There’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm bowl of Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings. It’s cozy, hearty, and brings back the nostalgia of homemade comfort food—without the hours spent in the kitchen. This slow cooker version takes all the traditional goodness of the classic dish and simplifies it, creating a one-pot meal that’s rich in flavor, creamy in texture, and downright irresistible.
Whether you're feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe will win hearts every single time. The tender, shredded chicken, fluffy dumplings, and creamy broth come together in a beautiful harmony that tastes like it simmered all day—because it did.
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Ingredients & Their Purpose
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in delivering the perfect bowl of Chicken and Dumplings:
1 onion, chopped – Adds a sweet, aromatic base that enhances the overall depth of flavor.
1 1/4 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts – The lean protein that becomes tender and juicy after slow cooking.
1 tsp. dried oregano – Brings a subtle earthiness and complements the other savory ingredients.
Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper – Essential for seasoning and drawing out the natural flavors.
2 (10.5-oz.) cans cream of chicken soup – The creamy backbone of the dish, providing richness and body.
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth – Thins out the soup while still maintaining bold chicken flavor.
4 sprigs fresh thyme – Infuses the dish with a fragrant, woodsy note during the slow cooking process.
1 bay leaf – Adds a mild depth of flavor that’s essential for a truly savory base.
2 stalks celery, chopped – Offers crunch and classic soup flavor, enhancing texture.
2 large carrots, peeled and chopped – Sweetness and color for a visually appealing and balanced bite.
1 cup frozen peas, thawed – Introduces a pop of green and natural sweetness.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Deepens the savory complexity of the dish.
1 (16.3-oz.) can refrigerated biscuits – The “dumplings” that bake up fluffy and tender, soaking up all the delicious broth.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Build Your Flavor Base
Scatter the chopped onion in the bottom of your slow cooker. This creates a foundation that infuses the chicken with aromatic goodness as it cooks.
Step 2: Add and Season the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on top of the onions. Sprinkle evenly with dried oregano, salt, and pepper to season the meat directly.
Step 3: Pour in Liquids and Aromatics
Add the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth. Stir gently if you like, then nestle in the thyme sprigs and bay leaf. These herbs will slow-cook into the broth, adding layers of flavor.
Step 4: Slow Cook Until Chicken is Tender
Cover and cook on High for 3 hours (or Low for 6 hours) until the chicken is fork-tender and fully cooked.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. It should come apart easily.
Step 6: Add Vegetables and Garlic
Stir in the chopped celery, carrots, peas, and minced garlic. These cook quickly and retain their texture better when added after the chicken is done.
Step 7: Add the Biscuits
Cut or tear the refrigerated biscuit dough into bite-sized pieces and drop them on top of the mixture. Gently press them down so they’re partially submerged.
Step 8: Cook Until Dumplings Are Fluffy
Continue to cook on High for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring every 30 minutes. The biscuits will expand and become soft dumplings, absorbing the savory broth.
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Why Everyone Loves This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
This dish is beloved for its effortless preparation, comforting flavor, and family-friendly appeal. It takes minimal prep and delivers maximum taste, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. Even picky eaters can’t resist the creamy, savory sauce and those pillowy dumplings.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness, especially with the canned soup.
Avoid over-stirring once the biscuits are in—they need space to fluff up.
Fresh herbs make a difference, but dried thyme can be substituted in a pinch.
Pre-thaw peas to ensure even cooking and a bright green color.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair this hearty dish with:
A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette for balance.
Crusty bread or garlic toast to mop up the creamy broth.
A light dessert like lemon bars or fruit salad to finish the meal on a fresh note.
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Conclusion: Why You Need This Recipe in Your Life
This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe combines everything you love about homemade comfort food with the convenience of a slow cooker. It’s rich, filling, and flavorful—without the stress. With just a few simple steps and pantry-friendly ingredients, you’ll have a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
If you're searching for the best chicken and dumplings recipe that delivers every time, this is it. Try it once, and it will become a staple in your kitchen. Pin it, share it, cook it—and savor every bite.
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