Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken: 3 Easy Steps

If you’re looking for a meal that practically cooks itself and tastes like a warm hug in a bowl, this Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is about to become your new weeknight favorite. Between juggling work, errands, and maybe a never-ending pile of laundry (we’ve all been there), who has time for complicated dinners? This recipe is creamy, cheesy, and comfort-food-level delicious—without any of the fuss.

It’s one of those “dump, set, and forget” dishes that magically transforms simple ingredients into something crave-worthy by dinner time. Imagine juicy chicken simmering all day in a creamy, cheesy sauce—paired with tender broccoli that’s just the right amount of crisp. Yep, it’s that good.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

There are a million reasons to fall for this recipe, but here are a few standouts:

  • Effortless magic – Minimal prep, no stovetop babysitting, and maximum flavor payoff.
  • Family-approved – Even picky eaters can’t resist creamy cheese and tender chicken.
  • Comfort with a healthy twist – Broccoli sneaks in veggies while the creamy sauce keeps everyone happy.
  • Perfect for meal prep – It reheats beautifully, making leftovers something to look forward to.

This Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is the kind of meal that makes a Monday feel like a Sunday.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather your kitchen staples and a few fresh touches to create this creamy dream:

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The star of the show, tender and juicy.
  • Garlic powder & onion powder – Aromatic and flavorful, no chopping needed.
  • Salt & black pepper – The essentials for balanced seasoning.
  • Low-sodium chicken broth – The savory foundation of your sauce.
  • Heavy cream – Because cozy dinners deserve a little indulgence.
  • Olive oil – Keeps the chicken moist and adds a subtle richness.
  • Dijon mustard – The secret ingredient that brightens the creamy sauce.
  • Fresh broccoli florets – Adds color, crunch, and nutrition.
  • Shredded sharp cheddar cheese – The magic that makes everything melty and delicious.
  • Grated Parmesan cheese – For that extra nutty, cheesy depth.

Optional but highly encouraged: sprinkle in some crispy bacon bits or swap broccoli for cauliflower for a fun twist.

How to Make Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

Making this cozy dinner is easier than folding a fitted sheet (and way more rewarding).

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Lay your chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot.
Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper evenly over the top.
This step builds the base flavor—don’t skip it!

Step 2: Create the Creamy Base

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, drizzle with olive oil, and whisk in Dijon mustard.
These ingredients mingle together to form that rich, velvety sauce you’ll dream about later.

Step 3: Let the Crockpot Work Its Magic

Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Peek in around the 3-hour mark if cooking on high—your chicken should be tender and easy to shred.

Step 4: Add the Broccoli

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the broccoli florets.
They’ll cook perfectly—tender yet vibrant—so no sad, mushy broccoli here!

Step 5: Shred and Cheese It Up

When the chicken is done, shred it right in the crockpot using two forks.
Then stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan until everything melts into one creamy, dreamy sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Scoop generous portions into bowls, top with extra cheese (because why not?), and serve with crusty bread or over rice.
Prepare yourself for silence at the dinner table—the universal sign of approval.

Mounia’s Tips for Perfect Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

  • Too thick? Add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up.
  • Too thin? Stir in a little extra cheese or let it cook uncovered for 10–15 minutes.
  • Want more flavor? A pinch of smoked paprika or a handful of cooked bacon bits adds a lovely smoky depth.
  • Meal prep hack: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop.

True story: This recipe once saved my week when everything felt like a blur. Between school drop-offs, work deadlines, and an empty fridge, this crockpot meal made me feel like I still had my life together—at least at dinnertime!

Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken in a bowl with juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and melted cheddar in a rich, creamy sauce.
Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken loaded with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and melty cheddar in a velvety slow cooker sauce.

FAQs About Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! Just thaw it slightly first and add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half for a lighter version, though it won’t be quite as rich.

What’s the best way to serve this dish?

It’s amazing over rice, egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or even with a warm baguette for dipping.

Can I make this with chicken thighs instead?

Absolutely! Thighs work wonderfully—they stay juicy and flavorful in the crockpot.

Bringing It All Together

At the end of a long day, Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is the kind of meal that reminds you homemade comfort doesn’t need to be complicated. It’s rich, cozy, and bursting with cheesy goodness—all from your trusty slow cooker.

So go ahead—set it, forget it, and let the crockpot do the work while you conquer your day. Dinner will be waiting, creamy and perfect, just when you need it most.

More Cozy Crockpot Comforts You’ll Love

If this Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken warmed your heart (and your dinner table), I’ve got a few more slow-cooked favorites that will fit right into your weekly rotation. Each of these comforting dishes brings that same “set it and forget it” magic—with flavors that your family will beg for again and again:

Each of these recipes carries that same cozy, low-effort charm that makes slow cooking so irresistible. So next time you’re craving comfort with a side of convenience, pick one and let your slow cooker do all the work!

Print
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Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken in a bowl with juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and melted cheddar in a rich, creamy sauce.

Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken


  • Author: Mounia
  • Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This Crockpot Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is the ultimate comfort food — rich, cheesy, and incredibly easy to make. Juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and a velvety cheddar sauce come together in your slow cooker for a cozy, satisfying meal the whole family will love.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets

  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Optional: cooked bacon bits or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra flavor


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
    Place chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

  2. Add the Creamy Base:
    Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Drizzle olive oil on top, then stir in Dijon mustard.

  3. Slow Cook:
    Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easy to shred.

  4. Add the Broccoli:
    About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the broccoli florets. Cook until tender but still bright green.

  5. Shred and Add Cheese:
    Shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

  6. Serve and Enjoy:
    Spoon into bowls, top with extra cheese if desired, and serve with crusty bread, rice, or noodles for a complete meal.

Notes

For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Frozen broccoli can be used — add during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Add cooked bacon bits or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 410 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 520 mg
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 34 g
  • Cholesterol: 130 mg