Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings

Name: Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup chopped carrots; 1 cup chopped celery; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 4 tablespoons butter, melted

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food. Just toss the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work while you enjoy a cozy day at home.

Created by

Margaret Hill

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:22:15.870Z

Nothing beats the warmth and satisfaction of a hearty bowl of chicken and dumplings. This recipe allows you to enjoy all the flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few fresh ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a meal that your family will love.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
Tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
Deliciously fluffy dumplings that soak up the savory broth

      

The Comfort of Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is not just a method; it’s a way to create heartwarming meals with minimal effort. The Set-It-and-Forget-It approach allows you to prepare a dish that will fill your home with enticing aromas, making it the perfect option for a cozy day indoors. As the flavors meld together, you can relax or tackle other tasks without worrying about the stove. This recipe encapsulates the essence of comfort food, combining tender chicken with hearty vegetables and fluffy dumplings to create a satisfying meal that warms the soul.

One of the beauties of slow cooking is the ability to enhance flavors over time. As the chicken simmers in the broth, it absorbs the rich tastes of the herbs and vegetables, resulting in a dish that is not only delicious but also deeply satisfying. The slow cooker allows for a gentle cooking process, ensuring that the chicken remains moist and flavorful, while the dumplings provide a delightful textural contrast. This harmony of flavors and textures is what makes slow cooker chicken and dumplings a family favorite.

Customizing Your Dumplings

While the classic dumpling recipe is undeniably delicious, you can easily make it your own by incorporating different ingredients or flavors. Consider adding herbs like parsley or chives to the dumpling mix for an extra burst of freshness. Alternatively, you can fold in shredded cheese or cooked bacon to elevate the flavor profile and make the dumplings even more indulgent. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the dish to your personal taste preferences or dietary needs.

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can experiment with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends. These substitutions can provide a different texture and flavor, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy this comforting dish. Additionally, consider adding seasonal vegetables to the slow cooker, such as peas or green beans, to round out the meal with additional nutrients and vibrant colors.

Tips for Perfect Chicken and Dumplings

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Broth

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup chopped carrots
1 cup chopped celery
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dumplings

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
4 tablespoons butter, melted

Make sure to gather all ingredients before starting for the best results!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken and Broth

In your slow cooker, combine the chicken thighs, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Cook the Mixture

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Make the Dumplings

In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk and melted butter until just combined.

Add Dumplings to the Slow Cooker

After the chicken is done cooking, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter on top of the chicken and broth. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the dumplings are fluffy and cooked, serve the chicken and dumplings warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy your comforting meal!

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chicken and dumplings can be a delightful treat for lunch or dinner the next day. To store, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days or freeze for up to three months. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to restore moisture.

If you freeze the dish, consider freezing the dumplings separately to maintain their texture. This way, you can enjoy the chicken and broth as a soup or stew and prepare fresh dumplings when you're ready to serve. This flexibility ensures that you can savor this comforting dish in various forms.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement your Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings, consider serving a crisp side salad or steamed greens. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish. Additionally, crusty bread or biscuits can be a perfect accompaniment, allowing you to soak up the savory broth.

For beverage pairings, a light white wine or a hearty cider can enhance the dining experience. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, consider serving sparkling water with a slice of lemon for a refreshing touch. These pairings will round out your meal and make it even more enjoyable for you and your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs are more flavorful and tender when cooked in a slow cooker.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add peas or corn for extra color and nutrition.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken and dumplings for up to 2 months. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.