Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings: Best Family Comfort Food
Looking for the perfect hearty meal that is both family-friendly and easy to prepare? Look no further than slow cooker chicken and dumplings—a comfort food classic that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. This recipe combines tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and wholesome vegetables simmered in a savory broth for a satisfying and cozy dinner. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, this dish is a no-fail option for a weeknight meal that’s full of flavor and warmth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty Meal: Packed with tender chicken, soft dumplings, and a medley of vegetables in a delicious broth.
- Easy Recipe: The slow cooker does most of the work, making this an ideal easy dinner for any night of the week.
- Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults will love this satisfying comfort food.
- Versatile: You can customize the recipe to suit your taste and make it healthier by tweaking the ingredients.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
- 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Chicken and Dumplings in a Slow Cooker
1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker along with diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery. Sprinkle the thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the top. Pour in the chicken broth and set the slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
2: Shred the Chicken
After cooking, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
3: Make the Dumplings
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Add the milk and melted butter, stirring until just combined. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the top of the soup in the slow cooker.
4: Cook the Dumplings
Turn the slow cooker to high and cook the dumplings for 30-45 minutes, until they are fluffy and cooked through. The broth will thicken slightly as the dumplings cook, creating a rich and hearty soup.
5: Serve
Ladle the slow cooker chicken and dumplings into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your delicious, warm comfort food!
Cooking Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
- Fluffier Dumplings: Be careful not to overmix the dumpling dough, as this can make them dense. Mix just until the ingredients come together.
- Healthier Option: Swap out the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour and use low-sodium chicken broth to create a healthy slow cooker chicken and dumplings version.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add extra vegetables like peas or corn for more flavor and nutrition.
- Make It Thicker: If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the slow cooker before adding the dumplings.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a light garden salad. Serve with warm crusty bread to soak up the rich broth, making it an even more satisfying meal.
Cultural Context of Chicken and Dumplings as Comfort Food
Chicken and dumplings is a beloved dish in many cultures, with its origins rooted in Southern U.S. cuisine. Historically, it has been seen as a comfort food because of its simple yet satisfying ingredients that were often staples in many households. The slow cooker version is a modern twist, making it easier than ever to enjoy this timeless dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Final Thoughts
This easy slow cooker chicken and dumplings recipe is perfect for those looking for a simple yet flavorful weeknight meal. The tender chicken, savory broth, and homemade dumplings come together to create a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s also incredibly versatile—whether you’re looking for a healthier option or want to add your favorite vegetables, this recipe can easily be adapted to suit your needs. So, next time you’re craving comfort food, give this recipe a try and see why it’s one of the best slow cooker chicken and dumplings recipes around!