Imagine coming home to the delightful aroma of savory chicken and tender broccoli wafting from your kitchen. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with this Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli recipe! This dish is a culinary hug—rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying, it brings together the simplicity of a slow cooker with fresh, healthy ingredients. Did you know that cooking with a slow cooker not only saves time but also locks in flavors that make your meals taste incredible? This chicken and broccoli combination is perfect for busy weeknights when you want comfort food without the fuss. It’s family-friendly, wholesome, and, best of all, requires minimal hands-on effort, allowing you to focus on what really matters—spending time with your loved ones. If you enjoy this recipe, you might also love our one-pot creamy chicken pasta for your next cozy dinner! So roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress your family with this mouthwatering dish!
What is Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli?
You might be wondering, “What’s ‘Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli’ all about?” Well, it’s precisely what it sounds like—a delicious mix of poultry and veggies brought together in a slow cooker, where dreams of hassle-free cooking come true! Think of it as a culinary symphony where your slow cooker serves as the conductor, harmonizing tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a delightfully creamy sauce. The origin of this dish could be as simple as someone wanting to whip up a nutritious dinner without breaking a sweat (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love knowing that dinner is taken care of?). As the old saying goes, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”—and this dish is a surefire way to win everyone over at the dinner table! Why not give it a try?
Why You’ll Love This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli
This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli dish has it all! First, the highlights: tender, juicy chicken and vibrant, fresh broccoli swim in a creamy sauce that makes every bite feel indulgent. Who doesn’t enjoy a meal that feels like a treat, yet is easy to prepare? Second, cooking this dish at home is a fantastic way to save money compared to takeout—or even those pricey pre-packaged meals from the grocery store. You get the benefits of healthy, wholesome ingredients without the guilt! Finally, let’s talk about the special touch. The creamy sauce, made from a combination of cream of chicken soup and herbs, elevates this dish to new heights. For a twist, check out our equally delicious lemon garlic chicken—another crowd-pleasing meal that’s sure to be a win with the family! Ready to crown your weeknight dinners with this slow-cooked delight? Let’s dive in!
How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli
Quick Overview
Picture this: a crowd-pleasing meal that practically cooks itself! With minimal prep time and the magic of the slow cooker, you can whip up a dish that’s not only delicious but also provides a creamy, rich texture that everyone craves. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and in just a few hours, a fulfilling meal awaits you. What more could you ask for?
Key Ingredients for Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. It’s the star of the show after all!
- Add the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this creamy mixture over the chicken, ensuring it is well-coated.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Your kitchen will soon be filled with irresistible aromas!
- Add the Broccoli: About 30 minutes before serving, add the fresh broccoli florets to the slow cooker. This will allow them to cook to tender perfection.
- Serve: When everything is cooked through and tender, shred the chicken right inside the slow cooker using two forks. Mix everything gently to combine. If you’d like a cheesy finish, sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top and let it melt.
- Plate Up: Serve this delicious dish warm over cooked rice and enjoy!
What to Serve Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli With
This hearty meal pairs wonderfully with various sides! Consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad for a refreshing crunch, or fluffy garlic bread to soak up that creamy sauce. For a balanced meal, you can also add an array of steamed vegetables like carrots or green beans. Pair it all with a nice glass of iced tea for that quintessential comfort food experience.
Top Tips for Perfecting Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli
To make sure your creation turns out perfectly, consider these handy tips! First, don’t forget to season your chicken thoroughly; a little salt and pepper will elevate the flavor significantly. If you’re in the mood for twists, experiment with different veggies or add some spice with crushed red pepper flakes. And remember, the longer you cook, the more tender the chicken will be! Keep an eye on it, as overcooking can lead to dryness. Finally, for a lighter version, try substituting Greek yogurt for some of the cream of chicken soup.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Awesome! Store any remaining chicken and broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, feel free to freeze it in portions—just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. A splash of chicken broth can help rehydrate it for optimal taste!
This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli recipe is not just a meal; it’s a brilliant blend of convenience, flavor, and nutrition that your whole family will adore. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your slow cooker and get ready for a delightful culinary experience!
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts The main protein for the dish.
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets Add 30 minutes before serving for tender texture.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup Provides the creamy base.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth Keeps the dish moist.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Adds flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder Adds extra flavor.
- to taste salt and pepper Customize seasoning.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Optional topping for extra richness.
- cooked rice For serving.
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, mix together cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the chicken, ensuring it is well-coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the fresh broccoli florets to the slow cooker.
- When everything is cooked through and tender, shred the chicken using two forks and mix everything gently to combine.
- If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and let it melt before serving.
- Serve warm over cooked rice.
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