Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Chicken (Printable Version)

Tender chicken and broccoli in a creamy cheddar sauce, slow-cooked to perfection.

# What You Need:

→ Meats

01 - 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1.5 pounds)

→ Vegetables

02 - 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (approximately 1 head)
03 - 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic minced

→ Dairy

05 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
06 - 4 ounces cream cheese softened
07 - 1/2 cup sour cream
08 - 1/2 cup whole milk or 2% milk

→ Pantry Staples

09 - 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
10 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
11 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
12 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
13 - 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
14 - 2 tablespoons cornstarch optional for thickening

# Directions:

01 - Arrange the chicken breasts in an even layer at the bottom of your slow cooker insert.
02 - Distribute the chopped onions, minced garlic, and broccoli florets evenly over the chicken.
03 - In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, softened cream cheese, sour cream, milk, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and black pepper until completely smooth and no lumps remain.
04 - Pour the prepared sauce mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring all pieces are coated.
05 - Cover and cook on high setting for 4 hours or low setting for 6-7 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is tender throughout.
06 - Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker or slice into bite-sized pieces. Stir thoroughly to distribute the meat throughout the sauce.
07 - Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated into the creamy mixture.
08 - If a thicker consistency is desired, combine the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water to create a slurry. Stir into the slow cooker and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
09 - Taste the dish and adjust salt or pepper as needed. Serve immediately, garnished with additional shredded cheddar or fresh herbs if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The creamy cheese sauce becomes something magical after hours of mingling with all those flavors
  • My kids actually ask for broccoli when this is on the menu, which still surprises me
  • Leftovers reheat beautifully for those nights when cooking anything feels impossible
02 -
  • Dairy can sometimes separate if you cook it too long on high, so sticking to the recommended times really matters
  • Letting the cream cheese soften completely prevents those annoying little lumps that never seem to dissolve
  • The sauce will thicken up quite a bit as it stands, so don't panic if it looks thinner than you want right away
03 -
  • Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded bags which have anti-caking ingredients that can make the sauce grainy
  • Place a paper towel under the lid if your slow cooker tends to collect too much moisture on top

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