Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Name: Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1 tsp salt; 2/3 cup milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals

I absolutely love making Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings on cozy days when all I want is a warm, comforting bowl of goodness. It reminds me of family gatherings where we would enjoy hearty meals together. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let them do their magic. The tender chicken combined with soft dumplings creates an indulgent experience that I can't resist. It’s not just food; it’s a hug in a bowl that warms your heart!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-18T16:34:28.527Z

When I set out to perfect my Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, I was determined to capture that homemade feel without spending all day in the kitchen. I chose to use frozen vegetables for convenience while ensuring that they still packed flavors and nutrients. It turned out to be the ultimate time-saver, keeping the essence of a home-cooked meal.

Another delightful trick I discovered was adding a splash of cream just before serving. It not only enhances the richness but also gives the dumplings the perfect silky texture. Believe me, this little extra step elevates the entire dish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Heartwarming flavors that transport you back to family dinners
Easy prep and cleanup for a stress-free cooking experience
Rich and creamy dumplings that soak up all the delicious broth

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The chicken thighs are the star of this Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe. Their higher fat content compared to chicken breasts ensures that they become incredibly tender and flavorful during the slow cooking process. If you prefer a leaner option, boneless chicken breasts can be used, but be mindful that they may need less cooking time—around 4 to 5 hours on low—to avoid dryness.

Using frozen mixed vegetables is a great shortcut, not to mention it adds a colorful mix of peas, carrots, and corn that enhance the dish's appeal. If you have fresh vegetables on hand, feel free to dice up carrots, celery, or even green beans to use instead. Just remember that fresh vegetables might require a slightly longer cooking time to ensure they are tender.

Perfecting Your Dumplings

The dumplings are what elevate this dish from a simple soup to something truly comforting. Ensure to mix the dough just until combined; overmixing can lead to dense dumplings instead of light and fluffy ones. When you're dropping the dumplings onto the broth, try to space them evenly—this allows for even cooking and maximizes their fluffy texture.

For a twist on flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or chives to your dumpling mixture. These can brighten up the dish, adding a fresh touch. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend can work well. Just be sure to check the blend's instructions, as you may need to adjust the liquid accordingly.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make this hearty dish.

For the Chicken and Broth

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dumplings

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
2/3 cup milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

These ingredients come together to create a comforting dish.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your delicious meal.

Prepare the Chicken and Broth

In your crockpot, combine the chicken thighs, chicken broth, frozen mixed vegetables, chopped onion, minced garlic, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix everything together.

Cook the Mixture

Set your crockpot to low and cook for about 6 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.

Make the Dumplings

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the milk and melted butter, stirring until a soft dough forms.

Add Dumplings to the Crockpot

Once the chicken is cooked, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture over the chicken and broth. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes on high until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.

Serve and Enjoy

Stir everything gently before serving. Enjoy your warm bowl of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings!

Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of your dish!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try using homemade chicken broth. You can also experiment with herbs like rosemary or parsley when adding the broth.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the joys of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is that it can be made ahead of time. You can prepare the chicken and broth component a day before and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it in the crockpot for an hour before adding the dumplings. This also allows the flavors to deepen, making your dish even more delicious when you finally serve it.

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t fret! Store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The dumplings may become softer upon reheating, so to enjoy a bit of their original fluffiness, you might want to reheat them separately in the oven for a few minutes.

Serving Suggestions

To serve your Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, consider adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. A side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad can also complement this dish wonderfully, allowing for a more rounded meal experience. If you’re feeling indulgent, a drizzle of heavy cream over the top can enhance the dish's creaminess.

Don’t hesitate to make it your own by incorporating different spices or sides. For example, a sprinkle of paprika can bring a different flavor profile to the broth, while a side of roasted vegetables adds healthy crunch and texture. Experimenting with the seasoning can make this family favorite a little different each time you make it!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well but might dry out a bit more than thighs.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients the night before and just start the crockpot in the morning.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It's perfect on its own, but a side salad would complement it nicely!