This 6-Ingredient Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli is an easy comfort-food dinner made with tender chicken, creamy sauce, fresh broccoli, and plenty of melted cheese. Everything comes together with minimal prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper can be added to taste if desired.
Instructions
1. Add the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
Season lightly with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup and sour cream until smooth.
Spread the mixture evenly over the chicken.
3. Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Add the Broccoli
About 30–45 minutes before the end of cooking, add the broccoli florets around and over the chicken.
Cover and continue cooking until the broccoli is tender but still slightly crisp.
5. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the chicken and broccoli.
Cover again and cook for about 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted completely.
6. Serve
Slice or shred the chicken and gently mix it with the creamy sauce and broccoli.
Spoon onto plates and serve immediately while the cheese is warm and gooey.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Chicken
- Fresh broccoli works best because it holds its texture better than frozen broccoli.
- Add the broccoli toward the end so it doesn’t become overly soft.
- Don’t lift the slow cooker lid repeatedly during cooking because heat escapes and cooking time increases.
- For extra flavor, use sharp cheddar cheese.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a small splash of chicken broth or milk before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy chicken and broccoli over:
- White or brown rice
- Egg noodles
- Mashed potatoes
- Cauliflower rice
- Pasta
A simple green salad or warm dinner rolls also make excellent sides.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Make It a Complete Meal
For an even heartier dinner, serve the cheesy chicken and broccoli over rice or pasta. The creamy sauce makes a delicious topping and helps turn this simple six-ingredient dish into a filling family meal.