Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli (Better Than Takeout!)

Looking for a simple, wholesome dinner that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl? This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli is your go-to recipe. It’s the perfect mix of tender, juicy chicken, fresh green broccoli, and a rich garlic-ginger soy sauce that tastes just like your favorite Asian takeout—only healthier and homemade. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is a lifesaver.

You’ll love how little effort this dish requires. Just throw everything into your slow cooker, go about your day, and come back to a warm, flavorful dinner ready to serve over fluffy rice or slurpy noodles.

Ingredients

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Here’s everything you need to make this delicious dish come to life:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
• 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh is best, but frozen works too—see tips below)
• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free version)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons honey (or substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (adds depth and that signature takeout taste)
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 3 tablespoons water (for thickening)
• Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
• 2 tablespoons green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, but great for texture and flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Sauce

Start by adding your chicken pieces to the bottom of your slow cooker. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, chicken broth, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour this flavorful sauce over the chicken and stir everything gently to coat.

Step 2: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, depending on your schedule. The chicken should be tender and easily shred with a fork when it’s ready.

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce and Add the Broccoli

In a small bowl, stir together the cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Pour this into the slow cooker and give everything a quick mix. Then, add the broccoli florets right on top. Cover again and cook on HIGH for another 30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the broccoli is crisp-tender.

Tip: If you like softer broccoli, you can add it in a bit earlier—around 45–60 minutes before serving.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Give everything one final stir, then serve over freshly cooked rice or noodles. Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds for that restaurant-style finish.

This dish smells amazing as it cooks—your whole kitchen will fill with the savory, slightly sweet aroma that makes you instantly hungry.

Serving Suggestions

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This slow cooker chicken and broccoli pairs beautifully with:

• Steamed jasmine or basmati rice – a classic combo that soaks up the sauce perfectly
• Noodles – like ramen, soba, or lo mein for a heartier meal
• Cauliflower rice – a lighter, low-carb option
• Quinoa – for added protein and texture

Want a full dinner spread? Serve it alongside vegetable spring rolls, steamed dumplings, or a simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar.

Tips and Tricks

• Fresh vs. Frozen Broccoli: Fresh broccoli will give you that perfect tender-crisp texture. If using frozen, thaw it first and reduce cook time slightly to prevent mushiness.
• Switch up the Sweetener: Don’t have honey? Brown sugar adds a lovely caramel depth. Maple syrup also works for a different spin.
• Make It Spicy: Like a bit of heat? Add a drizzle of sriracha, or go bold with chili garlic sauce stirred into the broth.
• Thicker Sauce: If your sauce is too thin for your liking, stir in a little more cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tsp water) and cook uncovered for a few extra minutes.
• Add More Veggies: This recipe is super flexible! Bell peppers, shredded carrots, snap peas, or baby corn all work well. Add them in the last 30–45 minutes so they retain some bite.

Variations

• Teriyaki-Style: Replace the soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for a sweeter, more kid-friendly flavor.
• Keto-Friendly: Serve over cauliflower rice and reduce the honey or sugar.
• Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and soy sauce. You can also dilute with a splash of water if needed.
• Meal Prep Hero: This is one of those recipes that tastes even better the next day. Portion into containers with rice and you’re set for the week!

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully!
• Freezer: Cool the chicken and sauce completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time by 1–2 hours on low. Be sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep everything the night before and store the bowl (covered) in the fridge. Just place it in the slow cooker the next day and start cooking.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Add shredded rotisserie chicken during the last 30 minutes of cooking, right before adding the broccoli.

What size slow cooker should I use?
A 4- to 6-quart slow cooker works best for this recipe. If doubling, make sure there’s enough room for the sauce and veggies to simmer properly.

Can I make this on the stovetop?
Definitely! Sauté the chicken until golden, then pour in the sauce and let simmer until thickened. Add broccoli in the last few minutes and cook until just tender.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—simple, comforting, and full of flavor. It’s healthier than takeout and comes together with minimal prep and effort. You’ll love how versatile and customizable it is, and it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

Whether you’re cooking for a family or just for yourself, this is one of those feel-good dishes that delivers every time. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!