PREPARATION METHOD:

1st Step: 

Prepare the chicken as the first thing. Trim the chicken breasts of any excess flesh and cut them into bite-sized segments. Season with salt and pepper.

2nd Step: 

Place the chicken, onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic in the slow cooker. And Combine the chicken broth, water, bay leaves, dried thyme, and additional salt and pepper to flavor in a separate basin. Blend well.

3rd Step: 

In the slow cooker, pour the broth mixture over the chicken and vegetables. Ensure that the liquid encompasses all of the ingredients. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken must be thoroughly cooked and tender.

4th Step: 

Prepare the dumplings near the conclusion of the simmering period. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing basin.

5th Step:

In a separate basin, combine the butter and milk. Pour the milk mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until the mixture is just combined. Take caution not to overmix the dough; it should have a few lumps.

6th Step: 

Once the chicken has finished cooking, remove the bay leaves from the slow cooker and dispose of them. Place spoonfuls of dumpling dough atop the chicken and broth mixture in the slow cooker. Distribute them uniformly across the surface.