This Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli is a hassle-free meal that’s packed with yummy flavors! Juicy chicken swims in a tasty sauce, while tender broccoli adds a pop of color and crunch.
It’s so simple to prepare; just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. I love serving it over rice for a cozy dinner that makes my kitchen smell amazing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless skinless chicken breast is ideal for this recipe because it cooks nicely and absorbs flavors well. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try chicken thighs, which stay juicy and tender.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add great color and nutrition. If you can’t find fresh, frozen broccoli works, too! Just adjust the cooking time a bit since it’s already blanched.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce keeps the dish flavorful without being too salty. If you’re gluten-free, substitute with tamari or coconut aminos for a similar effect.
Honey: Honey provides natural sweetness and balances the saltiness of the soy sauce. Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used if you prefer a vegan option.
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a delicious nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use olive oil, but it won’t have the same depth. Light sesame oil or toasted sesame oil also offer different flavor profiles—use toasted for a richer taste.
How Can I Make Sure My Broccoli is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking broccoli in a slow cooker needs a little timing focus to keep it bright and tender without being mushy. Here’s the best way:
- Add the broccoli about 30 minutes before the end of cooking. This steaming will ensure it retains its nutrients and crunch.
- Make sure to cover the slow cooker after adding the broccoli to trap steam and heat effectively.
- If you’re using frozen broccoli, you can add it just a bit earlier, around 45 minutes before serving, to ensure it cooks through.
By following these tips, your broccoli will be tender yet still vibrant and delicious alongside your chicken!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds
- Cooked rice (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 4 to 5 hours to cook in the slow cooker. Just mix everything and set it, then you can relax while your meal is cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Give everything a good stir to make sure the chicken is well coated in the sauce. This will infuse the chicken with great flavor!
2. Set to Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let it cook for about 4 to 5 hours, or until the chicken is completely cooked through and tender. The longer it cooks, the more tender it will become, making it easier to shred later.
3. Add Broccoli:
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve the dish, add the broccoli florets directly into the slow cooker. Give it a gentle stir to mix it in with the chicken and sauce. Cover again and let the broccoli steam, which will make it tender and perfectly cooked.
4. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you like a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a little water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker and cook for an additional 15 to 30 minutes. This will help the sauce get nice and thick!
5. Shred and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it right in the slow cooker. Mix it well with the broccoli and sauce so that everything is combined. Serve the chicken and broccoli over cooked rice, and top it off with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a lovely finishing touch!
Enjoy your delicious homemade Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli! It’s a warm and hearty meal that’s both easy to make and satisfying to eat.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen chicken, just be sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the slow cooker. A quick method is to submerge the sealed chicken in cold water for a couple of hours or leave it in the fridge overnight. Pat it dry to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you need a soy sauce alternative, you can use tamari, which is gluten-free, or coconut aminos for a lower-sodium option. Both will provide a similar savory flavor, so feel free to adjust to your taste!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the chicken and broccoli mixture for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. When reheating, make sure it’s warmed through to 165°F for safety!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Of course! This recipe is very versatile. You can add bell peppers, snap peas, or even carrots to the slow cooker along with the broccoli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if you’re adding denser vegetables to ensure everything is tender.
