Prepare to indulge in a warm and delightful dish with the Comforting Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Delight. Imagine tender chicken swimming in a rich, creamy cheddar sauce, perfectly complemented by fresh broccoli. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes with its vibrant greens and golden cheese but also a heartwarming meal that brings family and friends together. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Experience the wonderful aroma filling your kitchen as this slow cooker dish simmers throughout the day. It combines creamy textures and savory flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. In this article, you will find all the details you need to make this comforting dish, from easy-to-follow instructions to variations for personalization. Let’s dive into the delightful journey of creating this comforting meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh ingredients create a healthy, mouthwatering taste that brightens your day.
- The easy, hands-off preparation allows more time for you to enjoy with family.
- Nutritious broccoli and flavorful cheese make it a well-rounded meal.
- It’s versatile—pair it with rice or pasta to fit your preferences.
- The appealing presentation will impress your guests, making it ideal for gatherings.
You’ll find it hard to resist making this delightful dish over and over!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 6 hours
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delightful dish, start by selecting the right ingredients. You’ll need:
- Main Protein: 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Aromatics & Vegetables: 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- Liquids/Dairy: 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz) and 1 cup chicken broth (use low-sodium for better control over saltiness)
- Seasoning/Spice Blend: 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste), and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Liquids/Dairy: 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (for a creamy texture) and 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- Starch/Pasta: Cooked rice or pasta (optional for serving)
- Others: 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
Main Protein
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook evenly and absorb flavors well.
- To prepare, trim excess fat and cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- If you’re looking for an alternative, try chicken thighs for a richer taste or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Be cautious not to overcook the chicken; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Aromatics & Vegetables
Broccoli adds nutrition and a lovely crunch to the dish.
- Fresh broccoli florets are best; simply wash and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- If you’re looking for an alternative, frozen broccoli works just as well and saves preparation time.
- Ensure you don’t mush the broccoli when mixing in; it should maintain its shape for texture.
Liquids/Dairy
Cream of chicken soup enhances richness while chicken broth adds depth.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness and balance flavors.
- If you’re looking for an alternative, you can substitute with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.
- Allow the cream cheese to soften to mix easily; it’s key for achieving a velvety sauce.
Starch/Pasta
Serve the dish with rice or pasta to make it a fuller meal.
- Choose white, brown rice, or any pasta you love.
- If you need a gluten-free option, use rice or gluten-free pasta.
- Cooking starches separately allows you to control doneness for perfect texture.
Seasoning/Spice Blend
Seasonings like garlic powder and onion powder elevate the dish’s flavor.
- Use fresh garlic or onions if you’d like a stronger flavor.
- If you’re looking for an alternative, try smoked paprika or Italian seasoning for different undertones.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste; it enhances all other flavors in the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating this comforting dish is simple and stress-free, making it a fantastic choice for both beginners and experienced cooks.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps achieve a nice sear. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This adds depth of flavor to your dish.Step 2: Add to Crockpot
Place the seared chicken breasts in the crockpot. Pour in the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth, stirring to combine. This layered method ensures the chicken absorbs all the delicious flavors.Step 3: Season Generously
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir again to distribute the spices evenly. These seasonings are crucial for enhancing the dish’s overall taste.Step 4: Toss in Broccoli
Add the broccoli florets over the chicken mixture but don’t stir them in. This keeps the broccoli crisp and vibrant against the creamy sauce.Step 5: Melt the Cream Cheese
In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Then, dollop it over the broccoli. This will melt beautifully throughout the cooking process, making your sauce rich and creamy.Step 6: Cook Low and Slow
Cover the crockpot and set it to low for 6 hours. If you’re short on time, you can also cook on high for about 3-4 hours. The dish is done when the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.Step 7: Final Touches
Once cooked, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. This gives the dish its signature cheesy finish. Adjust seasoning if necessary, then serve hot!
How to Serve
- Serve the chicken and broccoli over a bed of fluffy rice or pasta for a complete meal.
- Garnish with extra cheddar cheese or a sprinkle of parsley for visual appeal.
- Ensure portions are generous; this dish is perfect for family-style serving.
- Pair it with a crisp salad or crusty bread to balance flavors.
Family and friends will love every bite!
Additional Tips
- Use fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an added flavor boost.
- Customize the dish by adding other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers.
- For a twist, incorporate spices such as cayenne pepper for a zesty touch.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Cheddar Chicken: Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Delight: Swap broccoli for spinach and add sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
- Cheesy Garlic Parmesan: Mix in grated Parmesan cheese along with cheddar for an extra cheesy flavor.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For best results, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Special Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Frying pan for searing
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
FAQ’s
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used and will cook perfectly in this recipe.Is this dish healthy?
Yes, it includes lean chicken, nutritious vegetables, and can be tailored to lower sodium and fat.Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and start cooking in the morning.Can I customize the spices used?
Yes, feel free to adjust spices according to your taste; add your favorites!What alternative cooking methods can I use?
You can make this in a pressure cooker or bake it in the oven if preferred.
Conclusion
This Comforting Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Delight is sure to become a beloved go-to meal in your household. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and nutritious veggies, it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Relish the warm, comforting flavors, and don’t hesitate to gather your loved ones around the table—it’s time to enjoy!
Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Delight
Ingredients
Method
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel for a nice sear.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Place the seared chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Pour in the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper; stir again.
- Add broccoli florets over the chicken mixture without stirring.
- Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and dollop it over the broccoli.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to low for 6 hours.
- Once cooked, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
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