Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
This incredible Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s a go-to dish that will impress everyone at the table. The tender chicken and vibrant broccoli come together in a savory sauce that’s both comforting and satisfying. Plus, this recipe is versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences while being packed with nutrients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: Simply toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the magic while you focus on other tasks.
- Flavorful Meal: The blend of garlic, ginger, and savory sauces creates a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and vitamins from broccoli, this recipe makes for a nutritious dinner option.
- Family-Friendly: A hit among kids and adults alike, making mealtime enjoyable for everyone.
- Makes Great Leftovers: Enjoy delicious leftovers that can be easily reheated for lunch or dinner the next day.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smoother, having the right tools is essential. Here are some kitchen essentials you’ll need to prepare the Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups
- Mixing bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: The star of this recipe; it allows for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors over time.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping your ingredients efficiently.
- Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for quickly cutting chicken and vegetables into manageable pieces.
- Measuring cups: Ensures you use just the right amount of sauces and liquids for perfect flavor balance.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 750g (1.7 lb) chicken breast, cut into chunks
- 2 onions, quartered
- 3 tsp garlic, crushed
- 2 tsp ginger, minced
For the Sauce
- 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
- 2 Tbsp cornstarch
- 3 Tbsp water
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
In your slow cooker, add the chunks of chicken breast along with quartered onions, crushed garlic, minced ginger, chicken stock, soy sauce, brown sugar, oyster sauce, and sesame oil.
Step 2: Cook on Low
Set your slow cooker to low heat. Allow everything to cook for about 4–6 hours. This slow cooking process helps all the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, combine cornstarch with water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker after the initial cooking time.
Step 4: Add Broccoli
Now it’s time to add those vibrant broccoli florets into your slow cooker. Stir them gently into the mixture.
Step 5: Cook on High
Switch your slow cooker setting to high heat. Let it cook for an additional 30 minutes or until the sauce thickens up nicely and the broccoli becomes hot.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Once ready, serve this delicious Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli over rice or noodles. Enjoy your meal!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
Serving your slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe can be as delightful as preparing it. The dish is versatile and pairs well with various sides, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners or gatherings.
Serve Over Rice
- White rice: A classic choice that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Brown rice: A healthier alternative with a nutty flavor.
- Jasmine rice: Offers a fragrant aroma that complements the dish beautifully.
In Lettuce Wraps
- Butter lettuce: Provides a fresh crunch and is easy to wrap.
- Romaine hearts: Adds a crisp texture while holding the filling securely.
With Noodles
- Rice noodles: A gluten-free option that pairs well with the sauce.
- Lo mein: Chewy noodles that absorb flavors excellently.
Topped with Green Onions
- Sliced green onions: Adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor.
- Toasted sesame seeds: Enhance the dish’s presentation and add nutty notes.
Side Salad
- Mixed greens: Light and refreshing, balancing the richness of the dish.
- Cucumber salad: Offers a cool crunch that complements the warm chicken and broccoli.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
To elevate your slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe, consider these simple tips for optimal flavor and texture.
- Choose quality chicken: Fresh chicken breast makes a significant difference in taste.
- Marinate overnight: Letting the chicken soak in the sauce overnight enhances flavor absorption.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste during cooking; add more soy sauce or sugar if needed for balance.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger provide a vibrant flavor compared to dried alternatives.
- Don’t overcook broccoli: Add it towards the end of cooking to maintain its bright color and crunch.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy rice that complements the savory sauce perfectly.
- Garlic Bread: A crunchy side that can be perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances well with savory flavors.
- Asian Slaw: A crunchy salad with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds freshness.
- Quinoa Salad: Nutritious quinoa tossed with veggies provides a hearty contrast.
- Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy adds a touch of Asian flair to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making this slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time.
- Using Frozen Chicken: Frozen chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Always use fresh or properly thawed chicken for the best results.
- Not Browning the Chicken: Skipping the browning step can reduce flavor. Sear the chicken in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker for a richer taste.
- Overcooking Broccoli: Adding broccoli too early may cause it to become mushy. Add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a perfect texture.
- Ignoring Seasoning Balancing: Using too much soy sauce can make your dish overly salty. Taste and adjust seasonings as you go along for balanced flavors.
- Not Using Enough Liquid: A lack of liquid could result in dry chicken. Make sure to measure your stock accurately to keep everything juicy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in airtight containers.
- The dish is good for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
- Freeze in portion-sized airtight containers or freezer bags.
- It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring frequently, until hot throughout.
- Stovetop: Reheat on low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe.
Can I use other vegetables?
You can definitely add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. Just be mindful of their cooking times.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To lighten it up, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar and use low-sodium soy sauce.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare all ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
What should I serve with Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe?
This dish pairs well with rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
This slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or sauces. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without much effort. Give it a try; you’ll love how easy it is!
Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This dish combines tender chicken and vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce that is both comforting and satisfying. With minimal prep time, simply toss your ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you focus on your day. Packed with protein and vitamins, this nutritious meal caters to various dietary preferences, making it a versatile addition to your dinner rotation. Plus, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike! Enjoy delicious leftovers that can easily be reheated for lunch or dinner the next day.
Ingredients
- 750g chicken breast, cut into chunks
- 2 onions, quartered
- 3 tsp garlic, crushed
- 2 tsp ginger, minced
- 250ml chicken stock
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup oyster sauce
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 500g broccoli florets
Instructions
- In the slow cooker, add chicken chunks, quartered onions, garlic, ginger, chicken stock, soy sauce, brown sugar, oyster sauce, and sesame oil.
- Set the slow cooker to low heat for 4–6 hours.
- After cooking, mix cornstarch with water in a bowl until smooth. Stir into the slow cooker.
- Add broccoli florets gently into the mixture.
- Switch to high heat and cook for an additional 30 minutes until thickened.
- Serve over rice or noodles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
