Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

This Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines tender chicken with vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. With its wholesome ingredients and comforting taste, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Just toss everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it. Perfect for busy lifestyles!
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates a depth of flavor that will impress everyone at the table.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from the broccoli, this meal is both satisfying and wholesome.
• Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, making it great for family dinners.
• Versatile Meal Prep: Ideal for meal prepping; you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious slow cooker dish, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for hands-off cooking, perfect for busy days.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping your ingredients.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts, making prep quick and easy.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best flavors in your recipe.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to prepare this flavorful dish:

For the Chicken and Sauce

• 750g (1.7 lb) chicken breast, cut into chunks
• 2 onions, quartered
• 3 tsp garlic, crushed
• 2 tsp ginger, minced
• 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 Broccoli

• 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 a slow cooker, add the following ingredients:
1. The chicken chunks
2. The quartered onions
3. The crushed garlic
4. The minced ginger
5. The chicken stock
6. The soy sauce
7. The brown sugar
8. The oyster sauce
9. The sesame oil

Step 2: Set Cooking Time

Cook on low for 4-6 hours until the chicken is tender.

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch with water. Stir until smooth.
2. Add this mixture to the slow cooker and stir well.

Step 4: Add Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets. Stir gently to combine with other ingredients.

Step 5: Final Cooking Phase

Cook on high for approximately 30 minutes or until thickened and heated through.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Once ready, serve hot over rice or noodles for a complete meal! Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

This slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe is a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides. You can elevate your dining experience by trying out different serving suggestions that complement its flavors beautifully.

Serve with Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice absorbs the delicious sauce, making every bite delightful.
• Brown Rice: A healthier alternative, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and complements the dish well.

Add Noodles

• Lo Mein Noodles: Tossed with some sesame oil, these noodles soak up the sauce and add a satisfying texture.
• Rice Noodles: Gluten-free and light, they work wonderfully with the chicken and broccoli.

Pair with Salads

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that provides crunch and balances the savory dish.
• Asian Slaw: This tangy slaw adds a nice contrast to the richness of the chicken.

Garnish Ideas

• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions give a fresh finish to each serving.

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How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

To make this slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger intensify the flavors in your dish.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your slow cooker, you may need to tweak the cooking time for best results.
• Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it cook longer after adding cornstarch.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your slow cooker chicken and broccoli enhances the meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options:

1. Fried Rice: A classic choice that brings additional flavor; consider using leftover rice for convenience.
2. Quinoa Salad: Packed with protein, quinoa adds a nutritious element that complements your main dish.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a lovely contrast in texture.
4. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate; it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy on the outside yet soft inside; they offer a satisfying crunch alongside your meal.
6. Miso Soup: Light yet flavorful, it’s an excellent way to start your meal before diving into the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish significantly. Here are some key mistakes to steer clear of:

• Overcrowding the slow cooker: When you add too much chicken or broccoli, it can cook unevenly. Make sure there’s enough space for the heat to circulate.
• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the chicken first can lead to less flavor. Sear your chicken in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker for a richer taste.
• Ignoring the cooking times: Cooking on high for too long can dry out the chicken. Stick to the recommended cooking times for optimal results.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using old or frozen broccoli may affect texture and flavor. Always choose fresh, crisp broccoli for best results.
• Forgetting to adjust seasoning: Taste your dish before serving. Adding a bit more soy sauce or seasoning can elevate its flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

• Freeze in individual portions using freezer bags or airtight containers.
• It can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good side dish for Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe?

Rice or quinoa pairs well with this dish, absorbing the delicious sauce.

Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?

While fresh broccoli is preferred, you can use frozen. Just add it towards the end of cooking.

How do I make Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe healthier?

You can reduce sugar or use low-sodium soy sauce for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.

Can I substitute other vegetables?

Yes! Carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas work great alongside chicken and broccoli.

Final Thoughts

This slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe offers a wonderful blend of flavors that will delight your family at dinner time. Its versatility allows you to customize with various vegetables or spices according to your preferences. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!