Welcome to Cozy Cooking!
Hey there! If you’re anything like me, when the weather cools down or even when you just need a comforting meal, you crave something warm and satisfying. That’s exactly what this Slow Cooker Cheddar Chicken & Broccoli brings to the table. It’s creamy, simple to make, and blends the delicious flavors of chicken, broccoli, and cheddar cheese into one delightful dish. Each bite feels like a warm hug, and best of all, you can set it and forget it!
Nutritional Benefits of Cheddar Chicken & Broccoli
When you’re cooking at home, one of the perks is knowing exactly what goes into your meals. This dish is rich in protein from the chicken, which is great for muscle health and keeps you full. Broccoli, on the other hand, is packed with vitamins and fiber—helping digestion and boosting your immune system. Plus, the creamy sauce adds a delightful taste without being too heavy. It’s a great balance of comfort and nutrition!
Adaptable Variations
One thing I love about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are some ideas to tailor it to your liking:
- Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cheese alternative for a creamy texture without the dairy.
- Vegetarian Twist: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or your favorite protein substitute. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly!
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to add in carrots, bell peppers, or even spinach for added nutrition and color.
Slow Cooker Cheddar Chicken & Broccoli Recipe
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or a homemade version)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
Serves 6 people
- Standard main-course portions → 6 servings
Instructions
- Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Season them with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth until well combined. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You want the chicken to be completely cooked and tender.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add your broccoli florets right on top of the chicken mixture.
- Once done, shred the chicken right in the slow cooker for extra flavor absorption. Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve it hot, and enjoy every comforting bite!
Practical Tips for Success
- You can also cook this dish on the stovetop if you’re short on time—just sauté the chicken and add the ingredients together with similar timing!
- If you don’t like broccoli, feel free to swap it out for any of your favorite veggies—cauliflower works wonderfully too!
- This recipe makes great leftovers! Store any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish can be served over rice, pasta, or even in a wrap if you want to switch it up a bit!
Equipment Needed
Here’s a quick list of what you’ll need to make this cozy dish:
- A slow cooker (4-quart or larger works well)
- A mixing bowl for combining the soup and broth
- A cutting board and knife for chopping the broccoli
- A fork or tongs for shredding the chicken
- Serving bowls for a warm and inviting presentation
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients and store them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
- Can this dish be frozen? Yes! It freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and reheat gently when you’re ready to eat.
- Is there a substitute for cream of chicken soup? Definitely! You could make a homemade version using heavy cream, chicken broth, and a bit of flour or cornstarch for thickness.
- How do I make it spicier? Add some red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce for a kick!
Join the Cozy Cooking Community!
I hope you give this Slow Cooker Cheddar Chicken & Broccoli recipe a try! It’s the perfect dish for chilly evenings or when you just want something warm and comforting. If you do make it, I’d love to see how it turns out for you. Snap a picture and share it on Pinterest—let’s spread some cozy vibes together!
