This comforting chicken and dumplings dish is a breeze to make with your trusty crockpot! Just toss in chicken, cream, and veggies, then top it with tasty canned biscuits.
You won’t believe how simple it is! I love that I can set it and forget it, letting the crockpot do all the work while I enjoy some time on the couch. Perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I usually go for boneless, skinless thighs for added flavor and moisture. However, chicken breasts work just fine and are leaner. You can even use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time!
Veggies: Carrots and celery are classic in this dish, but feel free to mix things up! Peas add a lovely color, or try green beans or corn instead. Frozen mixed vegetables can be an easy shortcut too!
Canned Biscuit Dough: The refrigerated biscuit dough makes this recipe so simple! If you can’t find it or want a homemade option, you can make your own biscuit dough from scratch. Gluten-free biscuit mixes are also available for dietary needs!
Heavy Cream: I love adding heavy cream for richness. If you want a lighter option, half-and-half or even milk can work, though the dish will be less creamy.
How Can I Get the Chicken Just Right in the Crockpot?
The key to perfectly cooked chicken is to avoid overcooking! Make sure to check the chicken after about 3 hours on high or 6 hours on low. It should be tender enough to shred with forks.
- Start with raw chicken in the crockpot; it cooks beautifully and locked in moisture.
- If you prefer, you can sear it in a pan for added flavor before placing it in the crockpot.
- Always shred the chicken back into the mixture for maximum flavor in every bite!
Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings with Canned Biscuits
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
For the Dumplings:
- 1 can (16 ounces) refrigerated biscuit dough (such as Pillsbury biscuits)
For Creaminess:
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)
Time Needed:
This cozy dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then needs either 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. After cooking the main ingredients, you’ll add the biscuit dough and cook for an additional 30-45 minutes. In total, you’ll need around 7-8 hours for a delicious home-cooked meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Layer the Ingredients:
First, place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of your crockpot. Then, add diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery right on top of the chicken. This creates a flavorful base for your dish!
2. Add the Broth and Seasoning:
Pour in the chicken broth to cover the ingredients. Now, sprinkle the dried thyme, parsley, and add some salt and pepper to season. It’s simple but full of flavor!
3. Let it Cook:
Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is super tender, and the veggies are cooked through. I love the smell that fills the kitchen during this time!
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Place the shredded chicken back into the crockpot to soak up all those lovely flavors.
5. Stir in Cream and Peas:
Now, add in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) to make it nice and creamy. If you like peas, this is a great time to toss them in too!
6. Thicken the Mixture (Optional):
If you want a thicker consistency, mix the cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl. Stir this into the crockpot mixture. Let this cook for an extra 15-20 minutes to thicken up a bit.
7. Add the Dumplings:
Next, take your canned biscuit dough and cut it into quarters or halves, depending on how big you want your dumplings. Place the biscuit pieces on top of the chicken mixture in the crockpot.
8. Cook the Dumplings:
Cover the crockpot again and cook on high for 30-45 minutes. The biscuits should be fluffy and cooked through. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is cooked, serve the warm chicken, vegetables, broth, and fluffy biscuits in bowls. Enjoy this cozy, comforting meal with your loved ones!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to increase the cooking time by an hour or two. If using frozen chicken breasts or thighs, it’s a good idea to cook on low for 7-8 hours to ensure it cooks through thoroughly.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare all the ingredients and store them in the fridge overnight. Just add everything to the crockpot in the morning and set it to cook. It’s a great option for busy days!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to revive the creamy texture.
What Can I Use Instead of Canned Biscuits?
If you prefer homemade biscuits, you can make your own dough using flour, baking powder, milk, and butter. Alternatively, you can use frozen biscuit dough or even dumpling mix tailored for cooking in broth!