There’s something about the aroma of Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli wafting through the house that just makes everything feel right in the world. Imagine tender, juicy chicken bathing in a savory sauce, mingling with vibrant green broccoli, creating a dish that’s as colorful as it is delicious. grilled veggies to complement the dish As you walk into your kitchen, the scent wraps around you like a warm hug from an old friend, promising comfort and satisfaction.
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a memory waiting to happen. Picture this: a busy weeknight when everyone’s hungry but no one wants to cook. You can easily toss everything into your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you binge-watch your favorite show. Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli is here to save dinner time, bringing both flavor and joy back to mealtime! For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli is a quick prep that lets your slow cooker do all the hard work for you while you relax.
- Its combination of savory chicken and fresh broccoli creates a delightful flavor explosion.
- The colorful presentation makes it perfect for impressing guests or making family dinners special.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve over rice, noodles, or even on its own for a low-carb option!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
- Fresh Broccoli Florets: Choose bright green florets that are firm to the touch for the best texture and flavor.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic punch; aim for at least three cloves minced finely.
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: This brings depth of flavor without overwhelming saltiness; adjust based on preference.
- Honey: Sweetness balances the salty soy sauce perfectly—feel free to use maple syrup if you’re vegan!
- Sesame Oil: A few drops elevate the dish with nutty flavors; use sparingly for best results.
For the Sauce:
- Cornstarch: This thickener gives your sauce that luscious coating we all love; mix it with water before adding.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by washing and cutting your broccoli into bite-size florets. Mince the garlic cloves until they resemble tiny bits of heaven.
Step 2: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle minced garlic over them like you’re casting flavorful spells.
Step 3: Create Your Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and cornstarch mixed with water until smooth. Pour this heavenly concoction over your chicken.
Step 4: Add Broccoli
Now comes the fun part! Gently scatter those beautiful broccoli florets on top of everything—think of it as giving your chicken a fancy hat.
Step 5: Set Your Slow Cooker
Cover and set your slow cooker on low heat for about four hours or until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender enough to shred with forks.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Once cooked, shred the chicken right in the pot using two forks or simply serve whole pieces if you prefer them that way. Transfer everything onto plates or bowls and enjoy!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy this flavorful symphony that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Now you’ve got yourself an easy-going yet impressive meal that’s bound to please even those picky eaters at home! So grab your slow cooker and let’s get cooking; dinner awaits!
You Must Know
- This slow cooker chicken and broccoli dish transforms weeknight dinners into a delightful experience.
- It’s simple, healthy, and incredibly flavorful, making it a hit on any table.
- Plus, the tender chicken and crisp broccoli look beautiful together!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning the chicken with your favorite spices, then sear it for a few minutes to lock in flavor. While that’s happening, chop the broccoli and prepare your sauce. Finally, combine everything in the slow cooker for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the broccoli for other veggies like bell peppers or snap peas. You can also try different sauces like teriyaki or honey garlic for a unique twist. The world is your oyster—or should I say, your slow cooker?
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid overcooking the chicken and making it dry.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your slow cooker chicken and broccoli turns out perfectly every time, remember to use fresh ingredients for vibrant flavors.
- Don’t skip searing; it adds depth!
- Lastly, enjoy experimenting with seasonings to make this dish uniquely yours.
Sometimes I whip up this slow cooker chicken and broccoli dish when friends come over. Their compliments about how tender the chicken is always warm my heart—it’s like culinary validation!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli?
To prepare Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli, you will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fresh broccoli florets, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, and cornstarch. You may also want to include sesame oil or green onions for added flavor. These ingredients work together to create a savory sauce that complements the tender chicken and vibrant broccoli. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your serving size. Additionally, consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for more variety.
How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli?
Cooking Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli typically takes around 3 to 4 hours on the high setting or 6 to 8 hours on low heat. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring that the chicken remains tender and juicy. If you’re pressed for time, using the high setting will speed up the process without compromising too much on flavor. It’s crucial to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
Can I use frozen chicken for Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli?
Using frozen chicken in your Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli is not recommended as it may not cook evenly or thoroughly. Frozen chicken can take significantly longer to reach a safe temperature, which can lead to food safety concerns. alternative chicken preparation method For best results, always use thawed boneless, skinless chicken breasts. If you forgot to thaw your chicken, consider using a stovetop method instead or planning ahead for future meals.
What sides pair well with Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli?
Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli pairs excellently with rice or quinoa as they soak up the delicious sauce from the dish. You can also serve it alongside steamed rice noodles or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. fresh and healthy salad option Adding a simple salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm meal. Consider garnishing with sesame seeds or sliced almonds for extra texture and flavor.
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli :
In summary, Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli is a convenient and flavorful meal that requires minimal prep time while delivering satisfying results. With just a few key ingredients like chicken, broccoli, and soy sauce, you can create a dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. perfect side dish of chicken and rice By following cooking times carefully and pairing it with suitable sides like rice or quinoa, you can enjoy a nutritious dinner that’s both easy to make and delightful to eat. Enjoy this healthy recipe that your whole family will love!
Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Simply toss your ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic, while you enjoy time with family or unwind after a long day. This hearty meal not only fills the belly but also warms the heart, offering a satisfying balance of flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by washing and cutting broccoli into bite-sized florets and mincing garlic.
- Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker and sprinkle minced garlic over them.
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and cornstarch mixture until smooth. Pour over chicken.
- Scatter broccoli florets on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until chicken is tender.
- Shred chicken if desired or serve whole. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Season the chicken with salt and pepper before cooking for extra flavor. Substitute broccoli with snap peas or bell peppers for variety. Serve over rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
