Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
Introduction
There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about a bowl of chicken and dumplings — a meal that warms the soul and fills the kitchen with comforting aromas. This slow cooker version brings that cozy, home-cooked flavor to your table with minimal effort. Tender chicken pieces simmer in a creamy broth, topped with soft, fluffy dumplings for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Ingredients & Quantities
For the Chicken Base:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 can (about 14.5 oz / 411 g) chicken broth
2 small cans (10.5 oz / 298 g each) cream of chicken soup
1 cup (240 ml) milk
2 teaspoons garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Dumplings (optional homemade version):
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup milk
2 tablespoons butter, melted
(Or use refrigerated biscuit dough for convenience.)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Base:
Place the cubed chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker.
2. Add the Creamy Mixture:
In a bowl, whisk together chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour over the chicken.
3. Cook:
Cover and cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the sauce is thick and flavorful.
4. Add the Dumplings:
If using biscuit dough, cut each biscuit into quarters and drop them into the slow cooker.
If using homemade dumplings, mix flour, baking powder, salt, milk, and butter to form a soft dough. Drop spoonfuls on top of the simmering mixture.
5. Final Cooking:
Cover and cook for 1 more hour on High, until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through (they should not be doughy in the center).
6. Serve Hot:
Spoon into bowls, making sure each serving has tender chicken, creamy gravy, and a few dumplings.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Chicken and dumplings originated in the Southern United States, where resourceful home cooks combined simple pantry ingredients to stretch meals during lean times. The dish soon became a symbol of comfort, family, and tradition — often served at Sunday dinners or gatherings. Its roots also trace back to European settlers who brought similar “stew and dumpling” concepts, adapting them to the ingredients available in early America.
Description
The result is a bowl of pure comfort — tender chicken enveloped in a velvety, savory gravy, crowned with pillowy dumplings that soak up the creamy sauce. Each bite delivers warmth, richness, and the kind of homemade flavor that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Optional Additions
Vegetables: Add diced carrots, celery, and peas for extra texture and nutrition.
Herbs: Fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary enhance the aroma and flavor.
Spices: A pinch of paprika or onion powder can deepen the flavor profile.
Cheese: Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar for a creamy twist.
Tips for Success
Don’t over-stir once the dumplings are added — this can make them dense.
For thicker broth, uncover for the last 15 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.
Use low-sodium broth and season at the end to control saltiness.
Always check that dumplings are fully cooked before serving — they should be fluffy and not doughy inside.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 1 cup)
Calories: ~340 kcal
Protein: 32 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fat: 14 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sodium: 760 mg
(Values may vary depending on ingredients and dumpling choice.)
Conclusion and Recommendation
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings is a meal that embodies comfort, convenience, and heartwarming flavor. Perfect for busy days or cold evenings, it’s the kind of dish that makes everyone feel at home. Pair it with a green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While rich and creamy, this dish can still fit into a wholesome diet. Use low-fat milk, reduced-sodium broth, and whole-wheat dumplings for a lighter version. It’s a beautiful example of how comfort food can be both indulgent and nourishing — proof that a healthy lifestyle can include your favorite cozy classics.