Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

If you’re anything like me and love a dinner that practically makes itself while filling your kitchen with incredible aromas, then this Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Recipe is going to become your new go-to. It’s hands-off, so you can get on with your day, yet it delivers on big flavors – sweet, savory, a touch sticky, with fresh broccoli adding just the right green crunch. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll be on repeat, especially when life gets busy but you still want a comforting, homemade meal.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Recipe lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to make a sauce you’ll want to spoon on everything. You’ll be surprised by how few components deliver such a layered flavor, plus the broccoli steams right in the crockpot, absorbing the sauce perfectly.

• Chicken breasts or thighs: I prefer thighs here because they stay juicy, but breasts work fine if you keep an eye on cooking times.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic is a must to get that punch of flavor that pairs so well with honey.
• Tamari or soy sauce: Tamari is my go-to for gluten-free options, and it adds a rich umami depth.
• Organic ketchup: Adds subtle tang and sweetness; use your favorite brand.
• Honey: The star sweetener that balances garlic and heat beautifully.
• Chili paste: This is where you adjust the heat level – start with less and add more if you like it fiery.
• Rice vinegar: Adds a bright acidity that cuts through the sweetness.
• Black pepper: Freshly ground is best to enhance all the flavors.
• Broccoli florets: Fresh and crisp, they hold up well in the slow cooker without turning mushy.
• Fresh herbs (scallions, cilantro): These bring freshness and a pop of color to the finished dish.
• Toasted sesame seeds: I sprinkle these on last for a nutty crunch and a beautiful finish.
• Rice: Plain steamed rice is my favorite base to soak up that incredible sauce.

Variations

I love making this recipe my own depending on what’s in the fridge or my mood. Don’t hesitate to tweak the sauce or swap out veggies – it’s surprisingly flexible and still turns out delicious every time!

• Spicy Upgrade: When I want a real kick, I add a teaspoon of sriracha alongside the chili paste, and my family goes wild for the extra heat.
• Vegetable Swap: Tried this with snap peas or green beans instead of broccoli for a different crunch that’s just as tasty.
• Protein Swap: Sometimes, I use boneless pork chops or tofu for a fun twist, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce to keep this recipe friendly for gluten-sensitive eaters.

How to Make Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Step 1: Layer the Chicken and Garlic

Start by placing your chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of the crockpot. I like to use thighs for extra tenderness, but breasts work just fine – just be mindful of cooking times to avoid drying out. Then scatter the chopped garlic evenly over the chicken; this fresh garlic really flakes into the sauce later and gives it that irresistible aroma.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Honey Garlic Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix tamari (or soy sauce), ketchup, honey, chili paste, rice vinegar, and a pinch of black pepper. This combination creates that signature honey garlic flavor with a little tang and heat. Pour this sauce evenly over the chicken and garlic. Don’t worry if it feels like a small amount of liquid—you’ll find it thickens beautifully later.

Step 3: Add Broccoli and Slow Cook

Next, add your broccoli florets right on top. I like that the broccoli steams gently in the crockpot, soaking up the sauce without getting mushy. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1-2 hours. This timing lets the chicken get tender while the broccoli stays vibrant and just cooked through.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, crank the slow cooker to high, remove the lid, and let the sauce cook uncovered for about 25 minutes. This step is key—I learned that without it, the sauce can be a little thin. The heat thickens and concentrates those flavors so every bite is deliciously saucy.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Serve your Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli over rice, and sprinkle with fresh chopped scallions or cilantro and toasted sesame seeds. This simple finishing touch adds freshness and a lovely texture contrast that I always look forward to. Enjoy every spoonful!

How to Serve Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Garnishes

I usually top this dish with a handful of freshly chopped scallions and cilantro. It adds a burst of herbaceous brightness that cuts through the sweet-salty sauce perfectly. Toasted sesame seeds are a must for me too—they add a subtle crunch and a lovely nutty flavor that I absolutely adore.

Side Dishes

Steamed jasmine or basmati rice is my favorite base for this meal because it soaks up the sauce like a dream. Sometimes, I mix in some cauliflower rice if I want to lighten things up. A simple cucumber salad on the side also adds a refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch when friends are over, I like to plate the chicken and broccoli over a bed of sticky rice molded into neat shapes using little bowls. Garnishing with edible flowers alongside the herbs makes it feel extra festive, and everyone always asks for the recipe!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and it keeps beautifully for 3-4 days. The flavors even deepen a bit overnight, making the next-day lunch even better (if that’s possible!). Just be sure to cool it before refrigerating to keep everything fresh.

Freezing

This Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli freezes really well. I portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, the microwave works in a pinch—just cover to retain moisture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Recipe has seriously become a staple in my kitchen because it’s just so simple yet ridiculously tasty. It’s the kind of meal you can trust to come together effortlessly, making weeknights easier and more delicious. I hope you’ll give it a try and enjoy it as much as my family and I do – it’s like a warm hug on a plate, every single time.

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