Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Chicken and Dumplings: A Cozy Delight

Imagine walking into your home after a long day, greeted by the rich and comforting aroma of herbs and garlic wafting through the air. That’s the magic of Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Chicken and Dumplings! This dish combines tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and fluffy dumplings in a creamy broth, creating a meal that warms both the body and soul. It’s not just food; it’s an experience, perfect for sharing with family or friends. In this article, we will guide you through the ingredients, preparation steps, and tips to make your cooking experience simple and enjoyable, culminating in a dish that’s sure to become a favorite at your dining table.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Chicken and Dumplings

This recipe is more than just another meal; it’s a beloved comfort food that is simple to prepare and immensely satisfying. Here’s why you’ll adore this dish:

Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation, you can set your slow cooker and let it do the magic while you attend to your day.
Perfect for Beginners: Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or an experienced cook, the straightforward steps ensure a successful dish every time.
Ideal for the Whole Family: The flavors appeal to all ages, making it a great choice for family dinners.
Economical: Utilizing affordable ingredients, this dish is both satisfying and budget-friendly, perfect for feeding a crowd.
Comforting and Hearty: The combination of tender chicken, veggies, and dumplings creates a dish that feels like a warm hug.

The Necessary Ingredients

Before diving into the kitchen, let’s gather what you need for this delightful dish. Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll require:

For the Chicken and Soup Base:
- 2–2½ lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 1½ cups celery, sliced
- 3–4 tbsp fresh minced garlic
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup half-and-half (or heavy cream)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (or 2 tsp cornstarch + 2 tsp water for GF)
- 1½ tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¾–1¼ tsp kosher salt
- Optional: ½ tsp poultry seasoning
- Optional: Pinch of smoked paprika
For the Dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ¾ tsp kosher salt
- 2 tbsp cold unsalted butter
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley
- Cracked black pepper
- Pat of butter (optional)

Notes and Substitutions on Ingredients:

Chicken: While the recipe calls for boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts for their tenderness, you can use bone-in cuts for more flavor. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time, as bone-in pieces require longer to cook.
Half-and-Half: This creates a creamy texture; however, you can substitute it with a lower-fat option, such as evaporated milk, or use a plant-based alternative like coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Flour for Dumplings: All-purpose flour is typical, but if you’re gluten-free, replacing it with a gluten-free flour blend works well. Just remember that the texture may differ slightly in the dumplings.

How to Prepare the Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Chicken and Dumplings Step by Step

Follow these simple steps to create your cozy dish. Each step is crucial for achieving the perfect flavors and textures.

Melt the Butter & Prepare the Roux:
- In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour for about 1–2 minutes until smooth (but don’t let it brown).
- Pro Tip: This roux adds depth to your broth and helps thicken the dish later.
Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker:
- Transfer the chicken, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, bay leaf, pepper, and broth into the slow cooker. Then add the butter-flour paste you prepared.
- Pro Tip: Ensuring the broth is low-sodium allows you to control the saltiness of the dish better.
Cook:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or on HIGH for 2½–3½ hours until the chicken is tender.
- Pro Tip: Cooking it low and slow allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Shred the Chicken:
- Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the slow cooker. Stir in the half-and-half and taste for seasoning, adjusting salt if necessary.
- Pro Tip: Shredding while it’s still warm makes the process easier and allows the meat to absorb additional flavors.
Prepare the Dumpling Dough:
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until crumbly. Then stir in the milk and parsley until a thick dough forms.
- Pro Tip: Avoid overmixing; just blend until combined to ensure tender dumplings.
Add Dumplings to Soup:
- Switch the slow cooker to HIGH. Drop heaping tablespoons of the dumpling dough onto the surface of the soup.
- Pro Tip: Make sure to space them out as they will puff up while cooking!
Cook the Dumplings:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 45–60 minutes until the dumplings are puffed and thoroughly cooked.
- Pro Tip: Avoid lifting the lid during the cooking time, as this will release steam and affect the cooking process.
Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the bay leaf. Serve the soup garnished with chopped parsley, cracked pepper, and a pat of butter, if desired.
- Pro Tip: A sprinkle of fresh herbs really elevates the dish’s presentation and flavor!

Serving Suggestions

Here are some delightful ways to serve your Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Chicken and Dumplings:

Perfect Pairings:

Drinks: Pair your meal with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, or a refreshing iced tea for a lighter meal.
Side Dishes: A simple green salad or crusty bread enhances the dining experience, providing texture contrast to the creamy chicken and dumplings.

Occasions:

Weeknight Dinner: The hands-off cooking makes it perfect for busy evenings when you want something hearty and satisfying.
Special Occasion Meal: Impress your guests with this comforting classic served alongside your favorite dessert.

Serving Tips:

Serve in deep bowls to capture the soupy goodness alongside the dumplings.
Garnish with a little extra parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers or want to prepare ahead, here are the best storage practices:

Refrigerated:

Duration: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Type of container: Use airtight containers to maintain the freshness.

Frozen:

Duration: If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 2 months.
Packaging: Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating:

Best method: Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If using a microwave, do so in short bursts, stirring in between.

Guaranteed Success Tips

To ensure your dish turns out perfectly, keep these golden rules in mind:

Don’t Overmix the Dumpling Dough: Mix just until combined for fluffy dumplings.
Adjust Salt Gradually: Start with less salt and add to taste, especially if using broth.
Keep the Lid Closed During Cooking: Lifting the lid can significantly impact cooking times and results.

Recipe Variations

Here are some creative twists to make this recipe your own:

For a Spicy Version: Add 1 teaspoon of Espelette pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the broth for a kick.
For a Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead for a delicious meatless meal.
For a Comforting Twist: Incorporate frozen peas or corn in the last 15 minutes of cooking for added color and sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just add an extra hour to the cooking time, as it will take longer to cook thoroughly.

Q: What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
A: You can also prepare this dish in a Dutch oven on the stovetop. Just adjust the cooking times; it will take about an hour for the chicken to become tender over medium heat.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish in advance, and then reheat it on the stovetop. Dumplings can be added just before serving to ensure they stay fluffy.

Q: Will the dumplings become soggy when reheating?
A: They may lose some texture but are still enjoyable. Reheating gently on the stove helps maintain their fluffiness.

Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use cornstarch for thickening. Ensure your chicken broth is also gluten-free.

Q: Can I add more vegetables to the dish?
A: Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like peas or green beans in the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and color.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is done?
A: The chicken should be easy to shred and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Your journey to culinary delight begins with just a few simple ingredients and steps. Enjoy crafting this Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Chicken and Dumplings recipe and watch as it becomes a cherished favorite in your home!