The Slow Cooker Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is a dish that offers the comforting embrace of homestyle cooking with the ease of a slow cooker's convenience. Inspired by the traditional flavors found in creamy soups and hearty casseroles, this recipe deftly combines the earthy, verdant tones of broccoli with the rich, velvety charm of cheddar - a classic pair in the American Midwest culinary scene. Incorporating chicken introduces a fulfilling protein, creating a balanced dish perfect for those busy evenings when time is scarce but the desire for a nutritious, homemade meal persists.
To complement this creamy entrée, consider serving it with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping into the sauce. A light, crisp salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. For something heartier, it goes beautifully atop a steaming bed of white or brown rice, soaking up that creamy goodness.
Slow Cooker Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients- 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups of broccoli florets
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon of water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon of paprika or mustard powder for added depth of flavor
Directions1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and place them at the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Scatter the diced onion and minced garlic over the chicken.
3. Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker, ensuring that it covers the chicken.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.
5. After the cooking time, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks; then return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
6. Add the broccoli florets to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce.
8. Cover again and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the sauce has thickened.
9. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
10. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a pinch of paprika or mustard powder if using.
11. Serve warm with your choice of sides.
Variations & Tips- For a healthier twist, substitute the heavy cream with low-fat milk mixed with a tablespoon of all-purpose flour to maintain creaminess.
- Vegetarians can omit the chicken and double the broccoli, or add other vegetables like cauliflower or carrots, transforming it into a Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
- To prevent the chicken from drying out, avoid overcooking it. Keep an eye on the cooker, especially if you're using the high setting.
- Enhance the dish with extra sharp or smoked cheddar for a bolder cheese flavor.
- If time permits, lightly sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker may deepen the final dish's flavors.
