lean protein from chicken and essential vitamins from fresh vegetables like carrots and celery
  • One-pot convenience means less cleanup and more time with your loved ones
  • Freezer-friendly leftovers that reheat beautifully for quick weeknight dinners

Why This Slow Cooker Chicken Dumplings Recipe Works

This recipe succeeds because it layers flavors gradually. The chicken releases its juices during the long, slow cooking process, creating a rich base. The vegetables soften perfectly without becoming mushy, maintaining their nutritional value and texture.

The cream of chicken soup acts as both a thickener and flavor enhancer, while the milk adds richness without heaviness. Adding the biscuits during the final hour ensures they steam to perfection rather than becoming soggy. This timing creates the ideal dumpling texture that makes this dish irresistible.

slow cooker chicken dumplings food photograph 1

What You’ll Need for Slow Cooker Chicken Dumplings

This recipe requires basic pantry staples and fresh ingredients you likely have on hand. The total cost ranges from $12-15, making it an economical choice for feeding four people. Shopping tip: buy chicken breasts in bulk and freeze portions for future slow cooker meals.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantity (Approx)Purpose / Notes
Boneless chicken breasts4 pieces, cubedMain protein source, provides lean meat
Chicken broth1 can (14 oz)Creates flavorful cooking liquid base
Cream of chicken soup2 small cansThickens sauce and adds creamy texture
Milk1 cupAdds richness without heaviness
Garlic powder2 teaspoonsEnhances savory flavor profile
Salt and pepper1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepperEssential seasoning for taste balance
Carrots1 pound, slicedAdds sweetness and nutritional value
Celery4 ribs, slicedProvides crunch and classic flavor
Onion1 medium, dicedCreates aromatic base flavor
Frozen peas1/2 bagAdds color and fresh vegetable taste
Turkey bacon8 strips, cookedProvides smoky flavor and protein
Biscuit dough1 canCreates fluffy dumplings on top

Tools

ToolPurpose
6-quart slow cookerMain cooking vessel for entire recipe
Sharp knifeCuts chicken and vegetables uniformly
Cutting boardSafe surface for food preparation
Large spoonMixes ingredients and serves portions

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Dumplings

This straightforward process requires minimal prep work and delivers maximum results. The key is timing each addition correctly to ensure every component cooks perfectly.

StepInstructions
1. Prepare the SauceIn the crockpot, combine chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed and smooth.
2. Add Chicken and VegetablesAdd cubed chicken, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and diced onion to the crockpot. Mix well to coat everything in sauce.
3. Cook Low and SlowCover and cook on low for 6 hours. This allows flavors to meld and chicken to become tender.
4. Add Final IngredientsStir in crumbled turkey bacon and frozen peas. These cook quickly and maintain their texture.
5. Add DumplingsCut biscuit dough into quarters and place on top of mixture. Cook on high for 1 hour until biscuits are fluffy.
6. Serve HotLet rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows sauce to thicken slightly.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Cut chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces for even cooking and better texture in every bite
  • Don’t lift the lid during cooking as this releases steam and extends cooking time significantly
  • Pre-cook turkey bacon until crispy before adding to prevent soggy texture in final dish
  • Place biscuit quarters evenly across surface to ensure they all cook at the same rate
  • Let the dish rest 5 minutes after cooking to allow sauce to thicken naturally

Serving and Storage Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken Dumplings

This recipe serves four generously, with each portion providing approximately 450 calories and 35 grams of protein. The balanced nutrition makes it perfect for active families or anyone seeking a satisfying meal.

Serving Tips

Serve immediately while the dumplings are fluffy and the sauce is hot. Pair with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli for added vegetables. This dish works wonderfully for Sunday family dinners, potluck gatherings, or weeknight comfort meals.

For special occasions, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. The recipe easily doubles for larger crowds – just use a larger slow cooker and extend cooking time by 30 minutes. Leftovers store in the refrigerator for up to three days and freeze for up to three months.

slow cooker chicken dumplings food photograph 2

Mistakes to Avoid while making Slow Cooker Chicken Dumplings

Overcooking the vegetables creates mushy textures that ruin the dish’s appeal. Stick to the recommended cooking times and vegetable sizes for best results.

