Tender Chicken and Fluffy Dumplings in the Slow Cooker

Ingredients

• 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 3 celery ribs, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup whole milk
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted