This Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli is a cozy dish that warms your heart. Tender chicken cooked with fresh broccoli and a yummy sauce creates a tasty meal with very little effort!
It’s perfect for busy days when you want something simple. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. I love it served over rice—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use either boneless, skinless breasts or thighs. I often choose thighs because they stay juicier during cooking. If you’re looking for a lighter option, stick with breasts.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are great, but frozen is a handy substitute. Just add it directly without thawing. I like using fresh when I can for better texture.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, tamari works just as well. You can also use coconut aminos for a soy sauce alternative, which has a slightly sweeter flavor.
Honey: Can be swapped for maple syrup or agave nectar if you prefer. I often opt for honey because it balances the saltiness of the soy sauce nicely.
Sesame Oil: This adds a lovely nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, you could use a light vegetable oil, though you’d miss that distinct flavor.
How Do You Get Perfectly Shredded Chicken?
Shredding the chicken right is key to achieving that tender texture. Start by removing the cooked chicken from the slow cooker, then use two forks to pull it apart.
- Work with the grain of the meat, pulling apart gently. This helps it come apart easily.
- Don’t rush! Take your time to shred it well, as smaller pieces will mix better with the sauce.
- After shredding, return the chicken to the slow cooker to absorb even more flavor.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For Thickening:
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
To Serve:
- Cooked white rice
- Sliced green onions, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This slow cooker recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus cooking time. You’ll need 4-5 hours on low heat or 2-3 hours on high heat for the chicken to cook until tender. It’s perfect for a busy day—just set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into your slow cooker. This is where all the delicious flavors will meld together!
2. Make the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, minced ginger, and sesame oil until everything is well combined. Pour this flavorful mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook the chicken. You can choose to set it on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender when it’s done.
4. Add the Broccoli:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, add the broccoli florets to the slow cooker. This allows them to cook just right—tender but still crisp!
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once cooking time is completed, carefully take the chicken out of the slow cooker and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return that shredded chicken back to the slow cooker to stay warm and soak up all the yummy sauce.
6. Thicken the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water until it’s smooth. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker. This will help thicken the sauce. Allow it to cook for another 10-15 minutes until the sauce has thickened nicely.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Now it’s time to serve! Spoon the chicken and broccoli over a bed of cooked white rice and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if you like. Enjoy your delicious and wholesome meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen chicken, just make sure to adjust the cooking time. It’s best to cook it on high for about 3-4 hours, ensuring it’s fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. No need to thaw beforehand when using a slow cooker!
Can I Substitute Other Vegetables Instead of Broccoli?
Yes! Feel free to mix in other veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or cauliflower. Just add them about 30-45 minutes before the cooking time ends to ensure they stay vibrant and retain some crunch.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the dish moist.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare everything in the slow cooker the night before and keep it in the fridge. Just start the slow cooker in the morning, and it will be ready for dinner. Alternatively, you can cook and store the chicken and sauce separately, warming them up before serving.
