Chicken And Dumplings Soup Slow Cooker Recipe (Guide)

If comfort food had a champion, Chicken and Dumplings Soup would probably be waving the trophy. There’s something profoundly cozy about a warm bowl brimming with tender chicken, soft dumplings, and savory broth. It’s the kind of dish that doesn’t just fill your stomach-it soothes your soul. And when you make it in a slow cooker, you unlock a level of convenience that’s perfect for busy days, lazy weekends, or any time you’re craving a little culinary hug.

In this guide, I’ll take you through a step-by-step slow cooker recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a rich, hearty meal. I’ll also explore ingredient swaps, helpful tips, and creative customization ideas, so you can make it exactly the way you like it. Let’s dive into the comforting world of chicken and dumplings!

Chicken And Dumplings Soup Slow Cooker Recipe

This slow cooker version of the classic dish is designed for minimal effort and maximum flavor. It’s perfect for letting your slow cooker do the heavy lifting while you go about your day. The magic happens as the chicken slowly cooks to tender perfection and the dumplings absorb the savory broth, creating a dish that feels like a warm, edible blanket.

• Cook time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
• Servings: 6-8 generous portions
• Flavor profile: Savory, slightly creamy, and deeply comforting

The key here is patience. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you a soup that’s richer and more satisfying than anything you could whip up in a rush.

Ingredient List

Here’s what you’ll need for a delicious slow cooker chicken and dumplings soup:

• Protein & Base

  • 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra richness)

• Vegetables

  • 3 medium carrots, sliced
  • 3 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced

• Broth & Liquids

  • 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 cup water (optional, adjust based on desired soup thickness)
  • 1/2 cup milk or cream (optional for a creamy twist)

• Seasonings

  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: a pinch of paprika or cayenne for warmth

• Dumplings

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp butter, cold and cubed
  • 3/4 cup milk

Instruction Guide

Let’s break it down step by step so nothing goes wrong:

1. Prep The Slow Cooker Base

   • Add sliced carrots, celery, onion, and garlic to the bottom of your slow cooker.
   • Place chicken on top of the vegetables.

2. Add Liquids & Seasonings

   • Pour in chicken broth (and water if using).
   • Sprinkle in thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.

3. Slow Cook

   • Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until chicken is tender and vegetables are cooked through.

4. Prepare The Dumplings

   • In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Stir in milk to form a soft dough.

5. Add Dumplings To The Soup

   • Shred the cooked chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks.
   • Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough onto the surface of the simmering soup.
   • Cover and cook on high for an additional 30-40 minutes, until dumplings are puffed and cooked through.

6. Optional Creaminess

   • Stir in milk or cream for a richer, creamier consistency before serving.

Ingredient Swaps

No need to stress if you’re missing an ingredient-here are some smart swaps:

• Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut, or turkey breast for a seasonal twist.
• Vegetables: Swap zucchini or parsnips for carrots and celery if you want variation.
• Broth: Vegetable broth works for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly version (omit chicken).
• Dumplings: Try self-rising flour instead of all-purpose + baking powder. For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Creaminess: Coconut milk or oat milk can replace dairy for a subtle, creamy flavor.

Helpful Tips

Here’s where I get a little chatty with advice that can save your soup from common pitfalls:

• Don’t over-stir: When dumplings are cooking, avoid stirring; they puff better when left alone.
• Shredding chicken: Use two forks for tender, evenly shredded pieces.
• Season gradually: Slow cooking concentrates flavors; taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end.
• Consistency: If your soup is too thick after adding dumplings, add a bit more broth or water.

Customization Ideas

Want to get creative? Here’s how you can personalize your slow cooker chicken and dumplings:

• Spicy Twist: Add a dash of cayenne or smoked paprika to the broth.
• Herb Explosion: Fresh rosemary, sage, or tarragon can elevate the flavor profile.
• Cheesy Dumplings: Stir in shredded cheddar or parmesan into the dumpling dough.
• Veggie Boost: Add peas, corn, or green beans in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Gluten-Free or Keto-Friendly: Swap traditional dumplings for cauliflower ’dumplings’ or almond flour dumplings.

FAQs

Can I Use Frozen Chicken In A Slow Cooker Chicken And Dumplings Soup?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it is recommended to allow extra cooking time to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). It is generally safer to use thawed chicken for even cooking.

What Type Of Chicken Is Best For Slow Cooker Chicken And Dumplings Soup?

Bone-in, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for slow cooker recipes because they remain tender and juicy. Chicken breasts can also be used but may become dry if cooked for too long.

Can I Make The Dumplings Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the dumpling dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it is best to add them to the soup just before cooking to prevent them from becoming soggy.

How Long Should I Cook Chicken And Dumplings In A Slow Cooker?

Typically, cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Add dumplings during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking.

Can I Use Store-bought Broth Or Should I Make My Own?

Both options work well. Store-bought broth is convenient, but homemade chicken broth can enhance the flavor and richness of the soup. Adjust seasoning accordingly if using store-bought broth.

How Do I Thicken The Soup If It’s Too Thin?

You can thicken the soup by mixing 2-3 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch with a small amount of cold water and stirring it into the soup. Let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes to achieve the desired consistency.

Can I Use Frozen Vegetables In This Recipe?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be added directly to the slow cooker. They may release additional water, so adjust the cooking liquid as needed. Add more delicate vegetables like peas or spinach towards the end of cooking.

Is It Possible To Make This Recipe In An Instant Pot Instead Of A Slow Cooker?

Yes, you can adapt the recipe for an Instant Pot using the pressure-cook setting for 15-20 minutes for the chicken. Use the sauté function to cook the dumplings separately or add them at the end and use the ’keep warm’ setting.

Can This Soup Be Frozen For Later Use?

Yes, you can freeze the soup without the dumplings for up to 3 months. Add fresh or refrigerated dumplings when reheating to maintain their texture.

How Can I Make This Chicken And Dumplings Soup Healthier?

You can use low-sodium broth, reduce or omit added fats, include more vegetables, and use whole wheat flour for the dumplings. Using skinless chicken and limiting heavy cream or butter also reduces calories and saturated fat.