Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture this: tender chicken swimming in a velvety, cheesy sauce, surrounded by vibrant green broccoli that adds both color and crunch. The aroma wafts through the house, making your stomach growl louder than a toddler who skipped their nap. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or when you’ve got friends over and want to impress them without spending all day in the kitchen.
Let’s be real; we all have those days when even thinking about cooking feels like climbing Mount Everest. That’s where this recipe comes to the rescue. Just toss everything into your trusty crockpot, kick your feet up, and let the magic happen! With each bite, you’ll experience the creamy goodness that can turn any ordinary meal into an extraordinary feast.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This magical dish combines convenience with scrumptious flavor; just toss everything into the crockpot and relax.
- The creamy texture and cheesy notes create a comfort food experience that’s hard to resist.
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties.
- Versatile enough to pair with rice, pasta, or even crusty bread for added enjoyment!
Ingredients for Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 medium chicken breasts. They cook beautifully and soak up all that creamy goodness.
- Fresh Broccoli Florets: Grab a couple of cups of fresh broccoli florets for that perfect crunch and vibrant color.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: About 2 cups will do wonders. Opt for sharp cheddar for maximum flavor impact.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to keep flavors balanced without overwhelming saltiness.
- Cream Cheese: A block of cream cheese adds the rich creaminess that makes this dish irresistibly indulgent.
- Garlic Powder: A teaspoon of garlic powder brings depth and richness; it’s a must!
For seasoning:
- Salt and Pepper: Season these beauties well to enhance their natural flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop your broccoli into small florets so they cook evenly alongside the chicken.
Step 2: Layer It Up
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Season generously with salt, pepper, and sprinkle garlic powder over them like you’re casting a savory spell.
Step 3: Add Broccoli
Now it’s time for that beautiful broccoli! Scatter the florets on top of the seasoned chicken—this colorful layer will steam perfectly as it cooks down.
Step 4: Pour In The Goodness
Pour in the chicken broth over everything—this will keep your chicken moist while also creating a saucy base for later.
Step 5: Creamy Transformation
Add in blocks of cream cheese right on top; they’ll melt gradually throughout cooking. Then sprinkle shredded cheddar over everything like confetti at a party!
Step 6: Set It And Forget It
Cover and cook on low for about **6-8 hours** or on high for **4-5 hours** until the chicken is tender enough to shred effortlessly with forks.
To serve, simply transfer portions onto plates and drizzle any extra cheesy goodness from the pot over each serving. Enjoy every delectable bite!
This Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is not just another recipe; it’s an experience waiting to unfold in your kitchen! You can mix things up by adding different veggies or spices based on what you have lying around—after all, we’re all about flexibility here! So grab your crockpot and get ready to enjoy one of the coziest meals you’ll ever make!
You Must Know
- This Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl.
- Packed with creamy goodness and cheesy delight, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- You can throw everything into the crockpot and let it work its magic while you binge-watch your favorite show.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To get the most out of your Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken, start by searing the chicken on high heat. This step locks in those juicy flavors before adding broccoli and cheese later on. Set your crockpot to low and let the magic happen.
Add Your Touch
Want to make this dish your own? Swap out the broccoli for spinach or even kale if you’re feeling adventurous. Add some garlic powder, crushed red pepper, or even a splash of white wine for extra flavor. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through or heat gently on the stovetop. Just add a splash of cream if it looks too thick!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- 1.
- Always sear your chicken first to enhance its flavor and maintain moisture throughout cooking.
2.
- Stir in your cheese at the end of cooking to keep it creamy and prevent clumping.
3.
- Use fresh broccoli, as frozen may become mushy during cooking, ruining that delightful crunch.
I still remember the first time I made this dish for my family—they were practically licking their bowls! My kids devoured every bite and even asked for seconds, which rarely happens around here!
FAQs :
What is Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken?
Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is a delicious, comforting dish that combines tender chicken with fresh broccoli and a rich cheddar cheese sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it cooks slowly in a crockpot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it a family favorite. Serve it over rice or pasta for a complete meal that everyone will love.
How long does it take to cook Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken?
Cooking Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken typically takes about 6 to 8 hours on low heat or 3 to 4 hours on high heat. The longer cooking time allows the chicken to become incredibly tender while absorbing the flavors of the broccoli and cheese sauce. Be sure to check for doneness before serving, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I make Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken ahead of time. Simply assemble all the ingredients in your crockpot and store it in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, set your crockpot to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. This makes it a convenient option for meal prepping or busy days when you want dinner ready without much fuss.
What can I serve with Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken?
Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken pairs wonderfully with various sides. Popular options include fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even pasta tossed with olive oil and garlic. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad for added texture and flavor. Experimenting with different sides enhances the dish’s overall appeal and makes mealtime more enjoyable.
Conclusion for Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken :
In conclusion, Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is an easy and delicious option for any dinner table. Its creamy texture, combined with tender chicken and nutritious broccoli, creates a well-rounded meal that appeals to all ages. With simple preparation and cooking methods in your trusty crockpot, you save time without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy this dish as a comforting weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat!
Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Total Time: 12 minute
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Savor the comforting blend of tender chicken, creamy cheddar sauce, and vibrant broccoli cooked effortlessly in your crockpot for a delightful family meal.
Ingredients
- 3–4 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Chop broccoli into small florets.
- Layer it up: Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Add broccoli: Scatter broccoli florets on top of the seasoned chicken.
- Pour in the goodness: Add chicken broth over everything to keep chicken moist.
- Creamy transformation: Place cream cheese on top and sprinkle shredded cheddar over all ingredients.
- Set it and forget it: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until chicken is tender and easily shredded with forks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider searing the chicken before placing it in the crockpot. Feel free to substitute broccoli with spinach or kale for a different twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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