Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A hearty and wholesome dish that brings the family together, this Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli is a favorite for busy weeknights.
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli recipe is perfect for those busy days when you need a delicious meal without the fuss. Just toss the ingredients in the crockpot and let it do the work!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
- Nutritious broccoli that adds vibrant color and flavor
- A simple, one-pot meal that saves you time on cleanup
A Wholesome Meal for Busy Families
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can be a challenge. That's where this Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli comes into play. With minimal prep and hands-free cooking, you can have a nutritious dinner ready while you tackle other responsibilities. This recipe is designed for busy families who want to enjoy a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You can throw everything into the crockpot in the morning and let it do the work for you. By the time you return home, your house will be filled with delightful aromas, and you'll have a delicious meal waiting to be served. It's a perfect solution for busy weeknights, ensuring that everyone gathers around the table for a hearty dinner.
Flavor-Packed Ingredients
This recipe features tender chicken breasts that soak up the rich flavors of the soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. The combination creates a mouthwatering marinade that infuses the chicken with taste while keeping it moist and tender. The use of fresh ingredients not only enhances the flavor but also provides essential nutrients for a balanced meal.
Adding broccoli florets not only contributes vibrant color to the dish but also boosts its nutritional value. Broccoli is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a superfood that complements the protein-rich chicken. This dish is not just delicious; it's a nourishing option that supports your family's health and well-being.
Versatile Serving Suggestions
One of the great things about this Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli is its versatility. While serving it over rice or noodles is a classic choice, you can easily customize it based on your preferences. Consider serving it over quinoa for a gluten-free option, or even adding it to a wrap for a delicious lunch the next day. The possibilities are endless!
For those looking to elevate their meal, consider garnishing with sesame seeds or chopped green onions before serving. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal of the dish but also add layers of flavor and texture that will impress your family and guests alike.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Broccoli
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in the bottom of the crockpot.
Add the Sauce
In a bowl, mix together the chicken broth, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Pour the mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.
Cook the Chicken
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Add Broccoli
About 30 minutes before serving, add the broccoli florets to the crockpot. If you want a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it in.
Serve
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix everything well. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious meal!
Storage Tips
Leftover Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the flavors over multiple days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
If you're looking to keep it longer, consider freezing the chicken and broccoli mixture. Simply let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but the cooking time may need to be extended. Ensure that the chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What can I substitute for soy sauce? If you're looking for a soy sauce alternative, consider using tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a sweeter flavor. Both will work well in this recipe!
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Broccoli adds fiber, which aids digestion, and is loaded with antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress in the body.
Furthermore, the combination of garlic and ginger not only adds flavor but also provides anti-inflammatory benefits. Incorporating these ingredients into your meals is a fantastic way to support overall health while enjoying a tasty dish your family will love.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but you may need to increase the cooking time slightly.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Carrots or snap peas would work well in this recipe.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative.
Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli
A hearty and wholesome dish that brings the family together, this Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli is a favorite for busy weeknights.
Created by: Tessa Wright
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken and Broccoli
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in the bottom of the crockpot.
In a bowl, mix together the chicken broth, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Pour the mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
About 30 minutes before serving, add the broccoli florets to the crockpot. If you want a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it in.
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix everything well. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 40g