Adding biscuits too early causes them to dissolve into the sauce rather than maintaining their dumpling shape. Wait until the final hour for perfect texture.

Using frozen chicken extends cooking time and can create food safety issues. Always thaw chicken completely before adding to the slow cooker. Also, avoid opening the lid frequently as this releases essential steam and heat.

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You Must Know

  • Always thaw chicken completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and food safety
  • Don’t add dairy products at the beginning as they may curdle during long cooking times
  • Frozen vegetables like peas should be added in final 30 minutes to maintain color and texture
  • Use low-sodium broth and soup to control salt levels, especially if serving to children

Suggestions for Slow Cooker Chicken Dumplings

Transform this base recipe with different vegetables like corn, green beans, or mushrooms. Swap turkey bacon for diced ham or omit meat entirely for a lighter version.

For extra richness, substitute heavy cream for milk in the final 30 minutes. Add fresh herbs like rosemary or sage for elevated flavors. Consider using sweet potato instead of regular carrots for added nutrition and natural sweetness.

This recipe pairs beautifully with other comfort foods. Try it alongside our Ultimate Chicken Casserole for a complete comfort food spread. For dessert, our Keto Cloud Cake Recipe provides a light finish to this hearty meal.

Professional chefs recommend this cooking method for busy households. According to Allrecipes, slow cooker chicken and dumplings rank among the most popular comfort food recipes. NYT Cooking also features similar recipes that highlight the versatility of this cooking method.

slow cooker chicken dumplings food photograph 3

FAQs:


Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work excellently and stay more tender during long cooking. Use boneless, skinless thighs and cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.


How do I prevent the dumplings from getting soggy?

Add the biscuit dough only in the final hour and cook on high. Avoid lifting the lid during this time as steam is essential for proper dumpling texture.


Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Substitute coconut milk for regular milk and use dairy-free cream soup alternatives. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.


What's the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat gently in the microwave with a splash of broth to restore moisture. Alternatively, warm in a covered pot on low heat, stirring occasionally.


Can I prep this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, combine all ingredients except biscuits and peas in the slow cooker insert the night before. Refrigerate, then cook as directed, adding peas and biscuits at appropriate times.


Conclusion

Slow cooker chicken dumplings deliver comfort food satisfaction with minimal effort. This recipe transforms basic ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal that brings families together around the dinner table.

The hands-off cooking method makes it perfect for busy schedules, while the nutritious ingredients support healthy eating goals. With proper timing and technique, you’ll create a dish that becomes a regular family favorite.

Start this recipe on your next busy day and come home to the amazing aroma of homemade comfort food. Your family will thank you for this delicious, satisfying meal that proves slow cooking creates the best flavors.

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Slow Cooker Chicken Dumplings


  • Author: Jennie Graham
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 5 minutes before serving 1x

Description

A hearty and comforting slow cooker chicken dumplings recipe featuring tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and fluffy biscuit dumplings. This economical meal feeds four people and requires minimal prep work for maximum flavor.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 pieces boneless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 1 can (14 oz) chicken broth
  • 2 small cans cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1 pound carrots, sliced
  • 4 ribs celery, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1/2 bag frozen peas
  • 8 strips turkey bacon, cooked
  • 1 can biscuit dough

Instructions

  • Prepare the Sauce: In the crockpot, combine chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed and smooth.
  • Add Chicken and Vegetables: Add cubed chicken, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and diced onion to the crockpot. Mix well to coat everything in sauce.
  • Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours. This allows flavors to meld and chicken to become tender.
  • Add Final Ingredients: Stir in crumbled turkey bacon and frozen peas. These cook quickly and maintain their texture.
  • Add Dumplings: Cut biscuit dough into quarters and place on top of mixture. Cook on high for 1 hour until biscuits are fluffy.
  • Serve Hot: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows sauce to thicken slightly.

Notes

  • Cut chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces for even cooking and better texture in every bite
  • Don’t lift the lid during cooking as this releases steam and extends cooking time significantly
  • Pre-cook turkey bacon until crispy before adding to prevent soggy texture in final dish
  • Place biscuit quarters evenly across surface to ensure they all cook at the same rate
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (1/4 of recipe)
  • Calories: 485 calories
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 1250mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: slow cooker chicken dumplings, crockpot chicken, comfort food, easy dinner, one pot meal, family recipe

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