Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
This incredible Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Packed with bold flavors and tender chicken, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work. Enjoy a wholesome meal that brings together the goodness of chicken and broccoli, ideal for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: Just throw all the ingredients into your slow cooker, and you’re set!
- Flavorful Dish: A delightful blend of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil creates a rich taste.
- Family-Friendly: This recipe yields six servings, making it perfect for families or meal prep.
- Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with lean protein and nutritious broccoli, it’s a wholesome choice.
- Versatile Meal: Pair it with rice or noodles to customize your dining experience.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need for this recipe.
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 while infusing flavors over hours.
- Cutting board: Protects your counters while prepping ingredients safely.
- Knife: A good knife makes chopping chicken and veggies quick and easy.
Ingredients
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe features simple yet delicious ingredients:
Chicken and Vegetables
- 750g (1.7 lb) chicken breast, cut into chunks
- 2 onions, quartered
- 3 tsp garlic, crushed
- 2 tsp ginger, minced
Sauces and Seasonings
- 250ml (8.5 fl oz) chicken stock
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup oyster sauce
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
Final Touches
- 500g (1.1 lb) broccoli florets, room temperature
- 2 Tbsp cornstarch
- 3 Tbsp water
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
In a slow cooker, add the following:
– Chicken chunks
– Quartered onions
– Crushed garlic
– Minced ginger
– Chicken stock
– Soy sauce
– Brown sugar
– Oyster sauce
– Sesame oil
Step 2: Set Cooking Time
Cook on low for 4-6 hours. This allows all flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
Mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl:
1. Stir until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce.
Step 4: Add Broccoli
Add broccoli florets to the slow cooker:
– Ensure they are well-coated with sauce.
Step 5: Final Cooking Phase
Cook on high for roughly 30 minutes or until thickened:
– Check that broccoli is tender but still vibrant green.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
Spoon over rice or noodles if desired, then serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
Serving your slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe can elevate the dining experience. Here are some ideas to make it even more delightful.
Over Steamed Rice
- Serve the dish over a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a comforting meal. The rice absorbs the flavors from the sauce beautifully.
With Noodles
- Pair it with boiled noodles, such as egg or rice noodles, for a satisfying texture that complements the chicken and broccoli.
In Lettuce Wraps
- Spoon the mixture into crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh and crunchy option. This adds a fun twist and is great for those looking for lighter fare.
With Quinoa
- For a healthier alternative, serve with quinoa. It’s packed with protein and works well with the savory flavors of the dish.
On a Bed of Cauliflower Rice
- For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice makes an excellent base. It mimics traditional rice while keeping calories in check.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
Perfecting your slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe can enhance its flavor and texture. Here are some tips to consider:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will give your dish vibrant flavors compared to dried versions.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your slow cooker model, you might need to adjust cooking times for optimal tenderness.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added nutrition and color.
- Experiment with Sauces: Try different sauces like teriyaki or hoisin for unique flavor profiles that suit your taste.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase the cornstarch mixture or cook it longer after adding broccoli.
- Garnish Wisely: Top with sesame seeds or chopped green onions before serving for an attractive presentation.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe can enhance your meal. Here are some suggestions:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice complements the dish perfectly with its subtle aroma.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread can soak up the delicious sauce while adding extra flavor.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of stir-fried veggies adds color and additional nutrients to your plate.
- Crispy Potatoes: Roasted or fried potatoes provide a satisfying crunch that balances the softness of the main dish.
- Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds crunch and contrast.
- Egg Drop Soup: A warm bowl of this simple soup is perfect as an appetizer before enjoying the main course.
- Spring Rolls: These crispy delights serve as a fantastic starter or side, packed with fresh veggies.
- Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich chicken and broccoli.
These side dishes will surely round out your meal, making it memorable!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people make common mistakes when preparing a slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using frozen chicken – Frozen chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Always use fresh or thawed chicken for the best results.
- Overcooking the broccoli – Broccoli cooks quickly in the slow cooker. Add it later in the cooking process to retain its vibrant color and nutrients.
- Skipping the seasoning – Failing to season adequately can result in bland flavors. Be generous with your sauces and spices for a more flavorful dish.
- Not checking the consistency – If your sauce is too thin, it might not coat the chicken well. Mix cornstarch with water before adding it for a thicker consistency.
- Ignoring the cooking times – Cooking on high or low without following recommended times can lead to overcooked or undercooked ingredients. Stick to suggested timings for perfect results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Let the dish cool completely before sealing it in a container.
Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
- Freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
- Label containers with dates for easy tracking.
Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium heat, stirring regularly until fully warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe:
What is a Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe?
A slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe is a simple dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and savory sauces cooked slowly for enhanced flavors.
Can I use different vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to customize your dish by adding bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas along with broccoli.
How do I make this recipe healthier?
To make this recipe healthier, you can reduce the brown sugar or use low-sodium soy sauce. Adding more vegetables also boosts nutrition.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure your slow cooker has enough capacity and adjust cooking times if necessary.
How do I know when my chicken is done?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when it’s fully cooked.
Final Thoughts
This slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe is not just delicious; it’s versatile too! You can easily adapt it by adding various vegetables or tweaking flavors to suit your taste. Give it a try; you’ll love how simple yet satisfying it is!
Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
Indulge in the mouthwatering taste of this Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe, designed for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. With tender chicken infused with a savory blend of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also delivers bold flavors that everyone will love. Simply toss your ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you focus on other tasks. Whether served over fluffy rice or tossed with noodles, you’ll enjoy a wholesome meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 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
- 500g (1.1 lb) broccoli florets
Instructions
- In your slow cooker, combine chicken chunks, onions, garlic, ginger, chicken stock, soy sauce, brown sugar, oyster sauce, and sesame oil.
- Set the cooker on low for 4-6 hours until flavors meld.
- To thicken the sauce, mix cornstarch with water until smooth; then add it to the slow cooker.
- Stir in broccoli florets and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes until tender.
- Serve warm over rice or noodles.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
