Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli

Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli is the perfect one-pot meal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. This creamy, flavorful dish is not only packed with protein and fiber but also incredibly easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Minimal chopping and prep work make it ideal for busy lifestyles.
• Nutritious and Balanced: Chicken is lean and high in protein, while broccoli provides essential vitamins and minerals.
• Customizable: Easily tweak this recipe to suit your dietary preferences or flavor cravings.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Even picky eaters love its creamy texture and savory flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Chicken Breasts or Chicken Thighs: Both work well, though thighs are juicier.
• Broccoli Florets: Fresh or frozen broccoli is fine; they add color, texture, and nutrients.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: A can of this adds a creamy base.
• Chicken Broth: Enhances the depth of flavor.
• Garlic and Onion Powder: Simple spices that pack a punch.
• Cheddar Cheese: For that irresistible gooey, cheesy finish.
• Optional Additions: Rice or pasta for a complete meal.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli

• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: To keep it vibrant and crisp-tender, add it in the last hour of cooking if you prefer it less soft.
• Use a Crockpot Liner: For easy cleanup, a slow cooker liner works wonders.
• Add Dairy at the End: To prevent curdling, stir in cheese, milk, or cream during the final 30 minutes of cooking.
• Shred or Cube the Chicken: Shredding the chicken makes it easier to mix with the sauce, while cubed chicken gives a chunkier texture.

Variations

• Low-Carb Version: Skip the rice or pasta and serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and broth.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Asian-Inspired: Swap the cream of chicken soup for soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, and top with sesame seeds and green onions.

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli

• Over Rice: White, brown, or jasmine rice soaks up the delicious sauce.
• With Pasta: Penne, fettuccine, or egg noodles pair wonderfully with the creamy chicken and broccoli.
• With Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side that complements this dish.
• In a Wrap: Use the shredded chicken and broccoli mix as a filling for tortillas.

How to Store and Reheat

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli freezes well! Place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Recipe FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes! Just make sure to increase the cooking time slightly and ensure the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F.

2. Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Mushrooms, carrots, and bell peppers make excellent additions to this recipe.

3. What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

You can make your own by mixing chicken broth, milk, and a roux made from flour and butter.

4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes. Replace the cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use a dairy-free cream soup substitute.

5. How can I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then stir it into the crockpot and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes.

Why Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli is a Must-Try

This simple yet flavorful dish brings together the best of comfort food with a healthy twist. Perfect for meal prepping, feeding a family, or simply enjoying leftovers throughout the week, Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli is a versatile and dependable recipe. Plus, the ability to customize it to fit any dietary needs makes it a go-to choice for everyone.

Try these other chicken recipes:

• Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken
• Crockpot Chicken Adobo
• Crockpot Bourbon Chicken