Hearty Crock Pot Chicken and Cheese Dumplings: The Ultimate Comfort Food

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of comfort food to make any day feel a little brighter. And when that comfort food is as easy and delicious as our Crock Pot Chicken and Cheese Dumplings, it’s an instant classic! This recipe, cooked low and slow in your trusty slow cooker, combines tender chicken, savory vegetables, a rich, creamy broth, and the star of the show: fluffy, cheesy dumplings that melt in your mouth. It’s a dish that brings back childhood memories for many, offering a hearty, satisfying meal with minimal fuss, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend gathering.

If you’re anything like me, Chicken and Dumplings holds a special place in your heart. It’s been a family favorite since I was a child, and over the years, I’ve experimented with countless variations. This Crock Pot version, featuring delectable cheese dumplings, has quickly risen to the top of my list. The convenience of a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, returning hours later to a fragrant, perfectly cooked meal. Get ready to dive into a batch of this incredibly flavorful and truly comforting Crock Pot Chicken and Cheese Dumpling recipe!

Crock Pot Chicken and Cheese Dumplings in bowl with spoon holding some up.

Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Chicken and Cheese Dumplings Recipe

This recipe isn’t just another slow cooker meal; it’s a culinary experience designed for ease, flavor, and pure satisfaction. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your regular rotation:

Effortless Preparation: The beauty of the slow cooker means most of the work happens while you go about your day. A little initial sautéing, and then your slow cooker takes over, transforming simple ingredients into a gourmet-tasting meal.
Unbeatable Flavor: Slow cooking allows the flavors of the chicken, vegetables, and herbs to meld together perfectly, creating a deep, rich broth. The savory chicken and aromatic vegetables are perfectly complemented by the tender, cheesy dumplings.
Ultimate Comfort Food: There’s something inherently comforting about a warm, hearty stew topped with soft dumplings. It’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a little pick-me-up.
Customizable to Your Taste: This recipe is incredibly versatile. Want more veggies? Add them! Prefer a different type of cheese? Go for it! It’s easy to adapt to what you have on hand or what your family loves.
Simple Ingredients: You won’t find any obscure items here. This recipe relies on everyday pantry staples and fresh produce, making it accessible and budget-friendly.
Family-Friendly: A dish that appeals to both kids and adults, it’s a wholesome meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. The tender chicken and fluffy dumplings are always a hit.

Expert Tips and Tricks for Perfect Crock Pot Chicken and Cheese Dumplings

Achieving the perfect pot of chicken and dumplings is easier than you think with these helpful hints:

Choosing Your Liquid Base: I adore the rich creaminess that heavy cream brings to this recipe. However, if you’re aiming for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor, feel free to substitute with evaporated milk or even regular milk. Evaporated milk provides a lovely, slightly thicker consistency, while regular milk will yield a lighter broth.
The Secret to Melty Cheese: For the best texture and melt, always opt for freshly shredded cheese. Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can prevent them from melting smoothly, resulting in a grainy texture. Sharp cheddar is a classic choice, but experiment with Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a blend for different flavor profiles.
Vegetable Variations: My go-to trio includes carrots, peas, and celery, which add color, texture, and essential nutrients. But don’t hesitate to customize! Onions, mushrooms, green beans, corn, or even diced potatoes are fantastic additions. Just be mindful of cooking times; harder vegetables like potatoes might need to be added earlier.
Adjusting Cook Time: The beauty of a slow cooker is its flexibility. If you’re planning ahead for a full day out, cook on low for 6 hours. For a quicker turnaround, set it on high for 4 hours. Both methods yield wonderfully tender chicken and a flavorful broth.
Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary impart a vibrant, aromatic depth that’s hard to beat. If fresh isn’t available, dried herbs are a perfectly acceptable substitute. Remember the conversion rule: one teaspoon of dried herbs equals one tablespoon of fresh herbs. For parsley, while fresh is ideal for garnish and a bright flavor, dried can also be used, especially in the dumpling mixture.
Chicken Options: This recipe is incredibly adaptable to your chicken preference. You can use raw boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced into chunks) for a leaner option, or for ultimate convenience and a head start on flavor, shred a store-bought rotisserie chicken. If using rotisserie chicken, add it during the last hour of cooking the base, just before adding the peas and cream, to prevent it from becoming dry.
Dealing with Dumpling Clumping: It’s common for the dumplings to appear as one large mass floating on top after cooking. Don’t worry! This is perfectly normal. Before serving, simply use a spoon or ladle to gently break up the dumplings into individual, bite-sized pieces. They’ll still be wonderfully soft and cheesy.
Achieving the Right Thickness: The roux at the beginning helps thicken the stew, but if you prefer a thicker consistency, especially after adding the cream and dumplings, you can create a cornstarch slurry. Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth, then whisk it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking the dumplings.

