If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious dish that practically makes itself, this Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe is an absolute dream. Tender chicken chunks bathed in a savory, slightly sweet sauce mingle perfectly with vibrant broccoli, making every bite a cozy hug for your tastebuds. The best part? You toss everything in the slow cooker, wander off, and come back to a gorgeous meal that feels like it took hours of effort. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this recipe is a powerhouse of flavor and simplicity that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each playing a pivotal role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color that defines this Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe. From aromatic aromatics to rich, umami-packed sauces, these elements come together to deliver a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
- 750g chicken breast (cut into chunks): The star protein, providing tender, juicy bites when slow-cooked to perfection.
- 2 onions (quartered): Adds subtle sweetness and a mellow depth to the sauce as they soften during cooking.
- 3 tsp garlic (crushed): Brings a punch of aromatic warmth essential for that classic savory base.
- 2 tsp ginger (minced): Offers a fresh, zesty note that brightens the dish.
- 250ml chicken stock: Provides a savory liquid base to infuse richness and keep the chicken moist.
- ½ cup soy sauce: Adds salty, umami goodness that defines the overall flavor profile.
- ¼ cup brown sugar: Balances out savory notes with a comforting sweetness that caramelizes gently during cooking.
- ¼ cup oyster sauce: Boosts umami and adds complexity with its slightly sweet and briny essence.
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil: Lends a nutty aroma and rounded mouthfeel that elevates the sauce.
- 500g broccoli florets: These vibrant greens soak up the sauce while providing a crisp, fresh contrast in texture.
- 2 Tbsp cornstarch: Essential for thickening the sauce to a luscious consistency.
- 3 Tbsp water: Used to dissolve the cornstarch smoothly before adding it to the cooker.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Start by placing the chicken chunks, quartered onions, crushed garlic, minced ginger, chicken stock, soy sauce, brown sugar, oyster sauce, and sesame oil straight into your slow cooker. This layering of flavors creates a rich, aromatic base that will develop beautifully over time.
Step 2: Slow Cook on Low Heat for 4-6 Hours
Set your slow cooker to low and let these ingredients mingle and cook slowly for 4 to 6 hours. This low and slow approach ensures the chicken becomes irresistibly tender while the flavors deepen and marry harmoniously.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
About 30 minutes before finishing, whisk together the cornstarch and water in a small bowl until smooth. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker and stir gently. This step thickens the sauce, giving it a beautiful glaze that clings to every piece of chicken and broccoli.
Step 4: Add Broccoli Florets
Add the room temperature broccoli florets to the slow cooker, folding them into the rich sauce. The broccoli cooks just enough in the final stretch to stay crisp-tender, maintaining its bright green color and fresh bite.
Step 5: Cook on High for 30 Minutes
Switch your slow cooker to the high setting and cook for an additional 30 minutes. This final burst of heat finishes cooking the broccoli and thickens the sauce further, bringing everything together perfectly.
Step 6: Serve Over Rice or Noodles
Spoon the luscious chicken and broccoli over your favorite rice or noodles. The sauce seeps beautifully into the grains or strands, making each mouthful vibrant and satisfying.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
Adding some simple garnishes can elevate this dish from great to gorgeous. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Fresh chopped green onions bring a pop of color and a mild bite, while a drizzle of chili oil can add an exciting kick for those who like a little heat.
Side Dishes
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe pairs wonderfully with plain steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for something heartier. For noodle lovers, try it alongside soft egg noodles or soba noodles that soak up the sauce beautifully. A crisp cucumber salad on the side can add a refreshing contrast that brightens the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Serve this dish in individual mini cast iron skillets or over a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist. For a casual family-style dinner, present it in the slow cooker directly on the table, inviting everyone to serve themselves. Layered in a bento box for lunch, it transforms into a colorful, satisfying meal perfect for on-the-go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator. The flavors continue to meld, making leftovers just as delicious, if not more so, for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep the sauce thickened so it doesn’t become watery on storage.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When freezing, it’s best to hold off on adding the broccoli until you’re ready to reheat to keep it from getting too soft.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or chicken stock if the sauce has thickened too much. Add fresh or frozen broccoli during reheating to revive the crispness and fresh green color.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a bit more richness and stay moist during slow cooking. Just cut them into chunks similarly and enjoy the same great flavor with a slightly different texture.
Is it necessary to thicken the sauce with cornstarch?
Thickening the sauce is optional but highly recommended. It transforms the cooking liquid into a silky glaze that beautifully coats the chicken and broccoli, preventing the dish from feeling watery.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots can be great additions. Add them at the same time as the broccoli if they cook quickly, or adjust cooking times based on their firmness.
How do I prevent the broccoli from turning mushy?
Add the broccoli at the end of the cooking process as directed and cook on high for just about 30 minutes. This keeps it tender but still crisp, preserving its bright color and satisfying texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and double-check the oyster sauce ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free. This way you keep all the delicious flavors without worry.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe is a brilliant example of easy cooking without sacrificing flavor or comfort. It’s a total winner for busy days when you want something warm, inviting, and utterly delicious waiting for you at the end of the day. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to meal that’s as friendly to your schedule as it is to your tastebuds.
Print
Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (4-6 hours low + 30 minutes high)
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A delicious and easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli recipe that combines tender chicken chunks, fresh broccoli florets, and a flavorful savory sauce made with soy, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Perfect for a hassle-free weeknight dinner, this dish cooks low and slow, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken juicy and the broccoli crisp-tender.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 750g chicken breast, cut into chunks
- 2 onions, quartered
- 500g broccoli florets, room temperature
Flavors and Sauces
- 3 tsp garlic, crushed
- 2 tsp ginger, minced
- 250ml 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
- Combine ingredients in slow cooker: Place chicken chunks, quartered onions, crushed garlic, minced ginger, chicken stock, soy sauce, brown sugar, oyster sauce, and sesame oil together in your slow cooker. Mix gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook on low heat: Set the slow cooker to low and cook the mixture for 4 to 6 hours until the chicken is tender and the flavors have fully developed.
- Prepare thickening slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water until smooth and lump-free.
- Thicken the sauce: Stir the cornstarch mixture into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce, mixing well to incorporate.
- Add broccoli to slow cooker: Push the broccoli florets into the slow cooker, mixing gently with the chicken and sauce.
- Cook broccoli on high heat: Switch the slow cooker to high and cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the broccoli is heated through but still slightly crisp.
- Serve: Serve the chicken and broccoli hot over cooked rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh broccoli at room temperature to ensure even cooking during the final stage.
- If you prefer softer broccoli, extend the high heat cook time by 10-15 minutes.
- Adjust the brown sugar amount to control the sweetness of the sauce according to taste.
- This recipe freezes well—store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- To make it gluten-free, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.
