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: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 1/4 cup melted butter

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2025-12-28T16:22:11.358Z

This comforting dish combines tender chicken with fluffy dumplings in a rich broth, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Effortlessly delicious with minimal prep time
Hearty and satisfying for the whole family
The slow cooker does all the work for you

      

The Comfort of Home-Cooked Meals

There's something inherently comforting about home-cooked meals, especially when they come together with ease. This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings recipe brings the warmth of a kitchen filled with delicious aromas, creating a cozy atmosphere for family gatherings or quiet evenings at home. The combination of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings will remind you of cherished family traditions and cozy winter nights.

Slow cooking transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful masterpiece, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time. As you prepare this dish, you’ll appreciate how the slow cooker handles the heavy lifting, giving you more time to relax or tend to other tasks while your meal cooks to perfection.

A Meal for Any Occasion

Whether you're feeding a crowd or simply looking for a comforting meal after a long day, this recipe fits the bill. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or even as a make-ahead dish for potlucks and family dinners. With just a few minutes of prep, you can set your slow cooker and walk away, allowing the magic to happen while you go about your day.

The versatility of chicken and dumplings means you can customize it to your liking. Add your favorite vegetables or spices, or even swap the chicken for other proteins. This dish adapts well to your family’s preferences, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.

Health Benefits of Chicken and Dumplings

Chicken is a lean protein source that provides essential nutrients while keeping your meal balanced. The addition of vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions not only enhances the flavor profile but also boosts the nutritional value of your dish. These vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals, making this slow cooker meal a wholesome choice for any family.

Moreover, making this dish from scratch allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring you can avoid preservatives and artificial flavors often found in store-bought alternatives. By preparing your chicken and dumplings at home, you’re not just creating a delicious meal; you’re also prioritizing your family's health and well-being.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Dumpling Ingredients

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

Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker for a warm, comforting meal.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker and season with garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Add Vegetables and Broth

Add the diced carrots, celery, and onion to the slow cooker, then pour in the chicken broth.

Cook the Chicken

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender.

Make the Dumplings

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

Add Dumplings

After 6 hours, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture on top of the chicken and broth. Cover and cook for another 30 minutes.

Serve

Once the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through, serve hot and enjoy!

Enjoy your homemade chicken and dumplings!

Tips for Perfect Dumplings

To achieve the perfect dumpling texture, be careful not to overmix the batter. Gently combine the ingredients until just blended for light and fluffy dumplings. If you prefer a heartier dumpling, consider adding a bit of shredded cheese or herbs to the mixture for an extra flavor boost.

Another trick is to ensure your slow cooker is properly preheated before adding the dumplings. This helps them to rise and cook evenly, resulting in a delightful contrast to the tender chicken and broth beneath.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe is great for meal prep! You can chop the vegetables and season the chicken a day ahead. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, so when you're ready to cook, all you need to do is combine the ingredients in the slow cooker. This not only saves time but also makes weeknight cooking a breeze.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep the dumplings from drying out.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your chicken and dumplings with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dumplings and broth. Alternatively, a side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to your bowl. This can elevate the dish and provide an exciting twist that will thrill your taste buds.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well, but thighs tend to be more flavorful and stay moist.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftover chicken and dumplings. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

Substitute whole wheat flour for the dumplings and use low-sodium chicken broth.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add peas, corn, or green beans for extra nutrition.