Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli is one of my favorite go-to meals. It’s not just delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. The combination of tender chicken, sweet honey, and savory garlic creates a dish that my family loves. Plus, it all comes together in the slow cooker, making it an easy weeknight dinner.
Why I Love Using a Crock Pot
I have to admit, I am a huge fan of my Crock Pot. It saves me so much time in the kitchen. I can toss in my ingredients in the morning, set the timer, and come home to a hot meal. There’s something comforting about knowing dinner is ready without any last-minute fuss.
Ingredients for Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli
Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish. I always keep these ingredients on hand for a quick and easy dinner.
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium works great)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
How to Prepare Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli
The preparation for this meal is a breeze. I like to start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This helps the chicken cook evenly and absorb all the flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and sesame oil. This sauce is what makes the dish so tasty.
- Add Chicken to the Crock Pot: Place the chicken pieces into the Crock Pot. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken, making sure to coat it well.
- Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for about 4-5 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook it on high for 2-3 hours.
- Add Broccoli: About 30 minutes before serving, add the broccoli to the Crock Pot. This way, it stays bright green and tender-crisp.
Thickening the Sauce
I love a good sauce that clings to the chicken. To thicken the sauce, I mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the Crock Pot about 15 minutes before serving. This gives the sauce a nice, glossy finish.
Serving Ideas for Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli
When it comes to serving, I usually go for a bed of rice or noodles. The honey garlic sauce is perfect for soaking into the grains. Here are some ideas:
- Serve over steamed white rice
- Pair with brown rice for a healthier option
- Toss with noodles for a quick pasta dish
Making it a Complete Meal
To make this dish even more balanced, I often serve it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables. This adds color and nutrition to the meal.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, you’re in luck! This dish keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. I usually store it in an airtight container. Reheating is easy; just pop it in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezing Options
I also love that this recipe freezes well. If I make a double batch, I can freeze half for a busy night. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
Nutritional Information
While I don’t focus too much on calories, I like to be mindful of what I’m eating. This dish is packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from the broccoli. Here’s a rough estimate per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 8g
Tips for Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli
Here are some tips I’ve gathered over the years to ensure your Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli turns out perfectly:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Crock Pot: Make sure there’s enough space for the chicken to cook evenly. If you have a smaller Crock Pot, consider cooking in batches.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and broccoli can make a big difference in flavor.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, feel free to reduce the amount of honey.
Variations on Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli
I love experimenting with different flavors. Here are some variations you can try with this recipe:
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to throw in other veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added color and nutrition.
- Spice it Up: If you like a kick, add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
- Switch the Protein: You can easily swap chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different protein option.
Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli is a dish I can always count on. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this recipe is sure to please. I hope you give it a try and enjoy it as much as I do!