Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings – The Ultimate Set-It-and-Forget-It Comfort Food

There’s something universally comforting about a bowl of creamy chicken and dumplings—rich, hearty, and soul-warming. When made in a crock pot, this classic Southern dish becomes even more irresistible: tender chicken, buttery dumplings, and savory vegetables, all simmered together for hours to create the perfect one-pot family meal. Whether you’re seeking a cozy weeknight dinner or planning a simple Sunday supper, this Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings recipe delivers comfort by the spoonful.

Why This Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe Works

Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor – Just layer, cook, and enjoy.
All-in-One Meal – Protein, veggies, and dumplings in a single dish.
Budget-Friendly – Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients.
Perfect for Busy Days – Let your slow cooker do all the work.
Customizable – Easily adapt to your family’s taste preferences.

From the first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe has earned its place in so many family kitchens. It’s nostalgic, satisfying, and incredibly easy to pull off.

Ingredients for Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings

To create this dish, you’ll need simple ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen or freezer:

1 onion, diced
6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of celery soup
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
2 cups chicken broth
2 cups frozen mixed vegetables, defrosted
1 can buttermilk refrigerated biscuits
Black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins: diced potatoes, mushrooms, spinach, or a pinch of cayenne for heat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Layer the Base Ingredients

Start by dicing the onion and placing it in the bottom of your crock pot. Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer on top.

2. Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, chopped parsley, poultry seasoning, and a pinch of black pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken.

3. Add Broth and Cook

Pour in chicken broth to cover everything. Place the lid on your crock pot and cook on high for 5 hours (or low for 7–8 hours).

4. Add Vegetables and Shred Chicken

With 1 hour left in the cooking time, stir in the defrosted mixed vegetables. Use two forks to gently shred the chicken in the pot—it will be very tender and fall apart easily. Stir to combine everything.

5. Prepare and Add Dumplings

Open the can of refrigerated buttermilk biscuits. Flatten each biscuit and cut it into 4 strips (or small chunks). Layer them gently on top of the chicken and vegetable mixture.

Pro Tip: Don’t stir the dumplings in right away—let them steam on top for fluffier results.

6. Final Simmer

Cover and continue cooking on high for the final hour, or until the dumplings are puffed and cooked through. Stir gently before serving to distribute the dumplings throughout the creamy mixture.

7. Serve and Garnish

Sprinkle additional chopped parsley on top for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve warm in big bowls, with or without a side.

Tips for Success

Don’t lift the lid while the dumplings are cooking—steam is essential for perfect texture.
Use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat.
Want extra creaminess? Add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese before serving.
Cut dumplings evenly so they cook at the same rate.
Stir the mixture gently at the end to avoid breaking apart dumplings.

Recipe Variations

🧄 Flavor Boosters

Add a clove of minced garlic or a sprinkle of onion powder for more depth.
Stir in dried thyme, rosemary, or sage for herbaceous flavor.

🥕 Vegetable Additions

Swap mixed vegetables for diced carrots, celery, peas, or green beans.
Add fresh baby spinach in the last 15 minutes of cooking for extra nutrients.

🌶 Spicy Kick

Mix in a dash of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes to turn up the heat.

🥣 Homemade Dumplings

Instead of canned biscuits, make your own quick dumpling dough with flour, baking powder, salt, and milk for a classic Southern touch.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but here are some pairing ideas if you’re looking to round it out:

Crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
Buttered corn on the cob
Homemade cornbread or garlic toast
A glass of sweet iced tea or apple cider

Storage & Reheating

🧊 Refrigerate

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
The flavor improves after a day—perfect for meal prep!

❄️ Freeze

For best texture, freeze the chicken and vegetable mixture only. Add fresh biscuits when reheating.
Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

🔥 Reheat

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave.
Add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Absolutely. Just reduce the cooking time and add shredded rotisserie chicken when you add the vegetables.

❓ Can I use frozen biscuits?

It’s best to thaw frozen biscuits before adding, or they may not cook through properly.

❓ Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Use an 8-quart slow cooker and increase cooking time by 30–60 minutes.

❓ What’s the best way to tell if dumplings are done?

They should be puffy and no longer doughy in the center. A toothpick inserted into a dumpling should come out clean.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings is a time-tested recipe that brings joy and warmth to every bite. It’s the kind of meal you crave after a long day—creamy, savory, hearty, and deeply comforting. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this slow cooker version makes it easier than ever to enjoy a Southern classic without standing over the stove.

Perfect for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or whenever you’re in the mood for a bowl of homestyle happiness, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.