Slow Cooker Cheesy Broccoli Bacon Chicken
Description
Slow Cooker Cheesy Broccoli Bacon Chicken is the ultimate comfort food casserole-style meal. Chicken breasts are slow-cooked until tender, then mixed with creamy cheese sauce, crispy bacon, and broccoli for a hearty dish that pairs perfectly with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or even crusty bread. It’s rich, filling, and incredibly simple to prepare with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or extra bacon bits
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Add Chicken
Place chicken breasts into the slow cooker. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Pour the cheese mixture over the chicken. Cover and cook:
- LOW for 6–7 hours
or - HIGH for 3–4 hours
until chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Step 5: Add Broccoli
About 30 minutes before serving, add broccoli florets to the slow cooker and stir gently.
Step 6: Shred Chicken
Remove chicken, shred it using two forks, then return it to the slow cooker.
Step 7: Add Bacon & Cheese
Stir in crumbled bacon and remaining cheddar cheese. Cover for 5–10 minutes until cheese melts.
Step 8: Serve
Serve hot over rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or by itself.
Notes
- Fresh broccoli gives the best texture, but frozen broccoli also works.
- Thick-cut bacon adds extra smoky flavor.
- For a thinner sauce, add a little extra chicken broth or milk.
- Rotisserie chicken can be used for a faster version.
Tips
- Sear the chicken before slow cooking for deeper flavor.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for slight heat.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for richer cheesy flavor.
- Avoid overcooking broccoli to keep it bright and slightly firm.
- Stir gently after adding broccoli so it doesn’t become mushy.
Servings
- Serves: 6 people
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
Benefits
High Protein
Chicken provides plenty of protein to help keep you full and support muscle health.
Rich in Calcium
Cheddar cheese contains calcium that supports strong bones and teeth.
Contains Vegetables
Broccoli adds fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.
Comforting & Filling
This meal is hearty and satisfying, making it perfect for colder days or family dinners.
Easy Meal Prep
Leftovers store well and can be reheated for quick lunches or dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Q&A
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work very well and stay extra juicy.
Can I make this recipe low-carb?
Yes. Serve it alone or with cauliflower rice instead of pasta or regular rice.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely. Add it during the final 20–30 minutes of cooking.
What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is ideal, but Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or mozzarella also taste great.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes. You can assemble everything the night before and refrigerate until ready to cook.
What side dishes go well with this?
Rice, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad pair perfectly.