Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings: A Comforting Classic

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings to bring comfort on a chilly evening. This dish has been a staple in Southern cuisine for generations, combining tender, slow-cooked chicken with soft, pillowy dumplings, all swimming in a rich, savory broth. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, yet it delivers a depth of flavor that makes it a favorite for families across the world. Whether you’re reminiscing about childhood memories or looking for a hassle-free meal that fills the soul, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home.

The History of Chicken and Dumplings

Chicken and dumplings have deep roots in Southern and Midwestern American cuisine, though similar versions of the dish can be found in various cultures worldwide. The dish is believed to have originated during the Great Depression when home cooks needed a way to stretch limited ingredients into a filling and satisfying meal. Dumplings, made from simple pantry staples like flour, water, and fat, were added to stews to create a complete meal with minimal ingredients. Over time, different regions adapted their variations, with some preferring flat dumplings and others opting for fluffy, biscuit-like versions.

Benefits of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

This dish is more than just a comfort food; it has several benefits:

1. Nutritional Value – Chicken provides high-quality protein, while vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
2. Budget-Friendly – Made with inexpensive ingredients, this dish is a great way to feed a family without breaking the bank.
3. Easy to Make – Using a crockpot makes this recipe practically effortless, allowing you to set it and forget it.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep – This dish reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers.
5. Versatile – You can add different herbs, spices, or even a splash of cream to tailor the flavor to your liking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Stew:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 6 boneless thighs)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 large carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons butter

For the Dumplings:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3/4 cup whole milk
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Stew

1. Place the chicken breasts or thighs into the crockpot.
2. Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup, then stir to combine.
4. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, thyme, parsley, poultry seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
5. Add 2 tablespoons of butter for extra richness.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and shreds easily.

Step 2: Shred the Chicken

1. Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks.
2. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it into the broth mixture.

Step 3: Make the Dumplings

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, thyme, and garlic powder.
2. Slowly add the milk and melted butter, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
3. Using a spoon, drop dollops of the dough directly into the simmering chicken mixture.
4. Cover and continue cooking on high for another 1-2 hours until the dumplings are cooked through. They should be soft and fluffy but firm to the touch.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 750mg

Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is a true comfort food classic that brings warmth and joy to the dinner table. With its tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and soft, flavorful dumplings, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or serving it to a crowd, it’s guaranteed to please. Try this recipe and watch it become a cherished favorite in your household!

Who Loves Chicken and Dumplings?

Chicken and dumplings have a fan base spanning generations. Whether it’s grandmothers passing down recipes, kids enjoying their first taste of comfort food, or busy parents looking for an easy, nourishing meal, this dish is universally loved. Even those who are new to slow-cooking will appreciate the simplicity and flavor-packed result.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your crockpot, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this timeless dish!

Happy Cooking! 🍲