This recipe uses simple ingredients that come together beautifully.
For the Stew
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 2-3 (about 1½ lbs) | Or chicken thighs |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups (960 ml) | Low-sodium recommended |
| Cream of chicken soup | 2 cans (10.5 oz each) | |
| Onion | 1 small, diced | |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
For the Dumplings
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups (250 g) | |
| Baking powder | 1 tablespoon | |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | |
| Butter | ¼ cup (½ stick), cold | Cut into small pieces |
| Milk | ⅔ to ¾ cup (160-180 ml) |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken
Place the chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Make the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup. Pour the mixture over the chicken. Add the onion and garlic.
3. Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
4. Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the sauce and stir to combine.
5. Make the Dumpling Dough
While the chicken cooks, make the dumpling dough. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk until a soft, moist dough forms.
6. Drop the Dumplings
Drop heaping spoonfuls of the dumpling dough over the surface of the stew. Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the dumplings are puffed and cooked through. Do not lift the lid while they are cooking!
7. Serve
Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken and Dumplings
Use Chicken Thighs: For an even richer flavor, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
Don't Overmix the Dumplings: Overmixing the dough can make the dumplings tough.
Keep the Lid On: Resist the urge to lift the lid while the dumplings are cooking—they need the steam to puff up.
Add Vegetables: Stir in frozen peas, carrots, or celery during the last hour of cooking.
Delicious Variations
| Variation | What to Add/Change |
|---|---|
| Herb Dumplings | Add fresh herbs to the dumpling dough. |
| Creamy Chicken and Dumplings | Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end. |
| Vegetable Chicken and Dumplings | Add mixed vegetables. |
| Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings | Use your favorite slow cooker recipe. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but it's best to thaw the chicken first to ensure even cooking.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze this?
Freezing is not recommended, as the dumplings can become dense and the broth can separate.
What should I serve with this?
A simple green salad or crusty bread are wonderful accompaniments.
A Gentle Reminder
This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings is a beautiful reminder that the simplest meals often bring the greatest comfort. It's warm, hearty, and deeply satisfying.
