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How To Cook Healthy Chicken And Broccoli In Slow Cooker

Learn how to make a nutritious and delicious chicken and broccoli meal using a slow cooker for easy and healthy cooking.

If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that requires minimal effort, look no further than chicken and broccoli cooked in a slow cooker. This simple yet flavorful dish is the perfect option for those who want to eat healthy without sacrificing taste.

Chicken is a lean source of protein that is low in fat and high in nutrients. It is also rich in essential amino acids that are vital for maintaining muscle mass and promoting overall well-being. When paired with broccoli, a nutrient-dense vegetable that is packed with vitamins and minerals, you have a meal that is both satisfying and nourishing.

The slow cooker is an excellent tool for cooking chicken and broccoli as it allows the flavors to meld together while keeping the meat tender and juicy. Simply add your chicken, broccoli, and a few seasonings to the slow cooker, set it on low heat, and let it cook for several hours until everything is perfectly cooked.

With this easy recipe, you can enjoy a healthy and delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. So grab your slow cooker and get ready to indulge in a wholesome dish that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.

Healthy Chicken And Broccoli Recipe For Slow Cooker

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  3. Pour the sauce over the chicken breasts.
  4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  5. About 30 minutes before serving, remove the lid and add the broccoli florets to the slow cooker.
  6. Cover the slow cooker again and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes, until the broccoli is cooked but still crisp.
  7. Remove the chicken and broccoli from the slow cooker and transfer to a serving dish.
  8. Optional: if desired, you can thicken the sauce by pouring it into a saucepan and heating it over medium heat on the stovetop. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to make a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the sauce, stirring constantly, until thickened.
  9. Pour the thickened sauce over the chicken and broccoli.
  10. Enjoy your healthy chicken and broccoli slow cooker meal!
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Ingredients And Preparation

To make this healthy chicken and broccoli dish in the slow cooker, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 4 cups broccoli florets
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup water

Here’s how to prepare this delicious meal:

  1. Step 1: In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, ground ginger, and black pepper.
  2. Step 2: Place the chicken pieces in the slow cooker and pour the sauce mixture on top.
  3. Step 3: Add the broccoli florets to the slow cooker. If desired, you can also add other vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers.
  4. Step 4: Pour water into the slow cooker to ensure there is enough liquid to cook the ingredients.
  5. Step 5: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours.
  6. Step 6: Once the cooking time is over, carefully remove the lid and stir the chicken and broccoli.
  7. Step 7: Serve the chicken and broccoli mixture over cooked rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Enjoy this healthy and flavorful chicken and broccoli dish prepared in the convenience of your slow cooker!

Slow Cooker Instructions

To cook healthy chicken and broccoli in a slow cooker, follow these simple steps:

1. Start by preparing the chicken breasts. Trim any excess fat and season them with salt and pepper to taste.

2. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker.

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3. Next, prepare the broccoli by cutting it into small florets.

4. Add the broccoli florets to the slow cooker, arranging them around the chicken breasts.

5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Pour this mixture over the chicken and broccoli in the slow cooker.

6. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 3-4 hours, or on low for 6-8 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is tender.

7. Once the cooking time is complete, remove the chicken and broccoli from the slow cooker using a slotted spoon or tongs. Place them on a serving platter.

8. Pour the remaining liquid from the slow cooker into a small saucepan. Heat it over medium heat until it thickens into a sauce-like consistency.

9. Drizzle the thickened sauce over the chicken and broccoli.

10. Serve the healthy chicken and broccoli hot, and enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal!

Health Benefits and Tips

Eating healthy chicken and broccoli cooked in a slow cooker offers numerous health benefits. Here are some reasons why you should make this dish a regular part of your diet:

1. High Nutritional Value

Chicken is a lean source of protein that is low in fat and calories. It provides all nine essential amino acids that your body needs for optimal muscle growth and repair. Additionally, broccoli is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as dietary fiber, which promotes digestion and helps prevent constipation.

2. Weight Management

By choosing to cook chicken and broccoli in a slow cooker, you can enjoy a satisfying and filling meal without consuming excessive calories. The high protein content in chicken helps keep you feeling full for longer, preventing overeating and aiding in weight management.

3. Heart-Healthy

Chicken is a great source of niacin and vitamin B6, which have been shown to help reduce the risk of heart disease. Furthermore, broccoli contains significant amounts of dietary fiber and antioxidants, which can help lower cholesterol levels and promote heart health.

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4. Immune Support

Broccoli is packed with vitamin C, an essential nutrient for a healthy immune system. By regularly including chicken and broccoli in your diet, you can give your immune system a boost and protect yourself against common illnesses and infections.

Tips for Cooking Healthy Chicken and Broccoli in a Slow Cooker

1. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts to lower the fat content of the dish.

2. Cut the chicken into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking and to maximize the flavor absorption.

3. Add flavor by using herbs and spices instead of excessive amounts of salt or oil.

4. Cook the broccoli separately and add it to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking to avoid overcooking and retain its crispness.

5. Serve the chicken and broccoli over brown rice or quinoa for a complete and nutritious meal.

6. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days.

By following these tips and enjoying the health benefits of this delicious dish, you can make chicken and broccoli in a slow cooker your go-to meal for a nutritious and easy cooking experience.

Questions and answers

What are the ingredients for healthy chicken and broccoli in a slow cooker?

The ingredients for healthy chicken and broccoli in a slow cooker are boneless, skinless chicken breasts, broccoli florets, garlic, soy sauce, honey, chicken broth, and cornstarch.

How long does it take to cook healthy chicken and broccoli in a slow cooker?

It takes about 4 to 6 hours to cook healthy chicken and broccoli in a slow cooker on low heat, or 2 to 3 hours on high heat.

Can I substitute the chicken breasts with another type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs, or even tofu if you prefer a vegetarian option.

Olivia Carter
Olivia Carter

Olivia Carter is a passionate home cook and kitchen tech enthusiast with over 10 years of experience experimenting with innovative appliances and culinary techniques. She loves exploring how technology can simplify cooking while enhancing creativity in the kitchen. Olivia combines her love for food and gadgets to provide practical advice, honest reviews, and inspiring ideas for home cooks of all levels. When she’s not testing the latest kitchen tools, Olivia enjoys hosting dinner parties, developing recipes, and sharing her culinary adventures with the Tech for Cooking community. Her approachable style and expertise make her a trusted voice in the world of modern cooking.

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