Savor the warmth of a classic comfort dish without hours of stove-side babysitting by making Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings. This guide will help you prepare tender chicken stew topped with fluffy dumplings—all simmered together in a slow cooker for a hands-off, cozy meal. Perfect for cooler weather or whenever you crave a hearty dinner with minimal effort.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes/Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless) | 1.5 lbs | Breasts also work, though thighs are more flavorful |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium | Yellow or white |
| Carrots | 2, sliced | Peeled if desired |
| Celery | 2 stalks, sliced | Adds crunch and aromatics |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups | Low-sodium if preferred |
| Cream of chicken soup (canned) | 1 can (10.5 oz) | Can use homemade cream soup or condensed base |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Adjust as needed |
| Optional: Dried thyme or poultry seasoning | 1/2 teaspoon | Adds extra flavor |
For the Dumplings:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes/Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup | Can use a 1:1 gluten-free blend if needed |
| Baking powder | 2 teaspoons | Helps dumplings rise |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | Enhances flavor |
| Milk | 1/2 cup | Or buttermilk for extra tang |
| Butter (melted) | 2 tablespoons | Unsalted recommended |
Step 2: Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
- Chicken Base:
- Place chicken thighs in the slow cooker; season with salt, pepper, and optional thyme/poultry seasoning.
- Add Vegetables:
- Scatter chopped onion, carrots, and celery on top of the chicken.
- Add Soup and Broth:
- Pour in 1 can cream of chicken soup and 4 cups chicken broth. Stir gently to combine.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Stew
- Set the Temperature:
- Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred Chicken:
- Using two forks, shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Make the Dumplings
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Stir in milk and melted butter until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 5: Add Dumplings to the Slow Cooker
- Form Dumplings:
- Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the dough on top of the chicken stew.
- Cover and Cook:
- Switch the slow cooker to HIGH. Cook dumplings for about 30–45 minutes until they’re fluffy and fully cooked through.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Check Dumplings:
- Insert a toothpick or fork into a dumpling; it should come out clean if cooked.
- Plate Up:
- Ladle the chicken, vegetables, and sauce into bowls, topping each with dumplings.
- Optional Finishing Touches:
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley for color.
Step 7: Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
- Dumplings Not Cooking Through:
- Ensure your slow cooker is on HIGH and that dumplings aren’t submerged. They need steam on top to cook properly.
- Thickening the Stew:
- If stew is thin, remove dumplings and set aside. Whisk cornstarch into liquid, then return dumplings once thickened.
- Flavor Boost:
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs to the dumpling mixture.
Step 8: Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use biscuit dough instead of homemade dumplings?
A1: Yes—cut refrigerated biscuit dough into pieces and drop them in. Increase slow cooker time as needed.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A2: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out dumplings.
Q3: What can I serve alongside this dish?
A3: A side salad or steamed vegetables complements the rich stew.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings lets you enjoy all the warmth and comfort of a classic stew with minimal fuss. By layering your ingredients in the crock, mixing a simple dumpling batter, and letting the appliance do the rest, you’ll create a cozy, home-cooked meal that practically cooks itself.
