Are you tired of complicated weeknight dinners? Craving a healthy and flavorful meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Then this easy chicken and broccoli crockpot recipe is your answer! This delicious dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a simple yet satisfying meal the whole family will love. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor. Get ready to enjoy a quick dinner idea that’s both healthy and incredibly tasty!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, combine the chicken, broccoli, onion, and garlic.
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Sauce Preparation: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, sesame oil, and ginger. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Pour and Cook: Pour the sauce over the chicken and broccoli mixture in the slow cooker. Stir gently to coat everything evenly.
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Slow Cooker Magic: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is tender.
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Thicken (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove about 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid and whisk in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch before returning it to the slow cooker for the last 15 minutes of cooking time. This will create a wonderful, glossy sauce.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot over rice, quinoa, or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli:
- Don't Overcrowd: Ensure your slow cooker isn't overcrowded. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents the chicken from steaming instead of browning slightly.
- Frozen Broccoli: You can use frozen broccoli florets. Just add them to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. You might need to add an extra 30 minutes to the cooking time.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to experiment with different sauces. Teriyaki sauce, for example, would be a delicious alternative.
Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Lemon Chicken and Broccoli: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the sauce for a brighter, citrusy flavor.
- Creamy Chicken and Broccoli: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This easy chicken and broccoli crockpot recipe is a perfect example of a delicious and healthy meal that’s simple to make. It’s a great way to enjoy a comforting and satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is ideal for those seeking quick dinner ideas or healthy meals, and it showcases the best of easy recipes and homemade cooking. Enjoy!