½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds mild heat and sharpness.
For the Dumplings
2 cans refrigerated biscuit dough (8-count each) – The secret shortcut to fluffy dumplings without fuss. Once cut into pieces, they expand in the broth, becoming soft, pillowy bites.
¼ cup all-purpose flour – Lightly dusting the biscuit dough with flour helps prevent sticking and thickens the broth slightly as the dumplings cook.
Optional Additions
1 cup frozen peas – Stirred in at the end for a pop of color and sweetness.
Fresh parsley, chopped – Adds freshness and a bright finish when sprinkled on top before serving.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make the best crock pot chicken and dumplings:
Step 1: Prepare the Crock Pot Base
1. Place the chicken breasts or thighs into the bottom of your crock pot.
2. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic on top of the chicken.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the cream of chicken soup until well combined.
4. Season with thyme, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Pro Tip: For even richer flavor, sauté the onions, carrots, and celery in a little butter before adding them to the crock pot. This step caramelizes their natural sugars.
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Step 2: Slow Cook the Chicken
1. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreddable.
2. Once cooked, remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the crock pot. Stir well to combine with the creamy broth.
Step 3: Add the Dumplings
1. Open the biscuit dough cans and cut each biscuit into 4–6 small pieces.
2. Toss the pieces lightly in flour to prevent sticking.
3. Drop the dough pieces into the hot broth, making sure they are submerged but not overcrowded.
4. Cover and cook on HIGH for 1 hour. During this time, resist the urge to lift the lid—steam is crucial for the dumplings to puff up and cook properly.
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Step 4: Finish and Serve
1. After an hour, check the dumplings. They should be fluffy and cooked through (no raw dough inside).
2. Stir in frozen peas if using, and let them heat through for 5 minutes.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
