Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken: A Comforting Delight
When it comes to easy and delicious dinner ideas, the Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken stands out as a family favorite. This dish combines tender chicken with the rich flavors of broccoli and cheddar cheese, resulting in a hearty meal that warms the soul. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe allows the slow cooker to do all the work while you focus on other tasks. Let’s dive into how to make this comforting dish!
Ingredients
Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen if you prefer)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup milk (or heavy cream for extra creaminess)
- Optional: Cooked rice or pasta for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot
Start by ensuring your slow cooker is clean and ready for use. If you prefer, you can spray it with non-stick cooking spray to make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Add the Chicken
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Season the chicken lightly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and milk (or heavy cream). Mix until smooth. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
Step 4: Add the Broccoli and Cheese
Carefully add the broccoli florets on top of the chicken and soup mixture. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the broccoli.
Step 5: Cook on Low
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and tender enough to shred easily.
Step 6: Shred and Serve
Once the cooking time is up, take two forks and shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. Mix everything together, allowing the broccoli and cheese to mingle with the creamy sauce. If you’re serving over rice or pasta, prepare that in advance.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Spoon the creamy broccoli cheddar chicken over your prepared rice or pasta, and enjoy this comforting, flavorful meal with your family. Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra cheddar cheese on top for good measure!
Tips for Customization
- Add Some Spice: If you like a little kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the mix.
- Veggie Variety: Feel free to mix in other vegetables such as carrots, cauliflower, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
- Make It Low-Carb: Serve the dish over steamed cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice or pasta to keep it low-carb.
Conclusion
The Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings comfort and warmth to your dinner table. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for an easy yet satisfying dish. So, dust off your crockpot and give this recipe a whirl—you won’t regret it!
