If you’re in the mood for a soul-warming, fuss-free dinner that’s creamy, savory, and guaranteed to bring your family running to the table, this Slow Cooker Broccoli Butter Chicken is just what you need. With tender chicken breasts, vibrant broccoli, and a luxuriously rich, buttery sauce all made effortlessly in your slow cooker, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekend feasts. The combination of Italian herbs, garlic, and Parmesan creates a dish that’s both comforting and just a little bit luxurious, yet easy enough for any night of the week.

Slow Cooker Broccoli Butter Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These thoughtfully selected ingredients keep things simple—while packing in big flavor, delightful texture, and gorgeous pops of color. Each plays a unique part to make the Slow Cooker Broccoli Butter Chicken truly unforgettable.

Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for easy shredding and tender, juicy bites every time.
Fresh broccoli florets: Added toward the end so they stay bright, crisp-tender, and full of nutrients.
Unsalted butter: Adds those signature silky, rich undertones that make this dish pure comfort.
Garlic (minced): Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with robust, aromatic savoriness.
Chicken broth: Helps the chicken stay moist while becoming a flavorful base for the delicious sauce.
Paprika: Brings gentle warmth and a subtle earthiness—plus a splash of color.
Dried Italian seasoning: The perfect blend of herbs for that homey, classic flavor profile.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for bringing out all the lovely flavors in every bite.
Heavy cream: Turns the slow cooker juices into a dreamy, creamy sauce without much effort.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts beautifully into the sauce, lending savory, umami-rich depth.
Olive oil: A final drizzle for just the right amount of fresh flavor and shine at the end.

How to Make Slow Cooker Broccoli Butter Chicken

Step 1: Layer and Season the Chicken

Start by arranging the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle them evenly with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, ensuring every piece is coated in flavor. This step helps the chicken soak up all those fabulous spices as it slow cooks.

Step 2: Add the Garlic and Broth

Scatter the minced garlic over the seasoned chicken, then pour in the chicken broth around the sides. The broth will keep the meat moist and, as it cooks, combine with the garlic to form the base of your sauce.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Chicken

Cover your slow cooker and let it work its magic—cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours. The chicken will become incredibly tender and flavorful, soaking up every bit of seasoning.

Step 4: Add Broccoli and Butter

About 30 minutes before your Slow Cooker Broccoli Butter Chicken is ready, lift the lid and layer the fresh broccoli florets on top of the chicken. Dot the butter across the broccoli so it melts and infuses every bite with creamy richness. Return the lid and continue to cook on high until the broccoli turns luscious and tender.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Once everything is cooked, carefully remove the chicken and broccoli and arrange them on a serving platter. Into the remaining cooking liquid, whisk in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and you have a smooth, dreamy sauce ready to drizzle.

Step 6: Assemble and Finish

Pour the velvety sauce over your chicken and broccoli, making sure every piece gets generously coated. Finish up with a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor and sheen—now your Slow Cooker Broccoli Butter Chicken is ready to be devoured!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Broccoli Butter Chicken

Garnishes

Dress up your platter with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, a handful of freshly chopped parsley, or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. These bright, fresh touches add both color and a final flourish of flavor.

Side Dishes

This creamy chicken and broccoli duo is especially delicious served over fluffy rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or twirlable pasta. Each option soaks up that decadent sauce beautifully, rounding out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a bit of flair, try serving the Slow Cooker Broccoli Butter Chicken family-style on a big platter, or plate it individually over a bed of greens for a lower-carb take. You can also pile it into warm pita pockets or wraps for a fun and portable spin!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only deepen overnight, so you’ll have an extra-tasty lunch or quick dinner waiting.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze your Slow Cooker Broccoli Butter Chicken, allow it to cool completely first. Store the chicken, broccoli, and sauce together in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave—just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between, for perfectly creamy results.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can swap in frozen broccoli florets—just add them 20–25 minutes before the end of cooking to ensure they don’t get too soft.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk makes a good substitute, though the sauce will be a bit less rich.

Can I make Slow Cooker Broccoli Butter Chicken with chicken thighs?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs bring extra juiciness and a slightly deeper flavor—just adjust the cooking time, as thighs may finish a bit sooner.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as written, Slow Cooker Broccoli Butter Chicken is naturally gluten-free—just double-check that your chicken broth and seasonings don’t contain any hidden gluten.

How can I add extra heat or flavor?

For a spicier kick, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or a diced chili when seasoning the chicken, or stir in a spoonful of pesto to the sauce for a flavorful twist.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a crave-worthy weeknight dinner that delivers comfort, convenience, and a touch of decadence, give Slow Cooker Broccoli Butter Chicken a try. I promise, the combination of easy prep and flavor-packed results will make it a new favorite in your regular rotation. Let your slow cooker do the work, and enjoy every creamy, delicious bite!

Slow Cooker Broccoli Butter Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 21 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (low) or 2 hours 15 minutes (high)
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Slow Cooker Broccoli Butter Chicken recipe is a delicious and creamy dish that is perfect for a comforting meal. Tender chicken breasts cooked in a flavorful broth with broccoli, butter, and Parmesan cheese create a rich and satisfying dish that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning:

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste

Broccoli and Sauce:

4 cups fresh broccoli florets
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil

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Instructions

Prepare Slow Cooker: Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker, season with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add minced garlic and chicken broth.
Cook Chicken: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until chicken is cooked through.
Add Broccoli: About 30 minutes before serving, add broccoli florets on top of the chicken. Place butter pieces over the broccoli.
Finish Cooking: Cover and continue cooking on high until broccoli is tender. Remove chicken and broccoli to a serving dish.
Make Sauce: Stir heavy cream and Parmesan cheese into the slow cooker juices to create a creamy sauce.
Serve: Pour sauce over chicken and broccoli. Drizzle with olive oil before serving.