Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Discover the delightful flavors of our Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli. This easy-to-make recipe transforms simple ingredients into a comforting dish that the whole family will love.
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli recipe has been a staple in our home for years. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a savory sauce makes it a go-to dish for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tender chicken cooked to perfection in a savory sauce
- Healthy broccoli adds a vibrant crunch
- Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
A Perfect Weeknight Meal
When it comes to weeknight dinners, simplicity is key. Our Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli epitomizes ease without compromising on flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that requires minimal hands-on time. Simply season your chicken and let the crockpot do the heavy lifting. This dish not only saves you time but also ensures that you can enjoy quality moments with your family while dinner cooks itself.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit your family's tastes or dietary preferences. Whether you want to add extra vegetables, switch up the proteins, or even adjust the sauce for a different flavor profile, the possibilities are endless. This makes it a fantastic choice for busy families who want to keep mealtime interesting.
Nutritional Benefits
Not only is this dish delicious, but it's also packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken breasts are a lean source of protein, making them an excellent choice for a healthy diet. Combined with broccoli, which is rich in vitamins K and C, fiber, and antioxidants, this meal supports overall health and wellness. Eating a balanced meal like this one can help you feel energized and satisfied, without the guilt.
Moreover, the inclusion of honey in the sauce adds a touch of natural sweetness without relying on refined sugars. This allows you to enjoy a savory dish that caters to your health-conscious mindset. By preparing meals like this at home, you can control the ingredients and portion sizes, contributing to a healthier lifestyle for you and your loved ones.
Perfect Pairings
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli can be served in various ways, making it a versatile addition to your dinner repertoire. For a classic approach, serve it over fluffy white rice or whole grain rice for added texture and nutrition. Alternatively, you can pair it with noodles, which will soak up the savory sauce beautifully, creating a satisfying meal.
For those looking to add a little extra flair, consider garnishing your dish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions before serving. These toppings not only enhance the visual appeal but also add extra layers of flavor. A side of steamed rice or a fresh salad can elevate the meal further, ensuring that everyone at the table leaves satisfied.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients for a delicious meal:
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to measure and prepare your ingredients before starting the cooking process.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your crockpot masterpiece:
Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them at the bottom of the crockpot.
Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, combine the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, and minced garlic. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
Cook the Chicken
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Add the Broccoli
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the crockpot and cover again.
Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir it into the crockpot to thicken the sauce before serving.
Serve
Once cooked, shred the chicken in the sauce and serve hot over rice or noodles.
Your Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli is now ready to enjoy!
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry; this dish stores well! Simply let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. This makes for an easy lunch or dinner option for the next few days.
For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken and broccoli mixture. Freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat. This makes it a fantastic meal prep option for busy weeks ahead!
Customization Ideas
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. If you want to add more vegetables, feel free to toss in bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas along with the broccoli during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This not only enhances the dish's nutritional value but also adds a pop of color and flavor to your meal.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick. Alternatively, you can swap the soy sauce for tamari to make it gluten-free or use coconut aminos for a different flavor profile. These subtle changes can create a fresh experience each time you make this family favorite.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
→ What can I substitute for broccoli?
You can substitute broccoli with green beans, snap peas, or bell peppers.
→ Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just make sure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli
Discover the delightful flavors of our Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli. This easy-to-make recipe transforms simple ingredients into a comforting dish that the whole family will love.
Created by: Margaret Hill
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them at the bottom of the crockpot.
In a bowl, combine the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, and minced garlic. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the crockpot and cover again.
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir it into the crockpot to thicken the sauce before serving.
Once cooked, shred the chicken in the sauce and serve hot over rice or noodles.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 720mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 30g