The aroma of tender chicken mingling with fresh broccoli wafts through the air as you enter your kitchen. The thought of cozying up to a bowl of Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. crispy oven fried chicken thighs This dish promises not just a meal, but an experience that dances on your taste buds.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli
- How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What ingredients do I need for Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli?
- How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli?
- Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
- What can I serve with Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli?
- Conclusion for Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli:
- 📖 Recipe Card
Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and you’ve just come home after a long day. You want comfort food without the fuss. Enter Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli, your new best friend in the kitchen! With minimal effort, you’ll create a deliciously satisfying dish that makes you feel like a five-star chef, all while wearing your favorite pajamas. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means you can set it and forget it, making dinner hassle-free.
- The flavor profile combines savory chicken with vibrant broccoli for a delightful bite.
- Its visual appeal is sure to impress anyone at your table, even if they’re just there for takeout leftovers!
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve over rice, noodles, or on its own for a low-carb meal.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well; adjust based on how hungry everyone is.
- Fresh Broccoli Florets: Use vibrant green broccoli; it adds color and nutrition to the dish.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic gives this recipe an aromatic kick that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep the dish flavorful without overdoing the saltiness.
- Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness that balances beautifully with the savory flavors.
- Sesame Oil: Just a drizzle infuses the dish with a nutty richness that’s simply irresistible.
For the Sauce:
- Cornstarch: This simple ingredient helps thicken the sauce to perfection.
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 chopping your broccoli into bite-sized florets; nobody wants gigantic trees on their plate! Then mince some fresh garlic because let’s be honest—garlic makes everything better.
Step 2: Create the Base
Place your boneless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. This allows them to soak up all those delicious flavors as they cook.
Step 3: Whisk Up Your Sauce
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and minced garlic—this is where the magic happens! Mix thoroughly until combined; you’re creating a flavor party!
Step 4: Pour It All Together
Pour that glorious sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker. Sprinkle some cornstarch over it too—this little guy is going to thicken things up nicely!
Step 5: Let It Cook
Set your slow cooker on low heat for about four hours or high heat for two hours. Go binge-watch your favorite show while dinner cooks itself!
Step 6: Add Broccoli
In the last half hour of cooking, toss in those beautiful broccoli florets. They’ll steam perfectly while soaking up all that saucy goodness.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with any leftover sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece—you deserve it!
You Must Know
- This amazing slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for busy weeknights but versatile enough for meal prep.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
The best way to tackle this slow cooker chicken and broccoli masterpiece is to layer flavors like a pro. Start by searing the chicken for that irresistible golden crust, then toss in your broccoli while the chicken cooks to perfection in its savory sauce. slow cooker nacho soup.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to get creative! Swap out the broccoli for your favorite green veggies, add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or even toss in some cashews for an extra crunch. Make this dish truly yours!
Storing & Reheating
To keep your slow cooker chicken and broccoli fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave to maintain that tender texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh vegetables for better flavor; frozen ones can become mushy.
- Don’t skip searing the chicken first; it adds depth of flavor.
- For extra sauciness, add a splash of chicken broth before serving.
Sometimes I make this dish when friends come over, and they rave about how I must have spent hours cooking—little do they know it was all thanks to my trusty slow cooker!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli?
To make a delicious Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli dish, gather the following ingredients: boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fresh broccoli florets, soy sauce, garlic cloves, ginger, chicken broth, and cornstarch. You may also want to add sesame oil for flavor and serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal. The combination of these ingredients provides a savory taste while ensuring the chicken remains tender and the broccoli stays vibrant. Always choose fresh produce for the best results.
How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli?
Cooking Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli typically takes about 4 to 6 hours on low heat or 2 to 3 hours on high heat. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken juicy and tender. Ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Adjusting the cooking time based on your slow cooker model can help achieve perfect results every time.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken in your Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli recipe. However, keep in mind that using frozen chicken may increase cooking time significantly. It is essential to ensure that the chicken reaches the recommended internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you prefer even tenderness in your dish, consider thawing the chicken beforehand for improved flavor absorption and texture.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli?
Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli pairs well with various side dishes. Consider serving it over steamed rice or egg noodles for a hearty meal. You can also complement it with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier option. Adding a simple side salad or some steamed carrots can enhance your dining experience with color and nutrients while balancing out the flavors of this savory dish.
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli:
In summary, Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli is an easy yet flavorful meal that combines tender chicken with vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce. By following simple steps and using fresh ingredients, you can create a satisfying dish that requires minimal effort. Mediterranean chicken sheet pan dinner Whether served over rice or noodles, it makes for a nutritious dinner option that everyone will love. easy and flavorful rice recipes Enjoy this recipe as part of your weekly meal planning for tasty family dinners!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli is a hassle-free, delicious comfort food that combines tender chicken with vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce. This easy recipe transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep time, you can enjoy a flavorful dish that the whole family will love, served over rice or noodles.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
Instructions
- Chop broccoli into bite-sized florets and mince garlic.
- Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and minced garlic.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and sprinkle with cornstarch.
- Cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours.
- Add broccoli during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Serve warm, drizzling with extra sauce if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
