Hey y'all! If you're craving a bowl of pure comfort, this Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings for Cozy Family Nights is just what you need. With juicy chicken, pillowy dumplings, and a creamy, savory broth, this recipe is perfect for chilly evenings, busy weekdays, or any time you want to gather the family around the table. It's easy, hands-off, and sure to become a favorite. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings for Cozy Family Nights
- Effortless: Simple prep and let your slow cooker do all the work—no constant stirring required!
- Ultimate Comfort Food: The rich, creamy broth and tender dumplings make every bite cozy and satisfying.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore the classic flavors and soft textures.
- Flexible: Perfect for meal prep, weeknights, or even potlucks and gatherings.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more quality time with your loved ones.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings for Cozy Family Nights
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3-4 breasts)
- 1 cup chopped carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
- 1 cup chopped celery (about 2 stalks)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup frozen peas
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough, cut into 1-inch pieces (or homemade biscuit dough)
- 2 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions: How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings for Cozy Family Nights
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker Base
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Add chopped carrots, celery, onion, and minced garlic on top. Sprinkle in thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and add the cream of chicken soup, stirring gently to combine.
Step 2: Slow Cook the Chicken and Vegetables
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken breasts to a plate, shred them with two forks, and return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Stir in the frozen peas and heavy cream.
Step 4: Add the Dumplings
Place the biscuit dough pieces directly into the slow cooker, gently pressing them down so they submerge slightly. Drizzle melted butter over the top. Cover and cook on high for 1 hour, or until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Give everything a gentle stir. Ladle the creamy chicken and dumplings into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve piping hot!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 7 hours (on low) or 5 hours (on high)
Notes for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings for Cozy Family Nights
- For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free biscuit dough or make homemade dumplings with gluten-free flour.
- Stir the dumplings gently halfway through the last hour to prevent sticking.
- If you want a thicker broth, mix 2 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoon cold water and stir in during the last 30 minutes of cooking (learn more about thickening soups).
Variations on Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings for Cozy Family Nights
- Herb Dumplings: Add 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (like dill or chives) to the biscuit dough.
- Veggie-Packed: Stir in diced potatoes or mushrooms for extra heartiness.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for a little heat.
Required Equipment for Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
- 6-quart slow cooker
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Storage Instructions for Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings for Cozy Family Nights
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed. Freezing is not recommended, as dumplings may become mushy.
Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
- Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
- Pair with warm crusty bread for dipping into the creamy broth.
- Finish with a sprinkle of extra herbs, like fresh thyme or chives, for a burst of flavor.
Pro Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings for Cozy Family Nights
- Don’t peek! Keep the lid closed during cooking to maintain consistent heat and ensure fluffy dumplings (see common slow cooker mistakes).
- Use freshly cracked black pepper for the best flavor boost.
- Cut the biscuit dough evenly so the dumplings cook at the same rate.
FAQ – Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings for Cozy Family Nights
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- Absolutely! Chicken thighs add even more flavor and remain extra juicy in the slow cooker.
- Can I make this ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the base ahead and chill overnight. Add biscuit dough and finish cooking the next day.
- Can I use homemade dumplings?
- Of course—feel free to use your favorite homemade biscuit or dumpling recipe if you prefer.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups sliced carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough, cut into pieces
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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1Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
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2Cover and cook on low for 5 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
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3Remove the chicken from the slow cooker, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
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4Stir in the frozen peas and heavy cream. Top the mixture with biscuit dough pieces, spreading them evenly.
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5Cover and cook on high for an additional 1 hour, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
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6Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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