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: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup diced carrots; 1 cup diced celery; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 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; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 1/4 cup melted butter

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food that requires minimal effort. Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day.

Created by

Imogen Walker

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:25:14.097Z

There's something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of chicken and dumplings, especially when it requires so little effort. This slow cooker recipe lets the flavors meld beautifully while you spend time on other things.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, savory flavors that warm your soul
Tender chicken that falls apart effortlessly
Fluffy dumplings that soak up all the delicious broth

      

The Comfort of Home-Cooked Meals

There's something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of chicken and dumplings, especially after a long day. This dish embodies the essence of home-cooked meals, bringing together tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings in a rich, savory broth. It's the kind of meal that wraps you in a warm hug, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

The slow cooker makes it easy to enjoy this delightful dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply prepare the ingredients, set your slow cooker, and let it do all the work. You'll come home to an aromatic meal that feels like a labor of love, even though it took minimal effort to create.

Ingredients Matter

Using high-quality chicken and fresh vegetables can elevate this dish to new heights. Opt for organic or free-range chicken thighs for richer flavor and a more satisfying texture. Fresh carrots and celery not only add color but also enhance the nutritional profile of the dish, making it a wholesome choice for dinner.

Don’t overlook the importance of herbs and spices! Dried thyme and rosemary infuse the broth with a fragrant aroma that complements the savory elements of the dish. A pinch of salt and pepper enhances the overall taste, so be sure to adjust according to your preference.

Perfecting Your Dumplings

Dumplings are the crowning glory of this dish, providing a delightful contrast to the tender chicken and vegetables. To achieve the perfect fluffy texture, be careful not to overmix the batter. Combine the ingredients until just incorporated for dumplings that are light and airy.

Feel free to customize your dumpling recipe by adding herbs or spices, such as garlic powder or chopped parsley, to enhance the flavor. Experimenting with different variations can keep this classic dish exciting and new each time you prepare it.

Ingredients

Chicken and Broth

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

Dumplings

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

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before starting the slow cooker.

Instructions

Prepare the Slow Cooker

Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

Cook the Chicken

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

Make the Dumplings

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

Add Dumplings to Slow Cooker

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

Serve

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

Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

FAQs About Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? While chicken breasts can be used, they tend to dry out more easily. Chicken thighs are preferred for their rich flavor and tender texture, making them an ideal choice for slow cooking.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free? To make gluten-free dumplings, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your baking powder is also gluten-free, and follow the same mixing instructions for a delicious alternative.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your chicken and dumplings with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the savory broth. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can also complement the dish, adding freshness to your meal.

For added flavor, consider garnishing your chicken and dumplings with freshly chopped parsley or chives. A sprinkle of black pepper right before serving can elevate the dish, providing a pop of flavor that balances the richness of the broth.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, making for an even tastier meal the next day. Just keep in mind that the dumplings may absorb some of the broth, so you might want to add a splash of chicken broth when reheating.

To reheat, simply place the chicken and dumplings in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, but be sure to cover the container to retain moisture and prevent drying out.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs without thawing. Just increase the cooking time by an hour.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your baking powder is gluten-free.

→ Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add peas, corn, or any of your favorite veggies for extra nutrition.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.