If you are craving ultimate comfort food that fills the soul as much as the stomach, you have to try Grandma Georgia’s Chicken and Dumplings Crock Pot Recipe. This classic Southern dish melds tender, slow-cooked chicken with rich, flavorful broth and fluffy homemade dumplings that soak up all that goodness. Simplicity is its charm—every bite bursts with warmth and nostalgia, making it a perfect meal to gather around the table with family or friends. Trust me, this recipe will become your go-to when you want something hearty, homemade, and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Grandma Georgia’s Chicken and Dumplings Crock Pot Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that work beautifully together. Each item plays a vital role—fresh vegetables for crunch and sweetness, fragrant herbs for depth, and pantry staples that bring it all together in a cozy, satisfying dish.
- 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, they stay moist throughout the slow cooking process.
- 4 cups water: The base for the broth, essential for simmering flavors.
- 4 teaspoons Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base: Adds rich, savory depth that makes the broth taste homemade.
- 5-10 carrots (peeled and cut into large chunks): Carrots provide natural sweetness and vibrant color to the stew.
- 2 cups celery (chopped into 1/2 inch chunks): This adds an aromatic crunch and balances the flavors.
- 1 large onion (chopped): A fragrant foundation for the broth’s rich flavor.
- 2 bay leaves: Bring a subtle, herbal earthiness to the slow-cooked broth.
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning: Enhances the chicken’s natural flavor with classic herb notes.
- 1 & 1/2 teaspoons dried parsley: Adds freshness and a hint of green.
- 1 teaspoon sage: A warm, fragrant herb that complements the dish perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing all flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper: Provides just enough kick without overpowering.
- 3 cups flour (spooned and leveled): The base for light and fluffy dumplings.
- 1 & 1/2 teaspoons salt (for dumplings): Seasoning brings out the flavor in each bite.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Makes dumplings rise beautifully, ensuring a tender texture.
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley (or 2 tablespoons fresh parsley): Brightens the dumplings with a mild herbaceous note.
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper (for dumplings): Subtle seasoning that complements the dumplings’ mild flavor.
- 3 tablespoons cold butter: Creates a flaky, rich texture in the dumplings.
- 3 tablespoons shortening: Helps the dumplings stay tender and light.
- 1 & 1/2 cups buttermilk (cheat version is okay): Adds tang and moisture for perfectly tender dumplings.
- 2 cups cooking liquid (reserved): Used to make a luscious gravy.
- 3/4 cup cold water: Mixed with flour to thicken the gravy smoothly.
- 1/3 cup flour (for gravy): Essential for creating a silky, thickened sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base (for gravy): Boosts the savory richness.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Final seasoning to perfect every bite.
How to Make Grandma Georgia’s Chicken and Dumplings Crock Pot Recipe
Step 1: Combine Chicken and Vegetables
Start by placing the chicken thighs into your crock pot with the water and chicken base. This will form the flavorful broth that is the heart of the dish. Next, add in your peeled carrots, chopped celery, and onion. Don’t be shy with the carrots—more is merrier, and they naturally sweeten the stew as they cook. Add the bay leaves, poultry seasoning, dried parsley, sage, salt, and pepper, then give everything a good stir to evenly distribute the seasoning.
Step 2: Slow Cook for Tender Perfection
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on high for 4-5 hours or low for about 7 hours. This slow simmer allows the chicken to become fall-apart tender while the vegetables absorb all those wonderful spices. Make sure not to leave it cooking too long after the time is up, as you want to preserve that fresh, comforting chicken flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Dumpling Batter
While the chicken is cooking, mix the dumpling dry ingredients in a medium bowl—flour, salt, baking powder, parsley, and pepper. Use a fork or pastry cutter to cut the cold butter and shortening into the mix until you have pea-sized chunks. Then stir in the buttermilk just until everything is moistened. Be gentle and avoid overmixing to keep your dumplings light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add Dumplings and Finish Cooking
Once the chicken has finished cooking, quickly switch the crock pot to high, scoop out 2 cups of the cooking liquid, and set it aside for gravy. Arrange the chicken on top of the vegetables, then drop golf ball-sized dumplings gently on top of the chicken. You want to avoid letting the dumplings sink straight into the liquid, but a little sinking is inevitable. Cover immediately and cook for about 25 minutes until the dumplings are cooked through.
Step 5: Make the Savory Gravy
Remove fat from the reserved cooking liquid and bring it to a boil in a small pot. Whisk cold water and flour together until smooth, then gradually whisk this into the boiling liquid. Stir in the chicken base and simmer over medium heat until thickened, about 5-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste; this gravy ties the whole dish together with a silky, flavorful finish.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Check your dumplings with a toothpick for doneness—no wet batter means they’re ready. Use a slotted spoon to transfer dumplings and chicken onto your serving platter, along with the softened vegetables. Serve the warm gravy on the side to pour over individual plates, ensuring every bite is luscious and perfectly moist.
How to Serve Grandma Georgia’s Chicken and Dumplings Crock Pot Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your bowl of Grandma Georgia’s Chicken and Dumplings Crock Pot Recipe, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top. A light dusting of cracked black pepper adds a beautiful finishing touch and aroma. A few dashes of hot sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add a little twist if you prefer bold flavors.
