Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy a comforting bowl of Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli that's easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli is a simple yet hearty dish that the whole family will love. Cooking in a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tender chicken simmered to perfection
- Nutritious broccoli adds a vibrant touch
- Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
A Simple Family Meal
Finding a meal that pleases the whole family can be a daunting task, but this Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli makes it easy. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that is both nutritious and satisfying. The beauty of a crockpot meal lies in its ability to meld flavors over time, ensuring that each bite is bursting with taste while requiring minimal effort from you.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. You can prepare everything in the morning, set it to cook, and come home to a delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen. Not only does this save you time, but it also allows you to spend more quality time with your loved ones instead of slaving away in the kitchen.
Nutritional Benefits
Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet. Paired with broccoli, which is high in vitamins C and K, this dish offers a wholesome meal that supports your family's well-being. Broccoli is also packed with fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer, making it a smart addition to any dinner table.
Furthermore, the use of low-sodium soy sauce allows you to enjoy the flavors without excessive sodium intake. By controlling the ingredients in your meals, you can ensure that your family is receiving the nutrients they need without compromising on taste.
Customization Options
One of the great aspects of this crockpot chicken and broccoli recipe is its versatility. Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, snap peas, or bell peppers to enhance the nutritional profile and add a pop of color. You can also experiment with different spices or sauces to tailor the dish to your family's taste preferences.
If you're looking for a heartier meal, consider serving this dish over rice, quinoa, or noodles. This not only makes it more filling but also helps soak up the delicious sauce. The options are endless, allowing you to create a meal that your family will love time and time again.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Broccoli
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to chop your broccoli into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the Liquids
In a separate bowl, mix the chicken broth, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.
Cook the Chicken
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Add Broccoli
About 30 minutes before serving, add the broccoli to the crockpot, stirring gently to combine.
Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir this into the crockpot to thicken the sauce. Cook for an additional 10 minutes.
Serve
Shred the chicken with two forks and stir everything together before serving. Enjoy!
Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
To ensure the chicken remains juicy and tender, avoid overcooking. If you have a busy schedule, using a timer can help you manage the cooking times effectively. Remember that every crockpot is different; you might need to adjust the cooking time based on your specific model.
For an even more flavorful dish, marinate the chicken in the soy sauce mixture for a few hours prior to cooking. This extra step allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more delicious final product.
Serving Suggestions
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli is best served fresh. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for a delightful presentation. Pair it with a side salad or some homemade bread for a complete meal that will satisfy everyone at the table.
Consider making extra sauce to drizzle over your rice or noodles, enhancing the overall flavor. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making for a quick and easy lunch or dinner option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted. Ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to be safe for consumption.
What can I substitute for soy sauce? For a gluten-free option, consider using tamari or coconut aminos. These alternatives provide a similar flavor profile without the gluten, making the dish accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but adjust the cooking time accordingly, increasing it by about an hour.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this dish can be frozen. Just ensure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli
Enjoy a comforting bowl of Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli that's easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Created by: Abigail Foster
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken and Broccoli
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot. Season with salt and pepper.
In a separate bowl, mix the chicken broth, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
About 30 minutes before serving, add the broccoli to the crockpot, stirring gently to combine.
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir this into the crockpot to thicken the sauce. Cook for an additional 10 minutes.
Shred the chicken with two forks and stir everything together before serving. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 890mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g