Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Delight Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal that comes together with minimal fuss, then you are absolutely going to adore this Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Delight. It’s the perfect blend of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and luscious cheddar cheese all swimming in a velvety, creamy sauce that practically melts in your mouth. This dish is an absolute celebration of flavors and textures that’s ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners when you want something both nourishing and indulgent without a mountain of cleanup.

Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Delight Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the first step to making your Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Delight a true standout. Each one plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this recipe so irresistible.

  • 2 lbs Chicken Breast: The lean protein base that soaks up all the creamy goodness as it cooks low and slow.
  • 4 cups Broccoli Florets: Adds vibrant green color and a satisfying tender-crisp texture when cooked just right.
  • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded: The star that brings cheesiness and richness, melting perfectly into the sauce.
  • 1 can Cream Soup, condensed: The creamy backbone that ties all the ingredients together into a luscious sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Infuses a fragrant depth of savory flavor without overpowering the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder: Adds subtle sweetness and complexity to the overall taste.
  • Salt and Pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the flavors.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth: Keeps the ingredients moist and adds a hint of savory tanginess.

How to Make Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Delight

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by gently placing the two pounds of chicken breasts evenly in the bottom of your slow cooker. Spacing them out ensures they cook uniformly and absorb all the delicious seasonings that are coming their way.

Step 2: Add the Cream Soup

Next, pour the entire can of condensed cream soup over the chicken in an even layer. This will be the luscious base for your sauce, cozying up every bite with creamy goodness.

Step 3: Mix in the Broccoli

Layer the broccoli florets evenly on top of the chicken and cream soup. The broccoli will steam to tender perfection, creating a wonderful pop of color and freshness in the dish.

Step 4: Season Thoughtfully

Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper all over the ingredients in the crockpot. These simple spices elevate the flavor profile and bring out the best in every element.

Step 5: Pour in the Chicken Broth

Carefully add the chicken broth, helping to meld the flavors and introduce just enough moisture to keep the chicken juicy and tender throughout the long cooking process.

Step 6: Let It Cook Low and Slow

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow simmer allows the chicken, broccoli, and creamy sauce to harmonize into pure comfort food magic.

Step 7: Add the Cheddar Cheese

Once cooked through, shred the chicken right in the crockpot for that perfect texture. Then, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely, creating a rich, dreamy consistency.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Finish your Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Delight with your favorite garnishes and dig in while warm. This dish is ready to delight taste buds and hearts alike.

How to Serve Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Delight

Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Delight Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Consider topping your dish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color and fresh flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture. A sprinkle of extra sharp cheddar or crispy fried onions also amps up the decadence and presentation.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy mashed potatoes, buttery dinner rolls, or even a simple quinoa salad for a lighter option. The creamy sauce is so flavorful, you’ll want something that balances its richness without overshadowing it.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Delight over cooked pasta, or spoon it into warm tortillas to make comforting cheesy wraps. You can also layer it into a casserole dish, topping with extra cheese and breadcrumbs for a crispy finish under the broiler.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh and flavorful for up to four days, making for easy lunches or dinner the next day.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully! Cool completely, then transfer into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally to maintain that silky, creamy texture. If it seems a bit thick, a splash of chicken broth or milk will loosen it up perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well and can be a convenient swap. Just be mindful that it may release a bit more moisture during cooking, which could slightly affect the sauce’s thickness.

Is there a substitute for the condensed cream soup?

You can make your own homemade cream sauce using a simple roux with butter, flour, milk, and a bit of chicken broth if you’d prefer to avoid canned soup. It adds a lovely, fresh flavor to the dish.

Can I use thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you like a juicier, more flavorful meat. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed to ensure they’re cooked through and tender.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, try sprinkling in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes along with the other seasonings. It adds a nice warmth without overpowering the creamy, cheesy flavors.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Definitely! The Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Delight is perfect for making ahead and portioning into containers for quick, satisfying meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Delight that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. It’s easy to make, comforting beyond words, and loved by everyone at the table. I can’t recommend it enough for those days when you want a delicious meal without the stress. Trust me, once you make this, it will become one of your go-to favorites too!

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Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Delight Recipe

This Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Delight is a comforting and easy-to-make slow cooker recipe featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a creamy cheese sauce with fresh broccoli florets. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines savory flavors with rich cheddar cheese for a hearty, satisfying meal.

  • Author: Lily
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high
  • Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes to 8 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 lbs Chicken Breast

Vegetables

  • 4 cups Broccoli Florets

Dairy

  • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded

Pantry

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) Cream Soup, condensed (such as cream of chicken or cream of mushroom)
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • Salt and Pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by placing two pounds of chicken breasts into your slow cooker. Arrange them evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
  2. Add the Soup: Pour the can of condensed cream soup over the chicken, spreading it evenly to cover the meat.
  3. Mix in the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets on top of the chicken and soup, distributing them evenly so they cook tender throughout.
  4. Season: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over all the ingredients to infuse flavor.
  5. Pour in the Broth: Carefully add one cup of chicken broth to help combine the ingredients and maintain moisture during cooking.
  6. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, depending on your available time.
  7. Add Cheese: Once cooking is complete, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot, then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Add your favorite garnishes such as fresh herbs or extra cheese if desired, then serve this warm, delicious dish immediately.

Notes

  • You can substitute broccoli with cauliflower or a mix of vegetables for variation.
  • If you prefer lower fat, use reduced-fat cheddar cheese and a low-fat cream soup.
  • For a gluten-free version, ensure the cream soup and broth are certified gluten-free.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • This recipe freezes well; reheat thoroughly before serving.
  • Shredding the chicken in the crockpot allows it to soak up even more of the creamy sauce flavor.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1/6th of recipe)
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

Keywords: crockpot chicken, creamy chicken recipe, broccoli cheddar chicken, slow cooker dinners, easy chicken recipes

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