Side Dishes
This dish is rich and hearty, so simple sides work best. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. Crusty bread or a warm cornbread complements the dumplings wonderfully by soaking up any extra gravy on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Present your chicken and dumplings in individual rustic ramekins or soup crocks for a charming touch, especially if entertaining guests. You can also serve the dumplings stacked atop the chicken in a shallow bowl, drizzle with gravy, and garnish with edible flowers for a stunning centerpiece. The beautiful colors of carrots and herbs make this dish visually inviting no matter how you plate it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Grandma Georgia’s Chicken and Dumplings Crock Pot Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it just as tasty the next day. Be sure to store the dumplings on top of the chicken and vegetables to prevent them from getting soggy.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, separate the chicken and vegetables from the dumplings if possible, as dumplings can become dense when frozen and thawed. Freeze portions in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently on the stove over low heat or in a microwave at medium power to avoid drying out the chicken or overcooking the dumplings. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to refresh the gravy, stirring occasionally until heated through and comforting again.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in Grandma Georgia’s Chicken and Dumplings Crock Pot Recipe?
You certainly can, though chicken thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful during the long cooking time. If you use breasts, watch closely so they don’t dry out—cook on low and check for tenderness earlier.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free flour blends for both the dumplings and the gravy thickener. Just make sure your chicken base is gluten-free as well. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can get everything ready except the dumplings up to a day before you plan to serve. Store the cooked chicken and vegetables, then add and cook the dumplings right before serving to ensure they stay light and fluffy.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
No worries! You can easily make a buttermilk substitute by stirring 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar into 1 & 1/2 cups of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes, and it’s ready to use for the dumplings.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs like parsley and sage will bring a brighter flavor. Use about three times the amount of fresh compared to dried since fresh herbs are less concentrated.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the warm embrace of Grandma Georgia’s Chicken and Dumplings Crock Pot Recipe on a chilly day or whenever comfort food is calling your name. Its rich broth, tender chicken, and pillowy dumplings offer that perfect combination of familiar flavors that make every meal feel special. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s a timeless classic that will quickly become a beloved favorite in your home, just as it has been in mine.
Print
Grandma Georgia’s Chicken and Dumplings Crock Pot Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours
- Total Time: 7 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
Grandma Georgia’s Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting, classic Southern dish slow-cooked in a crock pot. Tender chicken and hearty vegetables simmer with aromatic herbs to create a flavorful broth, topped with fluffy homemade dumplings cooked right in the pot. Finished with a rich, homemade gravy, this recipe is perfect for a wholesome family meal that warms the soul.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Vegetables
- 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups water
- 4 teaspoons Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base
- 5–10 carrots, peeled and cut into large 3-4 inch chunks
- 2 cups celery, chopped into 1/2 inch chunks
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon sage
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Dumplings
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley (or 2 tablespoons fresh parsley)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons cold butter
- 3 tablespoons shortening
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk (regular or store-bought “cheat” version)
For the Gravy
- 2 cups cooking liquid reserved from crock pot
- 3/4 cup cold water (or cold chicken broth)
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Base: Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs, 4 cups of water, and 4 teaspoons of Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base into a large crock pot.
- Prepare Vegetables: Peel and chop carrots into large 3-4 inch chunks. Coarsely chop celery into 1/2 inch pieces and chop the onion. Add all vegetables to the crock pot.
- Add Seasonings: Place 2 bay leaves, 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning, 1 1/2 teaspoons dried parsley, 1 teaspoon sage, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper into the crock pot with ingredients. Stir to combine.
- Cook the Chicken and Vegetables: Cover and cook on high for 4-5 hours or low for about 7 hours. Avoid cooking longer than this to prevent chicken from losing flavor.
- Make the Dumplings Dry Mix: In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 cups flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 2 teaspoons dried parsley, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
- Cut in Fats: Use a fork or pastry cutter to cut cold butter and shortening into the dry ingredients until pea-sized chunks remain.
- Add Buttermilk: Stir in 1 1/2 cups buttermilk with a spatula just until moistened. Do not overmix.
- Prepare for Dumpling Cooking: Turn crock pot to high. Quickly remove the lid and scoop out 2 cups of cooking liquid from the crock pot; set aside. Arrange the cooked chicken on top of the vegetables inside the crock pot.
- Add Dumplings: Using a spoon or your hands, scoop golf ball-sized pieces of dumpling batter and drop them on top of the chicken. Try to avoid dropping them directly into the liquid as much as possible.
- Cook Dumplings: Immediately cover the crock pot and cook dumplings for 25 minutes.
- Make the Gravy Base: Separate and discard fat from the reserved 2 cups of cooking liquid using a fat separator or careful pouring.
- Heat Cooking Liquid: Add the defatted cooking liquid to a small pot and bring to a boil over high heat.
- Prepare Flour Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup cold water (or cold chicken broth) and 1/3 cup flour until smooth and lump-free.
- Thicken Gravy: Gradually whisk the flour slurry into the boiling cooking liquid. Add 1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base. Reduce heat to medium and stir continuously until the gravy thickens, about 5-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Check Dumplings: After 25 minutes, insert a toothpick into the center of a dumpling. If it comes out clean, the dumplings are done.
- Assemble and Serve: Use a spoon to transfer dumplings onto a serving platter. With a slotted spoon, remove chicken and vegetables and place them on the platter. Serve with the homemade gravy alongside.
- Save Broth: Reserve any remaining broth for future uses such as soups or sauces.
Notes
- Carrot quantity can be adjusted depending on preference; they will shrink during cooking.
- Be careful not to overmix dumpling batter to keep dumplings light and tender.
- Separating fat from cooking liquid before making gravy leads to a cleaner, richer sauce.
- If buttermilk is unavailable, use the “cheat” version by adding 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar to 1 1/2 cups milk and letting it stand 5 minutes.
- Crock pot temperatures and cook times may vary; check dumplings at 25 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- This recipe yields 6 hearty servings ideal for family meals.
