Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli

This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli recipe is your new best friend for any busy weeknight meal! Imagine returning home to the smell of tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, all simmered in a savory sauce that’s simply irresistible. This dish not only fills your home with comforting aromas but also satisfies your appetite in the most delicious way. Whether you’re cooking for the family or preparing a cozy dinner for yourself, this recipe makes it simple to enjoy great food without spending hours in the kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your slow cooker, and let’s whip up a meal that’s as easy as it is tasty!

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Why This Recipe Works

This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli recipe marries tender chicken and vibrant broccoli in a flavorful sauce that simmers to perfection. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring that every bite is tender, juicy, and packed with taste. When the chicken mingles with the sauce, you end up with a dish that’s not only satisfying but also doesn’t require much effort to prepare. The slow cooker truly works magic, allowing the ingredients to come together seamlessly while you go about your day.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli

Not only is this recipe straightforward, but it’s also customizable to fit your family’s preferences. Perhaps someone has a favorite vegetable or prefers a specific flavor profile? No worries! You can tweak this dish easily. With minimal prep and cleanup, you can focus on enjoying the meal with your loved ones rather than stressing in the kitchen. Plus, leftovers make fantastic lunches the next day, making this recipe even more worthwhile.

Ingredients

• 3 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ⅓ cup soy sauce
• 1 Tablespoon pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 Tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 Tablespoon dried onion flakes
• 2 Tablespoons corn starch
• 3 Tablespoons water
• White Rice (for serving)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Slow Cooker

Start by spraying your slow cooker with nonstick spray to ensure easy cleanup later. This small step makes a big difference when it comes to washing up after dinner!

Layer the Ingredients

Now, place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Gently add the fresh broccoli florets on top. This layering not only looks appealing but also allows the broccoli to soak up all the delicious juices as it cooks.

Whisk the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, pure maple syrup, sesame oil, salt, pepper, minced garlic, ground ginger, and dried onion flakes until well combined. This sauce is the heartbeat of your dish—rich in flavor and aroma.

Pour the Sauce

Carefully pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken and broccoli in the slow cooker. You want to make sure everything is coated to maximize flavor.

Set the Cooking Time

Cover and cook on high for 3 hours, or on low for 5–6 hours. If you prefer crisper broccoli, add the florets during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This way, the broccoli retains its vibrant color and crunch.

Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir this slurry into the slow cooker and let it cook for an additional 5–10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your liking. This step is essential to get that luscious, clingy sauce that makes every bite special!

Serve

Serve the chicken and broccoli over white rice, making sure to drizzle some of that delectable sauce over it too. Finally, sprinkle with sesame seeds for an added crunch and flavor. It’s visually delightful and utterly delicious!

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli pairs beautifully with fluffy white rice or quinoa. If you’re looking to expand your meal, serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or steamed dumplings for a well-rounded experience. Your family and friends will be impressed with the presentation and flavors!

Tips for Success

• Adjust the cooking time based on your slow cooker’s performance. If you notice that it cooks faster or slower, keep an eye on the chicken and adjust accordingly.
• For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the sauce for a few hours before cooking. A little extra time can make a world of difference!
• If you prefer a spicy kick, simply add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture for that bold, fiery touch.

Variations

• Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Both alternatives will soak up the flavor and deliver a satisfying meal.
• Add other vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots to the mix for extra nutrition.
• Feel free to experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or sweet and sour to shift the flavor profile just how you like it.

Storage Tips

When you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving to ensure those flavors are back to their best. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Remember to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating, so it’s ready for a quick meal later!

Pairing Ideas

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, a light soy sauce salad, or your favorite Asian-inspired sides. Consider adding some fresh herbs or lime wedges on the side for an added zing!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours on low. The slow cooker will do its job, and you’ll still have a great meal!

2. What can I substitute for soy sauce?
You can use tamari (gluten-free) or a soy sauce alternative like coconut aminos if you’re looking for a different twist.

3. How do I keep broccoli from getting mushy?
Add broccoli in the last 30 minutes of cooking for a crisper texture. This way, you get that perfect bite every time!

4. Can I make this recipe with other proteins?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with pork, tofu, or shrimp, allowing for a variety of delicious meals.

5. How can I enhance the flavor?
Marinating the chicken overnight in the sauce ingredients boosts the flavor significantly and gives extra depth to the dish.

Savor the deliciousness of Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli, a dish that brings comfort and nourishment. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is both a timesaver and a crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful balance of flavors and effortless creativity in the kitchen. Make it your go-to meal for those evenings when you crave something delicious without the fuss!

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