Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli is a wholesome meal that brings the family together with its comforting flavors and easy preparation.
This recipe has been a staple in our family for years. The combination of tender chicken and vibrant broccoli makes for a nutritious and satisfying dish that everyone loves. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this crockpot recipe is sure to please!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Effortless preparation with just a few simple ingredients
- Tender, juicy chicken that falls apart with a fork
- Nutritious broccoli packed with vitamins and minerals
- Perfect for meal prepping or serving at family dinners
A Wholesome Meal for All
Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli is more than just a meal; it's a delightful experience that brings everyone together. The combination of tender chicken and vibrant broccoli makes for a colorful dish that's as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to serve your family something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen.
What sets this dish apart is its ability to meld flavors while you go about your day. Just toss everything into the crockpot in the morning, and by dinnertime, you'll have a warm, hearty meal waiting for you. This hands-off approach allows you to focus on what truly matters - spending quality time with your loved ones.
Nutritional Benefits
One of the standout features of this recipe is the health benefits it offers. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Combined with broccoli, which is loaded with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, this dish is both nourishing and satisfying. It's a great way to sneak in those vital nutrients that keep your family energetic and healthy.
Moreover, this meal is easily customizable. You can add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to increase the nutritional value even further. This flexibility ensures that you can cater to your family's preferences while still providing a balanced meal.
Perfect for Meal Prepping
If you're looking to streamline your weekly meal planning, this crockpot chicken and broccoli recipe is a perfect choice. The leftovers store exceptionally well, making it ideal for lunch the next day or even for freezing. Simply portion out the leftovers into airtight containers and you've got convenient meals ready to go.
Additionally, this recipe can be easily scaled up or down, so whether you're cooking for a crowd or just a couple of people, you'll find it adaptable. Meal prepping not only saves time but also helps in maintaining a balanced diet, as you can control the ingredients and portions.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting the recipe.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the Sauce
In a bowl, mix together the chicken broth, soy sauce, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
Cook the Chicken
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Add Broccoli
About 30 minutes before serving, add the broccoli florets to the crockpot. Mix gently to incorporate.
Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a bit of water until smooth. Stir this into the crockpot to thicken the sauce. Cook for another 15 minutes.
Serve
Shred the chicken with two forks and serve hot over rice or noodles. Enjoy!
Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal!
Cooking Tips
To ensure that your chicken stays moist and flavorful, consider marinating it in the soy sauce mixture for a few hours before cooking. This extra step will infuse the meat with deeper flavors and enhance its tenderness.
If you prefer a bit of crunch in your broccoli, you can add it later in the cooking process. Just toss it in the crockpot about 15 minutes before serving, allowing it to cook through while retaining some of its crispness.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is delicious served over jasmine rice or egg noodles, which soak up the savory sauce beautifully. You can also serve it alongside a fresh garden salad for a complete meal that balances flavors and textures.
For a fun twist, try adding some sesame seeds or sliced green onions as a garnish before serving. These toppings not only enhance the presentation but also add an extra layer of flavor and crunch to the dish.
Storage and Reheating
To store leftovers, let the chicken and broccoli cool to room temperature before transferring them to airtight containers. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, ensure the chicken is heated thoroughly to maintain its juicy texture.
For best results, reheat in a microwave-safe dish, covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. You can also reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you may need to increase the cooking time.
→ Is there a vegetarian option?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas can also be added.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli
This Family-Favorite Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli is a wholesome meal that brings the family together with its comforting flavors and easy preparation.
Created by: Tessa Wright
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Season with salt and pepper.
In a bowl, mix together the chicken broth, soy sauce, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
About 30 minutes before serving, add the broccoli florets to the crockpot. Mix gently to incorporate.
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a bit of water until smooth. Stir this into the crockpot to thicken the sauce. Cook for another 15 minutes.
Shred the chicken with two forks and serve hot over rice or noodles. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 35g