Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

This Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken and vibrant broccoli in a sweet and savory sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. You can relax while your slow cooker does the work, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it until dinner time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger creates a rich flavor profile that will satisfy your taste buds.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at the table.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
• Healthy Ingredients: With lean chicken and fresh broccoli, this recipe is nutritious without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this amazing slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe, you’ll need some essential tools that will make your cooking experience seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: The star of the show! It allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring that your meal is ready when you are.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients safely and efficiently.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient portions for perfect flavor balance every time.

Ingredients

This incredible slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe will certainly impress. It is loaded with flavor and can easily feed a hungry family.

Protein

• 750g (1.7 lb) chicken breast, cut into chunks

Vegetables

• 2 onions, quartered
• 500g (1.1 lb) broccoli florets, room temperature

Aromatics

• 3 tsp garlic, crushed
• 2 tsp ginger, minced

Liquids & Sauces

• 250ml (8.5 fl oz) chicken stock
• ½ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup oyster sauce
• 1 Tbsp sesame oil

Thickening Agent

• 2 Tbsp cornstarch
• 3 Tbsp water

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by cutting the chicken into chunks and quartering the onions. Mince the ginger and crush the garlic.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker, add:
1. The chicken chunks
2. Quartered onions
3. Crushed garlic
4. Minced ginger
5. Chicken stock
6. Soy sauce
7. Brown sugar
8. Oyster sauce
9. Sesame oil

Mix everything well so that the chicken is coated with all the sauces.

Step 3: Set Cooking Time

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Thicken Sauce

After cooking, mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker until well combined.

Step 5: Add Broccoli

Gently fold in the broccoli florets into the mixture in your slow cooker.

Step 6: Final Cooking Phase

Cook on high for roughly 30 minutes more or until thickened and heated through.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Once done, serve your delicious slow cooker chicken and broccoli over rice or noodles for an extra treat! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Serving your slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe can elevate your meal experience. With a few simple ideas, you can make your dish even more delightful for everyone at the table.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken and broccoli over steamed white or brown rice for a filling meal that absorbs all the tasty sauce.

With Noodles

• Toss the chicken and broccoli with cooked noodles, such as lo mein or udon, for a satisfying pasta dish that’s packed with flavor.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves to create fresh and crunchy wraps filled with chicken and broccoli for a low-carb option.

With Quinoa

• Pair with fluffy quinoa for a nutritious twist that adds protein and fiber to your meal.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy it on its own for a lighter option, letting the rich flavors shine without any sides.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, making every bite enjoyable.

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How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

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

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will provide a more vibrant flavor compared to dried versions.
• Cut chicken evenly: Ensure all chicken pieces are similar in size for even cooking throughout.
• Avoid overcooking: Monitor cooking times closely; overcooked broccoli can become mushy.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving; feel free to add more soy sauce or sugar based on your preference.
• Let it rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps flavors meld together.
• Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Choosing the right side dishes can complement your slow cooker chicken and broccoli beautifully. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fragrant rice pairs perfectly with the savory sauce from your dish.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes add richness that balances well with the lighter chicken and broccoli.
3. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables stir-fried in sesame oil will add color and crunch.
4. Crispy Egg Rolls: These crispy appetizers provide a fun textural contrast alongside your main dish.
5. Asian Slaw: A light slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing offers refreshing crunch.
6. Fried Rice: Transform leftover rice into fried rice by sautéing it with eggs, peas, and carrots for added flavor.
7. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can serve as a comforting starter before diving into your main course.
8. Pickled Vegetables: A side of pickled veggies adds zing to balance out the richness of the chicken dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe even better. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Adding too many ingredients can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recipe for best results.
• Using Frozen Chicken: Cooking frozen chicken can result in an unsafe temperature. Always use fresh or thawed chicken for optimal flavor and safety.
• Neglecting to Sauté Aromatics: Skipping the step of sautéing garlic and ginger can dull flavors. Take a moment to sauté them before adding to the slow cooker.
• Ignoring Liquid Measurements: Too little liquid can cause burning, while too much can dilute flavors. Measure carefully for a balanced dish.
• Not Thicking the Sauce Properly: If you skip the cornstarch step, your sauce may be too thin. Always thicken it as directed for that perfect consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags.
• It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals until hot, stirring often.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a pan, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions regarding the slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe:

Can I use other vegetables in this Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.

How long does this Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe take?

The total cooking time is about 6 hours and 30 minutes, with 4-6 hours on low followed by 30 minutes on high.

Is this Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe healthy?

Absolutely! This recipe is packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from broccoli, making it a wholesome meal option.

Can I double this Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe?

Yes! Just ensure your slow cooker has enough capacity to accommodate the extra ingredients without overcrowding.

Final Thoughts

This slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting seasonings according to your taste. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!