Welcome to our detailed guide on the Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli recipe. This dish is perfect for busy individuals who crave a nutritious and delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can achieve a tender and flavorful chicken dish paired with crisp broccoli.

What is Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli?

The Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli is a savory and wholesome meal that combines tender chicken breasts with vibrant broccoli florets, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. This recipe is known for its simplicity and rich flavors, making it a favorite among home cooks.

Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Other Pioneer Woman Recipes

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Effortless Cooking: Minimal preparation and the slow cooker does the work.
Nutritious and Delicious: Packed with protein and vegetables.
Versatile: Pairs well with various side dishes.

Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.

Ingredients Needed for Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

4 cups broccoli florets
1 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions to Make Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli

Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the slow cooker with olive oil.
Season the Chicken: Sprinkle chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Add Ingredients: Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker, add chicken broth and soy sauce.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours.
Prepare Broccoli: In the last 30 minutes, add broccoli florets to the slow cooker.

Thicken the Sauce: Mix cornstarch with water and stir into the slow cooker.
Finish Cooking: Cook for an additional 30 minutes until the sauce thickens and broccoli is tender.

What Goes Well With Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli

Steamed Rice: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.

Mashed Potatoes: Adds a creamy texture to the meal.
Quinoa: A healthy and protein-packed side option.
Garlic Bread: Great for a crunchy complement.

Caesar Salad: Adds a refreshing, crisp contrast.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and broccoli ensure the best flavor.
Cut Evenly: Cut broccoli into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

Don’t Overcook: Avoid mushy broccoli by adding it towards the end of cooking.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Thicken the Sauce: Use cornstarch to achieve the desired sauce consistency.

Monitor Cooking Time: Slow cookers can vary, so check for doneness early.

Variations of Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli

Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a kick.
Creamy Option: Mix in cream cheese or heavy cream for a richer sauce.

Vegetable Mix: Include carrots or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
Lemon Flavor: Add lemon juice and zest for a citrusy twist.
Ginger Infusion: Incorporate fresh ginger for an Asian-inspired flavor.

Storing Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli: Best Practices

Airtight Containers: Store leftovers in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze portions for up to 3 months for longer storage.

Label and Date: Ensure containers are labeled with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli: Best Practices

Microwave: Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes until hot.
Stovetop: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Add Moisture: Add a splash of broth or water if the dish seems dry.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

Calories: 250

Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fat: 10g

Saturated Fat: 2g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 2g

Sodium: 700mg

FAQs

How do I prevent the broccoli from becoming mushy in the slow cooker?

To prevent broccoli from becoming mushy, add it to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This ensures it retains its crisp-tender texture. Additionally, cut the broccoli into evenly sized florets to promote even cooking.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli instead of fresh. Add the frozen broccoli in the last 30 minutes of cooking, just as you would with fresh broccoli. There’s no need to thaw it beforehand, as it will cook perfectly in the slow cooker.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker about 30 minutes before the cooking time is complete. Allow it to cook for the remaining time, which will thicken the sauce nicely.

What should I do if my chicken breasts are too large for the slow cooker?

If your chicken breasts are too large for the slow cooker, consider cutting them into smaller pieces or strips. This will ensure they cook evenly and thoroughly. Alternatively, you can pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before adding them to the slow cooker.

Final Words

The Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients and a slow cooker can create a delicious, nutritious, and family-friendly meal. Whether you’re a busy professional or a home cook looking for a hassle-free dinner option, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the ease and flavor of this delightful dish!

Other Yummy Recipes:

Ina Garten Chicken Cordon Bleu