Crock-Pot Chicken and Dumplings Recipe - A Hearty Family Favorite - Quickie Recipe

Ingredients

• 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs, chopped.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided.
• 1/2 teaspoon 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, divided.
• 2 bay leaves.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (for dumplings).
• 3 teaspoons baking powder (for dumplings).
• 1 teaspoon salt (for dumplings).
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper (for dumplings).
• 1 cup whole milk (for dumplings).
• 4 tablespoons melted butter (for dumplings).