Creamy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

When I first encountered the recipe for Creamy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings, I was searching for a comforting meal that would warm up my family during a chilly evening. This dish combines all the goodness of hearty chicken stew with fluffy dumplings, creating a mouthwatering comfort food experience that’s simply unbeatable. It’s the kind of recipe that reminds you of home, with rich flavors and a delightful texture that envelops you like a warm hug.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This Creamy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe offers so many unique benefits that it’s hard not to fall in love. First off, it’s a one-pot wonder, meaning cleanup is a breeze after the meal. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner after a long day, allowing you to pop everything in the crockpot and return a few hours later to an aromatic, filling feast. Not only is it comforting and satisfying, but it’s also incredibly budget-friendly, making it an excellent choice for families.

"I made this for my family on a busy Wednesday, and they couldn’t stop asking for seconds! This dish felt like a warm hug on a plate!" – A happy home cook

Preparing Creamy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. To start, you’ll layer the fresh ingredients in your crockpot, letting them cook low and slow for the perfect tenderness. With minimal hands-on time, it’s easy to fit this into your daily routine. After a few hours, you’ll shred the chicken and add the creamy elements and fluffy dumplings for that iconic finish.

What You’ll Need

Gather these items to create a hearty meal that everyone will adore:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs)
• 1 cup yellow onion (diced)
• 1 cup carrots (peeled and sliced)
• 1 cup celery (sliced)
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup (do not dilute)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1 can (16.3 oz) refrigerated buttermilk biscuits (8-count can)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1/4 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

It’s a flexible recipe, so feel free to swap out chicken thighs for breasts or add in other vegetables you enjoy!

Directions to Follow

Here’s how to make this delicious dish step by step:

1. In your crockpot, combine the chicken, diced onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, chicken broth, and cream of chicken soup.
2. Sprinkle in the thyme, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to blend the flavors.
3. Cover the crockpot and set it to low. Allow it to simmer for about 6-7 hours, or until the chicken is fork-tender.
4. Once the chicken is cooked, shred it directly in the pot using two forks.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and optional frozen peas, if using.
6. Break the buttermilk biscuits into quarters and drop them into the broth.
7. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes on high heat until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve your Creamy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings in deep, inviting bowls, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Pair this dish with a crisp side salad or some steamed green beans for a balanced meal. For an extra comforting experience, I love serving it alongside a warm slice of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious broth!

How to Store

If you have leftovers (and trust me, you may want to make extra), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply heat on the stove over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but be sure to cover it and stir occasionally to heat evenly.

Helpful Cooking Tips

To take your Creamy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings to the next level, consider these pro tips:

• Sear Your Chicken: If you have a bit of extra time, searing the chicken in a hot skillet before adding it to the crockpot will add depth of flavor to your dish.
• Thickening the Broth: If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the crockpot about 30 minutes before the end of cooking.
• Adding Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary added just before serving can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.

Recipe Variations

Feeling creative? Here are some twists you can try with this recipe:

• Swap out the buttermilk biscuits for homemade biscuit dough for a personalized touch.
• Add diced potatoes for an even heartier dish.
• Experiment with different veggies like green beans, corn, or even mushrooms for a unique spin.
• For a slightly spicy kick, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños.

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is about 15-20 minutes, making it quite easy to assemble before letting the crockpot do the work.

Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! You can add frozen chicken straight to the crockpot. Just increase the cooking time slightly if needed.

How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken will be fork-tender when it easily shreds. You should see it pull apart with ease using two forks.

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