Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with vibrant broccoli in a creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights!
This dish has been a staple in our family for years. It's simple to prepare and always a hit with the kids. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it a dish everyone looks forward to!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Tender chicken cooked to perfection in a flavorful sauce
- Easy one-pot meal that saves time on cleanup
- Healthy and packed with nutrients from fresh broccoli
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
The Benefits of Using a Crockpot
Using a crockpot is a game-changer for busy families. It allows you to prepare meals in advance, freeing up your evening for more important activities. Simply set it up in the morning and come home to a hot, delicious dinner waiting for you. Plus, the slow cooking method enhances the flavors of your ingredients, making every bite a delight.
Crockpots are also incredibly versatile. You can experiment with various ingredients and spices, tailoring each meal to your family's taste preferences. Whether you prefer a creamy sauce or a zesty one, this appliance can accommodate all your culinary ideas with ease.
Nutritional Highlights
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Chicken breasts provide a lean source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. The addition of broccoli adds a wealth of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and fiber, supporting your overall health.
Moreover, by using fresh ingredients and a homemade sauce, you can control the quality of your meal. This approach allows you to avoid preservatives and excess sodium often found in pre-packaged meals, making this dish a healthier option for your family.
Meal Prep and Leftovers
This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can easily double the recipe to ensure you have enough for lunch or dinner throughout the week. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making leftovers even more enjoyable. Pack the chicken and broccoli in individual containers for quick grab-and-go lunches.
When stored properly in the refrigerator, this crockpot chicken and broccoli can last up to four days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick meal. This not only saves time but also reduces food waste, making it a win-win for busy families.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients for a delicious meal:
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your meal:
Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Add Broccoli and Sauce
Add the broccoli florets on top of the chicken. In a separate bowl, mix the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup, then pour over the broccoli and chicken.
Cook the Dish
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Add Cheese
In the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and cover to let it melt.
Serve
Serve warm and enjoy your delicious crockpot chicken and broccoli!
Enjoy your meal with some rice or bread!
Tips for Perfecting Your Dish
For the best results, make sure to cut your broccoli into uniform florets. This ensures even cooking, allowing all pieces to become tender without overcooking. You can also use frozen broccoli if fresh isn't available; just add it in the last hour of cooking to preserve its texture.
Consider adding extra vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added color and nutrition. They will cook down nicely in the crockpot and complement the chicken and sauce beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your crockpot chicken and broccoli over a bed of rice or alongside mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. The creamy sauce is perfect for drizzling over these sides, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
For a lighter option, serve it with a side salad or steamed rice. This balances the meal and adds freshness, making it a delightful dining experience for the whole family.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
→ Can I substitute the chicken?
Absolutely! You can use boneless skinless thighs or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. Just add them to the crockpot in the morning.
Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with vibrant broccoli in a creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Created by: Nora Ellis
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
How-To Steps
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the broccoli florets on top of the chicken. In a separate bowl, mix the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup, then pour over the broccoli and chicken.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
In the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and cover to let it melt.
Serve warm and enjoy your delicious crockpot chicken and broccoli!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g