Step 1: Add the Ingredients to the Slow Cooker
Place the chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.
Pour in the chicken broth and add the thyme, parsley, garlic powder, black pepper, and a little salt. Stir in the condensed cream of chicken soup until the broth is reasonably well combined.
Step 2: Slow Cook the Chicken
Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for approximately 3–4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Exact timing depends on the slow cooker and the size of the chicken pieces.
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Remove the cooked chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it into the broth.
If using frozen peas or heavy cream, stir them in at this stage.
Step 4: Prepare the Dumpling Dough
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the milk and melted butter, stirring just until a soft dough forms.
Avoid overmixing, as this can make the dumplings dense.
Step 5: Add the Dumplings
Spoon small portions of the dough over the hot chicken mixture, leaving a little space between them. Keep the dumplings on top of the liquid rather than stirring them into the broth.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for approximately 45–60 minutes, or until the dumplings are puffed up and cooked through. Keep the lid closed as much as possible so the heat and steam remain inside.
Step 6: Check and Serve
Cut into the center of a dumpling to make sure it is cooked through, with no raw dough remaining. If necessary, continue cooking for a few more minutes.
Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning. Ladle the chicken, dumplings, and creamy sauce into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for the Best Chicken and Dumplings
- Use chicken thighs for extra flavor: They tend to stay moist during slow cooking.
- Don’t overwork the dough: Gentle mixing helps produce softer dumplings.
- Keep the lid closed: Steam is essential for cooking the dumplings properly.
- Avoid stirring after adding dumplings: This helps them retain their shape.
- Adjust the consistency: If the broth is too thin, mix a little cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the hot liquid before serving, allowing it to thicken.
- Add cream near the end: This helps preserve its smooth texture.
Easy Variations
Chicken and vegetable dumplings: Add corn, green beans, or extra peas for more vegetables.
Herb dumplings: Mix fresh parsley, chives, or a little thyme into the dumpling dough.
Biscuit dough shortcut: Cut refrigerated biscuit dough into small pieces and arrange them on top of the hot chicken mixture. Follow the package guidance and check that the centers are fully cooked.
Extra creamy version: Add a little more cream or cream cheese near the end of cooking.
Garlic herb version: Add a pinch of onion powder and extra parsley to the dumpling dough for additional flavor.
What to Serve with Chicken and Dumplings
This hearty dish can be served on its own as a complete meal. If you’d like a side dish, try a fresh green salad, steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or sautéed vegetables.
Because the chicken, vegetables, dumplings, and creamy broth are already filling, light side dishes work best.
How to Store and Reheat
Allow leftovers to cool slightly, then refrigerate them in an airtight container within two hours of cooking. Store in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk if the sauce has thickened. Heat until the chicken and dumplings are steaming hot throughout.
The dumplings may absorb some liquid during storage, so the leftovers may be thicker than the freshly cooked dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken?
For the safest results, thaw chicken in the refrigerator before adding it to the slow cooker. Cooking frozen chicken in a slow cooker can keep it at unsafe temperatures for too long.
Can I make this recipe without cream of chicken soup?
Yes. Use additional chicken broth and thicken the sauce with a mixture of flour or cornstarch and cold water. Add a little cream if you want a richer finish.
Why are my dumplings dense?
Overmixing the dough, using old baking powder, or lifting the lid too often can affect the texture. Mix gently and allow enough covered cooking time.
Can I prepare the dumplings ahead of time?
It’s best to mix the dough shortly before cooking the dumplings. This helps the baking powder work effectively and produces a lighter texture.
Final Thoughts
Slow cooker chicken and dumplings is a comforting homemade meal featuring tender chicken, soft dumplings, and a rich, savory broth. With simple ingredients and an easy slow-cooker method, it’s a wonderful option for busy evenings and family dinners.
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