Name: Crockpot Chicken Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 165 min
Total time: 175 min
Ingredients: ⅔ cup Water; ⅓ cup Reduced-sodium soy sauce (plus additional to taste); 3 tablespoons Honey; 2 tablespoons Rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons Cornstarch; 3 cloves Garlic (minced (about 1 tablespoon)); 1 tablespoon Minced fresh ginger; ¼ teaspoon Red pepper flakes (plus additional to taste); 1 tablespoon Toasted sesame oil; 1 ½ pounds Boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 heads Broccoli (cut into florets); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water to create a slurry); ½ cup Chopped green onions; Cooked brown rice or quinoa or cauliflower rice (for serving); Toasted sesame seeds (for serving)

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There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of Crockpot Chicken Broccoli. I often find myself reminiscing about the times when I’d return home after a long day, the air filled with an incredible aroma that beckoned me to the kitchen. This dish brings together tender pieces of chicken and vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that feels like a warm embrace. It’s one of those recipes that feels like home, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. I love the simplicity of throwing everything in the crockpot and letting it do its magic while I unwind.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
2 hr 55 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
165 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Slow Cooker, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl

Why This Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Works

Effortless Cooking

One of the best things about this Crockpot Chicken Broccoli is how easy it is to prepare. You just toss all the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the hard work. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Deliciously Healthy

This dish isn’t just tasty—it’s also packed with nutrients. The broccoli provides essential vitamins and minerals, while the chicken offers lean protein, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.

Flavorful Sauce

The sauce is where the magic happens. With a blend of soy sauce, honey, and a touch of ginger, it creates a complex flavor profile that perfectly coats the chicken and broccoli. Each bite is a delightful explosion of taste that keeps you coming back for more.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re into meal prepping, this recipe is a fantastic option. You can make a big batch and store leftovers for lunch throughout the week. Just portion it out, and you’ve got healthy meals ready to go.

Great for Gatherings

This Crockpot Chicken Broccoli is perfect for gatherings, too. Whether it’s a family reunion or a cozy get-together with friends, it’s a dish that pleases everyone. Serve it over rice or quinoa, and watch it disappear!

Simple Ingredients

With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delicious meal without breaking the bank. The simplicity of this recipe means you can whip it up on a whim without a trip to the grocery store.

Main Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken Broccoli

When it comes to the ingredients for Crockpot Chicken Broccoli, simplicity is key. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering a flavorful and satisfying dish. The star players here are tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a savory sauce that brings it all together.

Water: Essential for creating the sauce, water helps to meld the flavors and keep the dish moist.
Reduced-sodium soy sauce: This adds a rich umami flavor without being overly salty.
Honey: For a touch of sweetness that balances the flavors perfectly.
Rice vinegar: Adds a hint of acidity that brightens the dish.
Cornstarch: Necessary for thickening the sauce, giving it a luscious texture.
Garlic: A must-have for adding depth and warmth.
Fresh ginger: This ingredient brings a delightful zing that elevates the dish.
Red pepper flakes: Just a pinch gives the dish a subtle heat.
Toasted sesame oil: Introduces a nutty flavor that enhances the overall profile.
Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The main protein source, which becomes juicy and tender during cooking.
Broccoli: Vibrant and nutritious, broccoli adds color and texture.
Green onions: For a fresh garnish that provides a crunchy contrast.
Cooked brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice: Suggested for serving, these grains are great complements to the dish.
Toasted sesame seeds: A lovely garnish that adds texture and a hint of nuttiness.

Preparation Steps for Crockpot Chicken Broccoli

Getting started with the Crockpot Chicken Broccoli is super easy and rewarding. Just follow these simple steps for a delicious meal that will have your family asking for seconds. Let’s dive right into the preparation!

