Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

This comforting Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings has been a household favorite, warming us through chilly evenings and bringing everyone together at the dinner table. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and light, fluffy dumplings feels like a hug in a bowl. It's a dish brimming with hearty satisfaction that's surprisingly easy to assemble.

I vividly remember the first time I made this recipe during a cold winter's day. The aroma filled the entire house, and my family couldn't wait to dig in.

Ingredients

• Salted butter: for a rich, creamy base. Look for high-quality butter without added oils.
• All-purpose flour: as a thickener, creating a luscious broth. Opt for unbleached flour if available.
• Garlic and fresh thyme leaves: for aromatic depth. Fresh options give the best punch of flavor.
• Fresh sage: to enhance the earthy taste profile. Look for leaves that are vibrant and free of blemishes.
• Chicken breasts: for tender protein. Try to use organic, skinless, and boneless cuts.
• Yellow onion, carrots, and celery: to lay the flavorful foundation of the dish.
• Chicken broth: to ensure a savory, rich taste. Go for low-sodium if possible for more control over seasoning.
• Milk: to balance the broth's creaminess. Full-fat milk works best here for richness.
• For the Dumplings:
• All-purpose flour and baking powder: to achieve light, fluffy dumplings.
• Fresh sage: to complement the soup's herbal notes.
• Milk: to bind the dough together. Full-fat works beautifully.
• Black pepper: for a touch of heat.

How To Make Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Sauté the Aromatics:

Melt the butter in the crockpot set to high, and whisk in the flour and garlic. Let this cook gently for 5 to 10 minutes, ensuring the garlic infuses its flavor.

Assemble the Base:

Add the thyme, fresh sage, chicken breasts, and chopped vegetables. Pour in the broth, then season well with salt and black pepper. Cover and cook on low for 3 hours, or switch to high for 1 to 2 hours.

Prepare the Dumplings:

One hour before serving, prepare the dumplings by combining the flour, baking powder, sage, and pepper. Slowly stir in the milk until you have a dough.

Finish the Soup:

Shred the chicken directly in the crockpot and stir in the milk to boost the creaminess. Turn the heat to high.

Add the Dumplings:

Using a spoon, drop generous scoops of dumpling dough into the simmering soup. Cover again and cook on high for 1 to 2 hours, allowing the dumplings to puff up and cook through.

Serve:

Portion the soup into bowls, ensuring each one gets plenty of dumplings. Garnish with fresh thyme, flaky salt, and black pepper, then serve piping hot.

One of my favorite ingredients in this recipe is sage. Its earthy, peppery flavor ties all the elements together, giving the dish a warm and comforting finish.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. If freezing, avoid including the dumplings, as their texture may change during freezing and reheating. Instead, make fresh dumplings when serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer a richer, more tender result. In place of fresh thyme and sage, dried versions can be used, but reduce the amount by half, as dried herbs are more potent.

Serving Suggestions

This crockpot meal is incredibly filling on its own but works beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad to round out the meal. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can also add a delightful burst of savory flavor.

Cultural Context

Chicken and dumplings hold a cherished place in Southern American cuisine, offering a nostalgic taste of home-cooked comfort. This modern adaptation using a crockpot makes it more accessible for today's busy families.

Homemade meals like this one create cherished family traditions. My children always look forward to dumpling day, helping me mix the dough and waiting eagerly by the crockpot.

Recipe FAQs

→ How long does it take to make crockpot chicken and dumplings?

Cooking time varies based on your settings. It typically takes 4-6 hours on high or about 7-8 hours on low to complete this dish.

→ Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken. Simply add the shredded chicken during the final hour of cooking to prevent overcooking.

→ How can I make the dumplings fluffy?

Ensure you don't overmix the dumpling dough, and drop spoonfuls into the hot broth. Allow them to steam and puff up during cooking for the best results.

→ Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute dairy products like butter and milk with plant-based alternatives such as olive oil and almond or oat milk.

→ What vegetables can I add or substitute?

You can include other vegetables such as parsnips, peas, or green beans to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.