Introduction
Welcome to a cozy kitchen delight that will quickly become a family favorite—the Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole! If you’re on the lookout for a hearty, comforting meal that requires minimal effort, you’re in the right place. This recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious cheese sauce, all cooked to perfection in your trusty slow cooker.
Whether you’re busy with work, handling the kids, or simply enjoying a lazy day at home, this hands-off meal makes dinner a breeze. Just toss everything into the crockpot in the morning and let it work its magic. By evening, you’ll be greeted with a savory dish that embodies everything we love about comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying!
Plus, this casserole is versatile and can easily be customized to suit your family’s tastes. From switching up the veggies to experimenting with different types of cheese, the possibilities are endless! So grab your crockpot, and let’s dive into this deliciously cheesy journey!
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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- In the crockpot, place the boneless chicken breasts at the bottom.
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- Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper over the chicken.
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- Add the uncooked brown rice evenly over the chicken.
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- Pour in the chicken broth and milk, making sure the rice is submerged.
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- Gently place the broccoli florets on top of the rice and chicken mixture.
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- Next, pour the cream of chicken soup over the broccoli, spreading it out evenly.
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- Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for about 4-5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and shreds easily.
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- Add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese into the crockpot, stirring gently to combine.
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- Cover again and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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- Once ready, serve warm and garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 4 hr 30 min | Servings: 6
Key Ingredients
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Around 2 pounds, cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Broccoli Florets: Fresh or frozen, about 4 cups, providing vitamins and a vibrant color.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 can (10.5 oz) to add creaminess and depth of flavor.
- Cream Cheese: 8 oz, softened for a rich, cheesy base.
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups shredded, for that gooey, melty texture and classic flavor.
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon to enhance the overall taste.
- Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon for added savory notes.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
- Rice: 1 cup uncooked, to make the dish more filling (optional).
- Chicken Broth: 1 cup if using rice, to cook the rice properly in the crockpot.
This combination of ingredients creates a comforting, cheesy dish that’s perfect for busy nights!
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, condensed cream of chicken soup, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Optional ingredients could include a splash of milk for creaminess and breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
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Chop the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Ensure they are uniform in size for even cooking.
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Blend the Base: In a medium bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If you’re using milk, stir it in to achieve a creamy, pourable consistency.
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Layer in the Crockpot: Start by placing the cut chicken pieces at the bottom of the crockpot. Add the broccoli florets evenly over the chicken. Pour the creamy mixture over the top, ensuring everything is well coated.
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Add Cheese: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mixture in the crockpot. Reserve the remaining cheese for later.
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Cook the Casserole: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. You want the chicken to be fully cooked through and the broccoli tender.
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Check for Doneness: After the cooking time, check that the chicken is no longer pink in the center and that the broccoli is cooked to your desired tenderness. If necessary, allow it to cook longer.
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Add the Final Touch: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Cover again and allow the cheese to melt and become bubbly.
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(Optional) Add Crunch: If you like a crunchy topping, you can mix breadcrumbs with a little melted butter and sprinkle it on top during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This will give your casserole a delicious golden crust.
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Serve: Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, turn off the crockpot. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or crusty bread.
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Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave until warmed through.
Enjoy your comforting and cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole, perfect for busy weeknights!
Serving Suggestions
This delicious Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is a meal in itself, but you can enhance your dining experience with a few thoughtful serving suggestions:
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Serve with a Side Salad: Pair your casserole with a light side salad, featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors of the dish.
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Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread or buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce. Slice it up and serve on the side for a satisfying addition.
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Steamed Veggies: Keep it light and nutritious by serving some steamed or sautéed vegetables, such as green beans or carrots, alongside the casserole.
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Add a Protein: If you want to bulk up the meal, consider adding grilled shrimp, roasted chicken, or a protein of your choice on the side. This will appeal to those who may want an extra protein boost.
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Top with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or chives over the casserole for a burst of color and freshness. This adds an aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor.
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Lighten It Up: For a lighter option, serve the casserole with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a spoonful of sour cream on top. This not only adds creaminess but also a tangy contrast.
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Crispy Onions or Fried Garlic: For some crunch, consider topping your casserole with crispy fried onions or garlic before serving. This adds texture and flavor, making each bite more delightful.
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Use as a Filling: Scoop the casserole into wraps or pita bread for a fun twist. This makes for a portable meal that’s great for leftovers or lunch on the go.
These suggestions can help elevate your Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole into a well-rounded meal that caters to various tastes and preferences! Enjoy your feast!
Conclusion
This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is the perfect solution for busy weeknights, offering a comforting meal with minimal effort. The slow-cooked flavors meld beautifully, creating a creamy and cheesy dish that both kids and adults will love. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious, wholesome meal ready to serve when you need it most.
Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your family’s preferences—add in some wild rice for extra texture, swap out the broccoli for your favorite vegetables, or kick it up a notch with spices or extra cheese. This casserole not only satisfies the taste buds but also makes for great leftovers, making it an ideal choice for meal prepping.
Try this recipe out, and let the slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the delightful aromas wafting through your home. Your family will be begging for seconds! Happy cooking!
