Hearty Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings: A Comfort Food Classic
Few dishes rival the warmth and comfort of slow cooker chicken and dumplings. This rich, creamy dish combines tender chicken, savory vegetables, and fluffy biscuit dumplings for a meal that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this recipe requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a crowd-pleasing dish your whole family will love.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Effortless Preparation: Let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting.
Rich and Creamy Texture: The combination of soups and chicken broth creates a luscious base.
Comforting and Satisfying: Tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings offer the perfect blend of textures.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this warm and flavorful dish.
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Ingredients and Their Roles
Understanding each ingredient’s purpose ensures a perfectly balanced dish.
For the Chicken and Sauce
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced – Adds subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces – Thighs stay juicy and tender during slow cooking.
1 (10-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup – Provides a rich, creamy base with earthy undertones.
1 (10-ounce) can cheddar cheese soup – Adds a smooth, cheesy richness that enhances the sauce.
2 teaspoons dried thyme – Delivers an earthy, aromatic touch that complements the chicken.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Provides savory depth without overpowering.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Enhances overall flavor with a mild kick.
3 cups chicken broth – Thins the sauce while infusing additional savory notes.
For the Vegetables
1 (16-ounce) bag frozen mixed vegetables, thawed – Adds color, texture, and a variety of nutrients.
For the Dumplings
1 (10-ounce) tube refrigerated flaky biscuit rounds – Transforms into soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Spray your 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Add the diced onion to the bottom, then layer the chicken pieces evenly on top.
Step 2: Create the Sauce
In a medium bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese soup, thyme, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until smooth. Pour this mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Add the chicken broth to the slow cooker, covering the chicken.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Chicken
Cover and cook on HIGH for 4 hours (or LOW for 7-8 hours) until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Stir in the thawed frozen mixed vegetables, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
Step 5: Prepare the Dumplings
On a lightly floured surface, roll out each biscuit round into an oval shape (about 1/4 inch thick). Cut each oval into six even pieces. Arrange the biscuit pieces over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker.
Step 6: Cook the Dumplings
Cover the slow cooker again and cook on HIGH for 45-60 minutes until the biscuit dumplings are fully cooked and no longer doughy.
Step 7: Shred the Chicken and Serve
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the chicken to a platter. Shred it with two forks, then return it to the slow cooker. Gently stir to combine, allowing some dumplings to break apart and thicken the sauce.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken and Dumplings
✅ Use Chicken Thighs: Their higher fat content ensures tender, flavorful meat.
✅ Avoid Overcrowding the Dumplings: Spacing them apart allows them to cook evenly.
✅ Don’t Skip the Thawed Vegetables: Adding frozen veggies directly can cool the slow cooker and affect cooking times.
✅ Add Fresh Herbs for Brightness: Stir in freshly chopped parsley before serving for a burst of color and flavor.
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Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, pair your chicken and dumplings with:
Sweet cornbread for a touch of sweetness.
Crisp green salad to balance the creamy richness.
Steamed broccoli or roasted carrots for added veggies.
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Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings recipe offers everything you love about traditional comfort food with the added convenience of a slow cooker. With minimal prep and effortless cleanup, it’s a must-try for busy families craving something warm and satisfying.
Try this recipe today and enjoy a creamy, savory dish that’
s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Warm, comforting, and oh-so-easy — this is comfort food done right!