If you’ve been craving a comforting, easy-to-make dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe. It’s one of those magical dishes where tender chicken and vibrant broccoli come together in a luscious, savory sauce, all cooked low and slow to develop deep, irresistible flavors. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe will become a favorite, delivering healthy goodness without you having to hover over the stove.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe truly shine is its simplicity. Each ingredient has its own starring role, contributing natural flavors and textures that elevate the dish to something special without any fuss.
- Chicken breast (750g/1.7 lb): Cut into chunks for perfect tenderness and quick, even cooking.
- Onions (2, quartered): Add natural sweetness and depth to the savory sauce.
- Garlic (3 tsp, crushed): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and a hint of spice.
- Ginger (2 tsp, minced): Brings a fresh, zesty kick that brightens every bite.
- Chicken stock (250ml/8.5 fl oz): Forms the flavorful liquid base that keeps the chicken moist and tender.
- Soy sauce (½ cup): Adds umami richness and a subtle salty balance.
- Brown sugar (¼ cup): Sweetens the sauce, harmonizing with both savory and tangy elements.
- Oyster sauce (¼ cup): Deepens the flavor with its unique savory-sweet profile.
- Sesame oil (1 Tbsp): Adds a nutty aroma that makes this dish feel restaurant-worthy.
- Cornstarch (2 Tbsp) and water (3 Tbsp): Used together to thicken the sauce to a perfect, silky consistency.
- Broccoli florets (500g/1.1 lb, room temperature): Added at the end to keep their bright color and slight crunch intact.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Start by layering the chicken chunks, quartered onions, crushed garlic, and minced ginger into your slow cooker. Pour in the chicken stock, soy sauce, brown sugar, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. This combination forms the rich, flavorful base that will meld beautifully during slow cooking. Give everything a gentle stir to make sure those flavors begin to mingle.
Step 2: Cook Low and Slow
Set your slow cooker to low and let the magic happen for 4 to 6 hours. This slow cooking process allows the chicken to become incredibly tender while the onions and aromatics dissolve into a fragrant broth. You’ll love the way this gentle heat unlocks intense flavor without sacrificing moisture.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce and Add Broccoli
Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, mix the cornstarch with water to create a smooth slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker along with the broccoli florets. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce while gently steaming the broccoli, so it stays vibrant and crisp-tender.
Step 4: Final Cook on High
Change the slow cooker setting to high and cook for about 30 minutes. This shorter, higher heat period is just enough to thicken the sauce fully and warm the broccoli through without losing its delightful texture and color. After this, your Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe is ready to serve!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or freshly chopped green onions on top to add a bit of crunch and an extra pop of flavor that pairs perfectly with the saucy chicken and broccoli. A light drizzle of fresh lime juice can also brighten the dish wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This dish shines when paired with steamed jasmine rice or fragrant basmati rice, which soaks up the rich sauce beautifully. For a low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice or quinoa offer a nutritious and flavorful base.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe in lettuce wraps to turn it into a fresh, handheld meal. You can also spoon it over warm noodles or toss the chicken and broccoli into Asian-style wraps for delightful lunch boxes or casual dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making your next meal just as tasty as the first.
Freezing
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe freezes exceptionally well. Transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts to keep the broccoli from overcooking and becoming mushy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but add it during the thickening step and reduce the high heat cooking time to avoid overcooking. Fresh broccoli gives you the best texture and color, though.
What cut of chicken works best for this recipe?
Chicken breast chunks are perfect as they remain tender and soak up the sauce well. You could also try boneless, skinless thighs for a juicier result.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap out the soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos to keep the dish gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
Can I prepare this recipe on the stovetop?
You can, but it will require more active cooking. Simmer the sauce and chicken in a covered skillet, then add broccoli at the end. The slow cooker really helps develop more complex flavors with less effort.
How spicy is this dish? Can I add heat?
This recipe is mild by default, but feel free to add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for a spicy kick that wakes up the flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe that you toss together and let do all the hard work for you. Its rich, savory sauce, tender chicken, and crisp broccoli make for a satisfying meal any night of the week. I honestly can’t recommend it enough—grab those simple ingredients, set your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a delicious dinner that warms both heart and home.
Print
Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli recipe is a savory and comforting dish featuring tender chicken cooked low and slow with a flavorful blend of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and brown sugar. Finished with fresh broccoli thickened in a luscious sauce, it’s an easy and healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 750g (1.7 lb) chicken breast, cut into chunks
- 2 onions, quartered
- 3 tsp garlic, crushed
- 2 tsp ginger, minced
- 500g (1.1 lb) broccoli florets, room temperature
Liquids and Sauces
- 250ml (8.5 fl oz) chicken stock
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup oyster sauce
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
Thickening Agent
- 2 Tbsp cornstarch
- 3 Tbsp water
Instructions
- Preparation: Gather and prepare all ingredients by cutting the chicken into chunks, quartering the onions, crushing the garlic, mincing the ginger, and bringing the broccoli florets to room temperature.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Place the chicken, onions, garlic, ginger, chicken stock, soy sauce, brown sugar, oyster sauce, and sesame oil into the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine the flavors.
- Slow Cook Chicken and Aromatics: Set the slow cooker to low and cook the mixture for 4 to 6 hours until the chicken is tender and flavors have melded beautifully.
- Prepare Thickening Mixture and Add Broccoli: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker along with the broccoli florets.
- Final Cooking and Thickening: Increase the slow cooker setting to high and cook for an additional 30 minutes or until the sauce has thickened and the broccoli is heated through but still crisp.
- Serve: Once thickened and hot, serve the chicken and broccoli immediately for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken briefly before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Do not overcook the broccoli to maintain its crunch and vibrant green color.
- Adjust brown sugar to taste for a sweeter or more savory sauce.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or noodles.
- Use gluten-free soy sauce if needed to make the recipe gluten-free.