Bowl of Crock Pot Chicken and Cheese Dumplings in bowl on plate pinterest image.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Delicious Recipe

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this comforting masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need (full recipe details at the bottom of the post):

For the Chicken and Vegetable Base:

Butter: For sautéing the aromatics and forming the roux.
Onion & Garlic: The foundational aromatics that build the flavor base.
All-purpose flour: Used to create the roux, which thickens the stew.
Chicken broth: The main liquid component, providing rich chicken flavor.
Celery & Carrots: Classic mirepoix vegetables that add sweetness and texture.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for ease, or use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Fresh Herbs (Thyme, Rosemary, Bay Leaves): Essential for a fragrant and deeply flavored broth. Dried can be substituted.
Peas: Added at the end for a pop of color and sweetness.
Fresh Parsley (optional): For a fresh finish and visual appeal.
Heavy Cream: Adds luxurious richness and a creamy texture to the stew.

For the Cheesy Dumplings:

All-purpose flour: The base for your tender dumplings.
Baking powder: The leavening agent that makes the dumplings light and fluffy.
Cold Salted Butter: Crucial for flaky, tender dumplings; ensures the butter doesn’t melt too quickly.
Milk: Binds the dumpling dough together.
Freshly Shredded Cheddar Cheese: The star ingredient, providing delicious cheesy pockets within the dumplings.
Finely Chopped Parsley (optional): Adds a touch of freshness and color to the dumplings themselves.

Ingredients needed to make Crock Pot Chicken and Cheese Dumplings

Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting Your Crock Pot Chicken and Cheese Dumplings

Follow these simple steps to create a truly unforgettable meal:

Preparing the Flavorful Chicken Base:

Sauté the Aromatics: In a sauté pan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic cloves. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).
Create the Roux: Sprinkle 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously for about 1 minute until the flour is fully incorporated and forms a thick paste, or “roux.” This roux is key to thickening your stew.
Add Broth to Roux: Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens into a smooth, gravy-like consistency. Remove from heat.
Load the Slow Cooker: Add the sliced celery, diced carrots, and cubed chicken breasts to your slow cooker. Place the sprigs of fresh thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves on top.
Combine Liquids: Pour the remaining 3 cups of chicken broth into the slow cooker, followed by the onion and garlic roux mixture. Stir everything gently to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on high for 4 hours, or on low for 6 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through, and the vegetables are soft.
Final Touches for the Base: Once cooking time is complete, carefully remove and discard the bay leaves, and the stalks of rosemary and thyme. Stir in 1 cup of frozen peas and 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh parsley (if using). Finally, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir until well combined. Cover the slow cooker again to keep it warm while you prepare the dumplings. (Optional: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Whisk this slurry into the slow cooker and allow it to thicken as the dumplings cook.)

Making and Cooking the Cheesy Dumplings:

Combine Dry Dumpling Ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together 1½ cups of all-purpose flour and 2½ teaspoons of baking powder.
Cut in the Butter: Add 4 tablespoons of cold, cubed salted butter to the flour mixture. Using a fork, a pastry blender, or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. It’s crucial to keep the butter cold to ensure light, fluffy dumplings; avoid overworking it or letting it melt.
Add Wet Ingredients & Cheese: Pour in ½ cup of milk and mix until just combined. The dough should be slightly sticky; if it’s too dry, add an additional tablespoon of milk at a time until the desired consistency is reached. Fold in 1 cup of freshly shredded cheddar cheese and 2 teaspoons of finely chopped parsley (if using) until evenly distributed.
Add Dumplings to Slow Cooker: Drop large spoonfuls of the cheddar dumpling dough onto the hot chicken broth mixture in the slow cooker. Gently press each dumpling under the broth just until it is covered. This helps them seal and cook evenly.
Finish Cooking: Re-cover the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional hour, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy. You can test for doneness by gently poking one with a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Serve and Enjoy: Before serving, gently break up any dumplings that may have stuck together during cooking. Ladle generous portions into bowls and enjoy your hearty, homemade Crock Pot Chicken and Cheese Dumplings!

