Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
Easy, Creamy, and Family-Friendly Comfort Food
Looking for a delicious and hearty one-pot meal the whole family will love? This Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is the perfect comfort food packed with creamy flavors, tender chicken, melted cheese, and nutritious broccoli. It’s an easy dump-and-go recipe that’s ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
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1.5 pounds chicken breasts, cut into fillets
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2 cups broccoli florets
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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½ cup milk
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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½ cup breadcrumbs
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Chicken for Extra Flavor
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Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
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Season chicken fillets with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
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Sear each side for 3–4 minutes, or until golden brown. This step adds rich flavor and seals in moisture.
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Tip: Searing is optional but highly recommended for better taste and texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
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In a medium mixing bowl, combine:
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1 can cream of chicken soup
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½ cup milk
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½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
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Stir until smooth and well blended.
Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
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Place the seared chicken fillets at the bottom of your slow cooker.
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Pour the cheese-soup mixture evenly over the chicken. Make sure the fillets are fully covered.
Step 4: Add the Broccoli and Toppings
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Scatter 2 cups of broccoli florets over the chicken and sauce.
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Top with the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese.
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Sprinkle ½ cup breadcrumbs over the top to create a lightly crispy topping as it cooks.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
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Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
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Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2.5–3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the broccoli is tender.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
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Once done, gently stir the casserole to mix everything together slightly.
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Serve hot with rice, pasta, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Recipe Variations & Tips
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Lighten It Up: Use low-fat cream of chicken soup and reduced-fat cheddar.
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Add Veggies: Include sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots for more color and nutrition.
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Add Heat: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce adds a spicy twist.
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Make It Gluten-Free: Swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free crumbs, or leave them out entirely.
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No Searing? If you’re short on time, you can skip the searing step—but the flavor will be milder.
Storage & Reheating
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Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
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Reheat: Microwave individual servings for 1–2 minutes, or reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
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Set it and forget it – perfect for busy schedules
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Kid-friendly and packed with protein
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Creamy, cheesy, and filling
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Customizable with your favorite veggies or spices
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One pot, minimal cleanup