This slow cooker chicken and broccoli dish is a real winner! Tender chicken and fresh broccoli cook together in a tasty sauce that makes your house smell amazing.
I love how easy it is! Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work. It’s perfect with rice or noodles for a simple and yummy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs or Breasts: I often go with thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work too. If you’re looking for a lighter option or want to avoid poultry, try using tofu, tempeh, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is my favorite for its crunch, but frozen is super convenient and still healthy. If broccoli isn’t your thing, feel free to swap in other veggies like snap peas or bell peppers.
Soy Sauce: I like using low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness. Tamari is a great gluten-free option. You can also use coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative, offering a slightly sweeter taste.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both sweeteners work well, but I usually use honey for its nice depth of flavor. If you need it vegan, maple syrup is a great choice! Agave syrup is another alternative if you have it on hand.
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a nutty flavor that really boosts the dish. If you’re out, you can use olive oil, but the dish will lack that signature taste. Keep sesame oil for that authentic touch!
How Can You Ensure the Chicken is Tender and Flavorful?
The key to tender chicken in this recipe is the slow cooking process. The low heat makes it super soft. Make sure to layer your ingredients properly to keep the flavors locked in. Here’s how to get the best results:
- Start by placing the chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker to soak up juices from the broth and sauces above.
- Cover the slow cooker well; it retains moisture and keeps the chicken tender.
- Cook on low. Avoid lifting the lid too often, as it lets heat escape and may extend cooking time.
- If using frozen broccoli, add it about 30 minutes before the end for perfect flavor and texture.
For thickening, mixing cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry is key. It helps reach that desired sauce consistency. Just be patient while it thickens—about 10 minutes more in the slow cooker should do the trick!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
For Thickening (Optional):
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds
For Serving:
- Cooked rice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This slow cooker chicken and broccoli dish will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and then 4 to 6 hours to cook. Just set it and forget it for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts in your slow cooker. This is where all the flavor will come together!
2. Add the Flavors:
Pour the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), and sesame oil over the chicken. Next, add the minced garlic and grated (or ground) ginger. Give it a gentle mix to make sure everything is coated.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. The chicken is done when it’s cooked through and tender. You can go about your day while the flavors infuse!
4. Add the Broccoli:
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve the meal, add the broccoli florets to the slow cooker. Stir them in gently and cover again so they can steam nicely.
5. Thickening the Sauce (Optional):
If you like a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a couple of tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Pour this into the slow cooker and stir well. Let it cook for another 10 minutes on low until the sauce thickens.
6. Final Touches:
Once everything is ready, you can shred the chicken in the sauce using two forks for a pulled chicken effect, or leave it whole if that’s what you prefer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious chicken and broccoli over a bed of cooked rice. Top with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a nice touch. Enjoy your hearty meal!
## FAQ Section
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken thighs or breasts, but make sure to extend the cooking time by an hour or so. Also, check that the chicken reaches at least 165°F (75°C) for safety. Cooking from frozen may require a longer time on low heat, approximately 6-7 hours instead of 4-6 hours.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
No problem! Simply substitute the soy sauce with tamari, which is a gluten-free alternative. Additionally, ensure that the chicken broth and any other condiments you use are gluten-free. This will ensure your meal is safe for gluten-sensitive diets!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the dish for up to 3 months. When reheating, gently warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can customize this dish with additional vegetables. Options like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots work wonderfully. Add them in with the broccoli during the last 30 minutes of cooking so they remain fresh and crisp!
