Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

This incredible slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe will certainly impress. It is loaded with flavor and can easily feed a hungry family, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The dish combines tender chicken with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce that delights the taste buds. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and requires minimal hands-on time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Simply toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of garlic, ginger, and savory sauces creates a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or even meal prep for the week.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from chicken and vitamins from broccoli, this dish is nourishing without sacrificing flavor.
• Leftover Friendly: Enjoy delicious leftovers that taste great reheated or as part of another meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools. Having the right kitchen equipment makes preparing this slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Cutting Board
• Sharp Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: The star of this recipe! It allows flavors to meld together while you focus on other tasks.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for chopping ingredients safely and efficiently.
• Sharp Knife: Ensures precise cuts, making your prep work quick and easy.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Base

• 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

For the Vegetables

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

For Thickening the Sauce

• 2 Tbsp cornstarch
• 3 Tbsp water

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Step 1: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

In a slow cooker, add the chunks of chicken breast, quartered onions, crushed garlic, minced ginger, chicken stock, soy sauce, brown sugar, oyster sauce, and sesame oil.

Step 2: Cook on Low Heat

Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the chicken becomes tender.

Step 3: Prepare Cornstarch Mixture

Mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl until smooth. Then stir this mixture into the slow cooker during the last stages of cooking.

Step 4: Add Broccoli

Once you’ve added the cornstarch mixture, gently fold in the broccoli florets.

Step 5: Cook Until Thickened

Cook on high for roughly 30 minutes or until the sauce has thickened and the broccoli is hot.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Dish out your delicious slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe onto plates or bowls. Enjoy it over rice or noodles if desired!

This easy-to-follow guide will help you create a delightful meal that your family will love!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Serving your slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe can elevate the dining experience for you and your family. Here are some delicious suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Serve Over Rice

• White Rice: Fluffy white rice complements the dish perfectly, soaking up the rich sauce.
• Brown Rice: A healthier alternative that adds a nutty flavor to the meal.
• Fried Rice: For an extra twist, serve with fried rice featuring vegetables and eggs.

Pair with Noodles

• Lo Mein: Soft noodles that blend beautifully with the chicken and broccoli flavors.
• Udon: Thick, chewy udon noodles add a hearty touch to this dish.
• Rice Noodles: Gluten-free option that works well with the savory sauce.

Add Fresh Garnishes

• Green Onions: Chopped green onions on top provide a fresh crunch.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a delightful nutty flavor.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro leaves brighten up the dish with herbal notes.

Include a Salad

• Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad can balance out the richness of the main dish.
• Asian Slaw: Crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing pairs well.

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How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

To ensure your slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe is always a hit, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breast for better flavor and texture in your dish.
• Adjust Sauce Levels: Feel free to tweak soy sauce or sugar according to your taste preferences for sweet or salty notes.
• Use Frozen Broccoli: If you’re short on time, frozen broccoli florets can be added directly without defrosting.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary by slow cooker; check for doneness at 4 hours on low.
• Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add more cornstarch mixed with water toward the end of cooking.
• Let It Rest: Allowing your dish to stand for a few minutes before serving enhances flavor integration.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Complementing your slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe with side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: Lightly fragrant rice that absorbs the savory sauce well.
2. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas adds freshness and crunch.
3. Egg Fried Rice: A flavorful way to use leftover rice cooked with eggs and vegetables for extra texture.
4. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your main dish.
5. Quinoa Salad: A protein-rich salad made from quinoa mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs.
6. Miso Soup: Light miso soup serves as an excellent starter before diving into this hearty meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe even better. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Using frozen chicken: Frozen chicken can release excess water, making the dish soggy. Always use fresh or thawed chicken for the best texture.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Filling the slow cooker too full can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recommended quantities for optimal results.
• Skipping the browning step: Not browning your chicken before adding it to the slow cooker can lead to a lack of flavor. Take a few minutes to sear the chicken for added depth.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Each brand of soy sauce has a different salt level. Taste and adjust your seasoning as needed to suit your preferences.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking on low for too long can dry out the chicken. Ensure you monitor the time to keep your dish juicy and flavorful.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and consume within 2-3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat in a pan, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe.

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

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

How can I make this recipe healthier?

You can reduce sodium by using low-sodium soy sauce or increase veggies for added fiber without affecting taste.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles. You can also serve it with a side salad for a complete meal.

Can I prepare this Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep all ingredients the night before, store them in the fridge, and then start cooking in the morning.

Final Thoughts

This slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting the sauces used. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!