Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

This Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend family gathering. With its tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, this dish combines convenience with nutrition. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing you to enjoy a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it can easily be adjusted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Simply toss all the ingredients in the slow cooker, set it, and forget it until dinner time.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger creates a deliciously rich sauce that complements the chicken well.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and veggies, this dish is a wholesome choice for any meal.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to have leftovers throughout the week or freeze portions for future meals.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the tender chicken and crunchy broccoli, making it an easy way to include vegetables in their diet.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: The star of this dish; it allows for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping your ingredients efficiently.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes quick work of cutting chicken and vegetables.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for balanced flavors.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 750g (1.7 lb) chicken breast, cut into chunks
– 2 onions, quartered
– 3 tsp garlic, crushed
– 2 tsp ginger, minced
– 250ml (8.5 fl oz) chicken stock
– ½ cup soy sauce
– ¼ cup brown sugar
– ¼ cup oyster sauce
– 1 Tbsp sesame oil
– 500g (1.1 lb) broccoli florets, room temperature
– 2 Tbsp cornstarch
– 3 Tbsp water

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

In a slow cooker, add the following:
1. Chicken chunks: These will be the main protein source.
2. Onions: Quartered to enhance flavor during cooking.
3. Garlic: Crushed for a robust taste.
4. Ginger: Minced to add freshness.
5. Chicken stock: This will keep everything moist during cooking.
6. Soy sauce: For saltiness and umami flavor.
7. Brown sugar: To balance the savory flavors with sweetness.
8. Oyster sauce: Adds depth and richness to the dish.
9. Sesame oil: A finishing touch that brings nuttiness.

Step 2: Set It to Cook

Cook on low for 4–6 hours:
1. Cover the slow cooker with its lid to retain moisture.
2. Ensure you check halfway through if desired.

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce

Mix cornstarch with water:
1. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of water until smooth.
2. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker towards the end of cooking.

Step 4: Add Broccoli

Add broccoli florets:
1. Gently mix them into your slow cooker contents after thickening the sauce.
2. Cook on high for roughly 30 minutes or until hot.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Once everything is cooked:
1. Serve warm over rice or noodles if desired.
2. Enjoy your flavorful Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

This slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you want a quick meal or an elegant dinner, here are some serving suggestions.

Over Steamed Rice

• Steamed white or brown rice is a classic choice that absorbs the rich flavors of the sauce.

In a Wrap

• Use tortillas to make a delicious wrap filled with chicken, broccoli, and extra sauce for a hearty lunch.

With Quinoa

• Quinoa adds a nutty flavor and is a great gluten-free option that pairs well with this dish.

On Noodle Bowls

• Serve the chicken and broccoli over noodles for an Asian-inspired meal that’s filling and satisfying.

As Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, use large lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps filled with the chicken mixture.

With Cauliflower Rice

• For a low-carb alternative, serve it over cauliflower rice, which complements the dish perfectly.

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How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

To achieve the best results with your slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose quality chicken: Fresh, high-quality chicken breast ensures tender meat once cooked.

• Prep ingredients ahead: Chopping onions and garlic in advance saves time on cooking day.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce before adding cornstarch for thickness; feel free to tweak soy sauce or sugar based on preference.

• Don’t overcook broccoli: Add broccoli towards the end of cooking to maintain its bright color and crisp texture.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your slow cooker chicken and broccoli enhances your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fried Rice: A simple fried rice with peas and carrots complements the flavors beautifully.

2. Garlic Bread: Soft, warm garlic bread can soak up any leftover sauce from the dish.

3. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and balances out the savory elements in your main dish.

4. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls provide a delightful crunch alongside your juicy chicken and broccoli.

5. Steamed Dumplings: These can be filled with vegetables or meat, making them an excellent accompaniment.

6. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad adds a refreshing touch to your hearty meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking a Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe can be simple, but avoiding common errors is crucial for the best results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Filling the slow cooker too much can prevent even cooking. Stick to recommended amounts for best results.
• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the chicken beforehand can lead to less flavor. Take a few minutes to sear it in a pan for extra taste.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: If you don’t add enough liquid, your dish may dry out. Ensure you include sufficient stock or sauce.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking on high instead of low can alter texture. Follow set times for optimal tenderness.
• Adding Broccoli Too Early: Putting broccoli in too soon will make it mushy. Add it in the last 30 minutes for perfect crunch.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

• Place in freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring gently until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe that may help enhance your cooking experience.

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

You can use frozen chicken; however, adjust cooking time accordingly. It may take an additional hour.

What can I substitute for soy sauce?

You can replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.

How do I customize this Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots according to your taste preferences.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes! It includes lean protein from chicken and nutritious broccoli, making it a balanced meal option.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the seasoning. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something comforting yet wholesome. Give it a try — your family will love it!