How to Store and Reheat Your Chicken and Cheese Dumplings

Refrigerator Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Ensure the dish has cooled completely before transferring it to the container to prevent condensation and bacterial growth.
Reheating: For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through. You can also gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk if the sauce has become too thick.
Freezing Not Recommended: Unfortunately, this dish does not freeze well. Dairy products like cream can separate and become grainy upon thawing, and the dumplings tend to become mushy and lose their desirable texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to some common questions about making Crock Pot Chicken and Cheese Dumplings:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for an even juicier and more flavorful result. They also tend to be more forgiving with longer cooking times.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian? While this specific recipe features chicken, you could adapt it by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth. You might also want to add more hearty vegetables like mushrooms, potatoes, or chickpeas to make it a substantial meal.
My stew is too thin/thick. How can I fix it? If too thin, create a cornstarch slurry (2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water) and whisk it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. If too thick, simply stir in additional chicken broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
Can I prepare the dumplings ahead of time? You can prepare the dumpling dough a few hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to add the dumplings fresh to the slow cooker for the optimal texture.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs? As noted in the tips, dried herbs are a fine substitute. Use 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every 1 tablespoon of fresh.

Craving More Comfort Food Recipes?

If you loved this hearty slow cooker meal, you might enjoy these other delicious recipes:

Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings (Classic)
Chicken and Drop Dumplings
Ground Beef and Dumplings
White Chicken Chili with Cornbread Dumplings
Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken and Dumplings Casserole
Crock Pot Angel Chicken
Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken
Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy
Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan
Crock Pot Chicken and Noodles
Crock Pot Crack Chicken
Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Crock Pot Rotisserie Chicken
Crock Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs
Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie
75 Fall Crock Pot Dinner Recipes

Close up of Chicken and Cheese Dumpling in bowl on plate square image

Crock Pot Chicken and Cheese Dumplings – Recipe Details

Cooked low and slow, this tasty Crock Pot Chicken and Cheese Dumplings is a deliciously flavorful recipe that is made with simple ingredients and is pure comfort food!

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 6 hours

Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes

Servings: 6

Author: Brandie Skibinski

Ingredients

For the Chicken Base:

3 tablespoons salted butter
½ cup diced onion
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 cups chicken broth (one 32-ounce carton), divided use
½ cup sliced celery
1 cup diced carrots
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced into chunks)
2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or ½ teaspoon dried rosemary)
2 bay leaves
1 cup frozen peas
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley, optional)
1 cup heavy cream

For Cheddar Dumplings:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
4 tablespoons cold salted butter, cut into small cubes
½ cup milk (more if needed)
1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese
2 teaspoons finely chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions

In a sauté pan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the diced onions and minced garlic cloves. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the garlic from burning.
Add 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and whisk together to make a roux (this will thicken the stew as it cooks).
Add 1 cup of chicken broth and stir. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until thickened.
Add the celery, carrots, chicken, and herbs (thyme, rosemary, bay leaves) to the slow cooker.
Pour in the remaining 3 cups of chicken broth and the onion/garlic roux mixture into the slow cooker and stir to combine.
Place the lid on and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 6 hours.
When the initial cooking time is finished, remove the bay leaves and herb stalks. Stir in the peas, parsley, and heavy cream. Cover with the lid while preparing the dumplings. (Note: If the mixture isn’t as thick as desired, whisk 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to form a slurry, then stir it into the slow cooker. It will thicken as the dumplings cook.)
For the Cheddar Dumplings: In a mixing bowl, combine 1½ cups of all-purpose flour and 2½ teaspoons of baking powder.
Add 4 tablespoons of cold, cubed butter. Using a fork or your hands, work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Be careful not to let the butter get warm and melt.
Add ½ cup of milk and mix until just combined. If the mixture is too dry, add an additional tablespoon of milk at a time until it’s slightly sticky. Stir in 1 cup of freshly shredded cheddar cheese and 2 teaspoons of finely chopped parsley (optional).
Drop the cheddar dumpling dough by large spoonfuls onto the hot chicken broth mixture. Gently press them under the broth just until covered. They will float back to the top, which helps them cook more evenly.
Cover the slow cooker again and cook on high for an additional hour, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
Once finished, the dumplings may have stuck together. Gently break them up before serving. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

For the best melt and texture, always use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties.
Feel free to customize the vegetables! Beyond carrots, peas, and celery, consider adding onions, mushrooms, corn, or green beans.
Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, bay leaves) offer the best flavor, but dried can be substituted at a ratio of 1 teaspoon dried to 1 tablespoon fresh. Parsley is primarily for color and a fresh note, and is optional.
You can use either raw, diced boneless, skinless chicken breasts or shredded rotisserie chicken for this recipe. If using rotisserie, add it later in the cooking process (step 7) to prevent it from drying out.
Don’t be alarmed if the dumplings stick together after cooking; simply break them up gently with a spoon before serving.

Nutrition Information (Estimate Per Serving)

Nutritional Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate. It can vary significantly based on specific brands used and portion sizes. Please consult a qualified dietician or nutritionist for precise dietary advice.

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