Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli

This slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality Asian-inspired meal with minimal effort. The tender chicken simmers in a sweet-savory sauce while you go about your day, making dinner prep practically hands-off.

I started making this recipe when my kids were going through a picky eating phase. The slightly sweet sauce won them over, and now it's our go-to meal when I know we'll be running around all day but still want a home-cooked dinner.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Provides the protein base for this dish. Thighs tend to stay juicier in the slow cooker.
• Low-sodium soy sauce: Creates the savory foundation. Using low-sodium allows you to control the salt level better.
• Honey: Adds natural sweetness that caramelizes slightly during cooking.
• Chicken broth: Enhances the savory flavors while adding moisture.
• Rice vinegar: Brings essential brightness and acidity to balance the sweet elements.
• Brown sugar: Deepens the flavor with its molasses notes.
• Fresh garlic and ginger: Infuse aromatic complexity. Fresh is best, but pre-minced works in a pinch.
• Cornstarch: Creates that signature glossy, restaurant-style sauce that clings to every bite.
• Fresh or frozen broccoli: Adds color and nutrition. Look for bright green florets with tight heads if using fresh.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Chicken Preparation:

Place your boneless skinless chicken pieces in the slow cooker insert. There's no need to cut them up as they'll be shredded later. If using chicken breasts of different sizes, arrange thicker pieces toward the edges where the heat is typically higher.

Sauce Creation:

Whisk together soy sauce, honey, chicken broth, rice vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper in a medium bowl until completely combined. The mixture should look homogeneous with the honey and sugar fully dissolved. Pour this flavorful concoction over the chicken, making sure each piece gets coated.

Slow Cooking Process:

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set to low for 4 to 5 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours. Avoid opening the lid during cooking as this releases accumulated heat and can extend cooking time. The chicken is done when it easily shreds with two forks. Remove the chicken pieces to a cutting board and shred them using two forks, pulling in opposite directions.

Sauce Thickening:

In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch and water until completely smooth with no lumps. Pour this slurry into the cooking liquid in the slow cooker and stir well. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and mix thoroughly to coat with the thickening sauce. The heat will activate the cornstarch, creating a silky texture.

Broccoli Addition:

Spread the broccoli florets over the top of the chicken mixture. Do not stir yet. Cover and continue cooking for 20 to 30 minutes until the broccoli reaches your desired tenderness. Fresh broccoli will take closer to 30 minutes, while frozen might only need 15 to 20 minutes.

Final Assembly:

Gently fold the broccoli into the chicken and sauce mixture until evenly distributed. Serve over hot cooked rice, sprinkle with optional sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra flavor and visual appeal. The sauce should coat each component beautifully.

Save

My family's favorite part is always the sauce. We started making a double batch after my teenage son began pouring extra over his rice. That sweet and savory combination just hits differently when it's homemade rather than from a bottle or takeout container.

Make-Ahead Options

This dish works beautifully for meal planning. You can combine all sauce ingredients and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days before cooking. You can also prep the chicken and freeze it with the sauce in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking according to the recipe instructions.

Perfect Rice Pairing

While traditional white rice works wonderfully, try brown rice for added nutrition or jasmine rice for aromatic flavor. For a lower-carb option, cauliflower rice makes an excellent substitute. Cook your rice with a dash of salt and a teaspoon of butter to enhance its flavor profile and complement the chicken perfectly.

Vegetable Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. While broccoli is the classic pairing, you can substitute or add other vegetables like sliced bell peppers, snow peas, carrots, or mushrooms. For crispier vegetables, consider steaming them separately and adding them just before serving rather than cooking them in the slow cooker.

Flavor Boosting Techniques

For even more depth, try adding a tablespoon of oyster sauce or hoisin sauce to the mixture. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes brings welcome heat, while a tablespoon of orange zest adds bright citrus notes. For umami richness, consider stirring in a teaspoon of sesame oil just before serving rather than cooking it in the slow cooker where its flavor can diminish.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works perfectly in this dish. Add it during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking time just like fresh broccoli. There's no need to thaw it first, which makes it a convenient time-saver.

→ How do I prevent the broccoli from getting mushy?

Add the broccoli only during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking. This gives it enough time to become tender while maintaining its texture and bright green color. If you prefer firmer broccoli, check it after 15 minutes.

→ Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are actually recommended for juicier results as they tend to stay more tender in the slow cooker. The cooking time remains the same for both cuts of meat.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a covered skillet on medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.

→ Can I double this for a larger group?

Yes, this dish doubles well. Use a 6-quart or larger slow cooker and double all ingredients. The cooking time should remain roughly the same, but you may need to add 30 minutes if your slow cooker is very full.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, but freeze it without the broccoli for best results. Cool the chicken and sauce completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, reheat, and add freshly cooked broccoli.