Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure that will make your weeknight dinners a breeze! If you’re in need of a comforting dish that’s both incredibly easy to prepare and bursting with flavors, look no further than this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole. This hearty meal brings together tender, juicy chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese into a luscious, satisfying dish that the whole family will love.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the convenience of cooking in a crockpot. Just toss in your ingredients, set it, and let your slow cooker do the magic while you go about your day. Whether you’re rushing home from work, busy with kids’ activities, or simply enjoying a lazy day at home, this casserole is the perfect solution for a wholesome meal with minimal effort.
Prepare to impress your loved ones with this creamy, cheesy delight that is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. So grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into this easy, comforting favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your household!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup uncooked brown rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
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- Begin by placing the boneless chicken breasts in the base of the crockpot.
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- Evenly distribute the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper over the chicken.
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- Scatter the uncooked brown rice on top of the chicken layer.
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- Pour the chicken broth and milk into the pot, ensuring the rice gets submerged in the liquid.
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- Carefully arrange the broccoli florets atop the chicken and rice mixture.
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- Next, pour the cream of chicken soup over the broccoli, smoothing it out evenly across the surface.
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- Cover the crockpot and cook on a low setting for approximately 4-5 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and easily shreddable.
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- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese into the crockpot, mixing gently to combine everything.
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- Replace the lid and allow it to cook for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese is thoroughly melted and bubbly.
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- When ready, serve hot and sprinkle with chopped green onions if you wish.
- Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 4 hr 30 min | Servings: 6
Key Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
- Broccoli: 4 cups of fresh or frozen broccoli florets
- Cheddar cheese: 2 cups of shredded sharp or mild cheddar cheese
- Cream of chicken soup: 1 can (10.5 oz) for added creaminess
- Rice: 1 cup of uncooked white or brown rice
- Chicken broth: 2 cups for cooking the rice and enhancing flavor
- Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced (or 1 teaspoon of garlic powder)
- Onion: 1 medium onion, diced
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Olive oil: 1-2 tablespoons for sautéing the chicken (optional)
- Optional toppings: Additional cheese for melting on top, breadcrumbs, or green onions for garnish
Baking Process
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Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by gathering all your ingredients. You will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fresh or frozen broccoli florets, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. If you want a bit more flavor, consider adding breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a topping.
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Season the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Season both sides generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This step adds a flavorful base to the dish.
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Add the Broccoli: Layer the broccoli florets over the seasoned chicken. If you’re using frozen broccoli, there’s no need to thaw it; just add it directly to the crockpot.
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Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. This will create a creamy, cheesy sauce that brings everything together. Stir well to combine.
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Assemble the Casserole: Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken and broccoli, ensuring everything is well-coated. Spread it out evenly for maximum flavor distribution.
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Cook in the Crockpot: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Cooking on low will yield a juicier chicken, while high will save time.
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Check for Doneness: About 30 minutes before serving, check the chicken for doneness. If it registers 165°F (75°C) on a meat thermometer, it’s ready. If you like your cheese extra melty, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole and cover to melt.
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Final Touches: Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot, mixing it with the sauce and broccoli. If you’d like some crunch, consider sprinkling breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top and briefly placing the lid back on to let it crisp up.
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Serve and Enjoy: Scoop generous portions of your cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole onto plates. Pair it with a side of rice, quinoa, or crusty bread, and enjoy this comforting, creamy dish that’s sure to please the whole family!
Serving Suggestions
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Side Salad: Pair your casserole with a fresh side salad to add a light and crunchy contrast. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette works wonderfully.
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Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a comforting and hearty meal. The crispy texture will complement the creamy casserole beautifully.
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Steamed Vegetables: Balance out your dish with a side of steamed vegetables like carrots, green beans, or asparagus. This adds a nutritious touch and extra color to your plate.
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Rice or Quinoa: For a heartier option, consider serving the casserole over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. This will soak up some of the delicious cheesy sauce.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can provide a sweet contrast to the savory flavors in the casserole. Try a mix of seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus for a delightful touch.
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Biscuit Topping: If you’re feeling adventurous, serve the casserole with some warm biscuits on the side. They can be used to scoop up the casserole, creating a fun and interactive dining experience.
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Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon over the casserole just before serving can brighten the flavors and add a zesty kick that contrasts nicely with the creaminess.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions based on your taste preferences and the occasion!
Conclusion
This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is the perfect comfort food for those busy weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and rich, cheesy goodness creates a delightful dish that everyone will love. Plus, the slow-cooking method ensures that all the flavors meld beautifully, giving you a hearty and satisfying result every time.
With just a few simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can set this dish to cook in your crockpot and go about your day, knowing that a delicious meal awaits you in the evening. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete and comforting meal. We hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful casserole as much as we do! Happy cooking!