First, in a small bowl or large liquid measuring cup, stir together the sauce ingredients: water, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. This is where the flavor begins, so mix well until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
Next, pour a thin layer of the sauce into the bottom of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker. This should be about one-third of the sauce, providing a flavorful base for your chicken.
Now, arrange the chicken breasts on top of the sauce. It’s okay if they overlap a little; they’ll soak up all those delicious flavors as they cook.
Pour the remaining sauce over the chicken. Make sure every piece is coated, as this will ensure maximum flavor.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 2 hours. This low-and-slow method allows the chicken to become tender and juicy.
After 2 hours, in a small bowl, stir together the 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. This will help thicken the sauce.
Add the slurry to the slow cooker, pouring it into the liquid around the chicken. This step is crucial for achieving a nice, thick sauce.
Now, it’s time to add the broccoli florets on top of the chicken. Cover and cook on HIGH until the broccoli is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through, registering 165 degrees F on an instant-read thermometer. This should take about 45 minutes to 1 hour more.
After the cooking time is up, remove the chicken to a plate. Let it cool slightly, then cut into bite-sized pieces. This makes serving easier.
Stir the broccoli around in the sauce to smooth it out. Then return the chicken to the slow cooker and add the sesame oil and green onions. Mix well to combine everything.
Finally, taste and adjust seasonings as desired. Serve hot over rice with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an added crunch.

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking on Low: When using the slow cooker, cooking on low helps to break down the chicken fibers, making it more tender.
Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or even some sliced jalapeños.
Thickening the Sauce: If the sauce isn’t thick enough for your liking, you can always add more cornstarch mixed with water at the end.
Checking Doneness: Always use an instant-read thermometer to check that the chicken has reached 165 degrees F for safety.
Storing Leftovers: Ensure that you store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.

Customization Ideas

One of the best things about the Crockpot Chicken Broccoli is the ability to customize it to your tastes. Here are some ideas to make this dish your own:

Change Up the Protein: If you want to mix things up, try using tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or snow peas for added nutrition and color.
Serve with Different Grains: Instead of rice, consider serving this dish with quinoa or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Sauce Variations: Experiment with different sauces. A spicy sriracha or a sweet teriyaki sauce could give it an exciting twist.
Garnish Options: For extra flavor, top your dish with chopped nuts like peanuts or cashews, or sprinkle with cilantro.
Make it a Casserole: If you prefer baked dishes, you can transfer the ingredients to a casserole dish and bake it instead of using the slow cooker.
Leftover Transformation: Use leftovers to create a delicious wrap or stir-fry for a new meal the next day.

Serving Ideas for Crockpot Chicken Broccoli

When it comes to serving the Crockpot Chicken Broccoli, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal experience:

Over Rice: Serve the dish over fluffy rice for a traditional approach. Brown rice pairs nicely for a healthy touch.
With Quinoa: For a nutty flavor and added protein, serve it over quinoa.
Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, try serving it over cauliflower rice for a lighter meal.
Garnished: Don’t forget to top with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an added crunch and flavor boost.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish is a great choice for meal prepping. Portion out servings for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Family Gatherings: Set it out for gatherings, and let guests serve themselves for a relaxed dining experience.
Pairing with Salads: A light salad on the side can be a refreshing complement to the warm dish.
Seasonal Pairing: This meal works well with fall or winter sides like roasted sweet potatoes or warm bread.

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in Crockpot Chicken Broccoli. Just add it during the last hour of cooking. This way, it will retain some texture and won’t become mushy. Using frozen broccoli can also save you time, making this already simple recipe even easier to prepare.

This dish is incredibly versatile. You can serve it over rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables would also complement the meal beautifully. Feel free to get creative with your sides!

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate them. They should last up to four days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing. Just make sure to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Absolutely! If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or even some sliced jalapeños. You can also reduce the amount of spice if you’re cooking for kids or anyone who prefers milder flavors. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability!

Conclusion

The Crockpot Chicken Broccoli is a heartwarming dish that brings together family and friends around the dinner table. Its simple ingredients and hearty flavors create a meal that everyone can enjoy. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it may just become your new favorite weeknight dinner!