Need a simple, flavorful meal that fits your busy schedule? This slow cooker chicken and broccoli recipe is my go-to for effortless weeknight dinners. As someone who's relied on slow cookers for years to feed my family nutritious meals without the hassle, I can vouch for its reliability.
Prep takes just minutes, then let the slow cooker work its magic while you tackle your day. The result? Tender chicken, fluffy brown rice, and vibrant broccoli in a creamy, cheese-infused sauce that's far superior to stovetop versions—smoother and more comforting.
Contents
- Ingredients for 6 people
- How to
- Result
- Other ways to cook broccoli
- Additional tips
This dish isn't just convenient—it's packed with wholesome ingredients like brown rice, fresh broccoli, and a touch of low-fat Greek yogurt for creaminess without the guilt. At under 400 calories per serving, it's a smart choice for health-conscious eaters.
Ingredients for 6 people
- 1 small onion, minced
- 200g long grain brown rice, rinsed and drained
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon crushed garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 500 ml low-salt chicken broth
- 500g chicken fillets
- 500 g broccoli, cut into small pieces
- 100 g light or regular Greek yoghurt (optional, for more creaminess)
- 100g parmesan powder
- 200 g grated cheddar cheese
How to
- Place the onion, brown rice, Dijon mustard, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker.
- Pour the broth on top and mix well.
- Add the chicken fillets.
- Cover and cook on High for 2½ to 3½ hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice has absorbed most of the broth.
- Add the broccoli directly over the rice and chicken for the last hour of cooking.
- Transfer the chicken to a cutting board.
- Stir in the Greek yogurt, Parmesan, and cheddar cheese.
- Shred or chop the chicken and return it to the cooker with the broccoli. Mix well and serve.
Result
Your creamy slow cooker chicken and broccoli is ready! It's a hit with the whole family—easy, time-saving, and delicious. Cleanup is a breeze too; my proven trick keeps it spotless.
Love slow cookers? Try my chicken stroganoff or homemade bread next. For more chicken-broccoli inspiration, check out my cheesy gratin recipe.
Other ways to cook broccoli
Slow cooking softens broccoli's color, but steaming preserves its crunch and nutrients. In a saucepan, add 200ml water, broccoli florets, cover, and boil for 2-5 minutes until crisp-tender. Avoid overcooking. Microwave or roasting works great too.
Additional tips
- Use long-grain brown rice, not white, for the best texture.
- Cook on High for firmer rice; low heat makes it mushier. Times vary by model (2.5-3.5 hours), so start early.
- Switch to warm if done early; rice absorbs remaining liquid when stirred.
- Don't double the recipe—stick to these amounts for perfect results.
- Rice is ready when most liquid is gone.
