A low-carb, high-protein crockpot meal that’s ready in minutes!
This 4-ingredient crockpot garlic butter chicken & broccoli is a game-changer for busy weeknights. With just chicken thighs, broccoli, garlic, and butter, you get a rich, savory dish that’s healthy, easy, and packed with protein. Let the slow cooker do the work while you relax—perfect for meal prep or family dinners!
Whether you’re a crockpot novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe is simple enough for any skill level. The garlic butter infuses the chicken and broccoli with bold flavor, while the slow cooking ensures tender, juicy results. Plus, it’s naturally low-carb and keto-friendly!
This dish pairs beautifully with quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. It’s also a great make-ahead recipe for meal prep, as the flavors deepen over time. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try!
Hungry for more? This recipe is part of our collection of easy crockpot meals designed to simplify your weeknight dinners.
Why This Recipe Works
Easy & Quick
Just 4 ingredients and 10 minutes of prep make this recipe ideal for busy days. The crockpot handles everything else!
Healthy & Nutritious
Packed with protein from chicken and broccoli, this dish is low-carb, gluten-free, and rich in vitamins.
Flavor-Packed
The garlic butter sauce creates a rich, savory flavor that coats every bite of chicken and broccoli.
Family-Friendly
Kids and adults alike will love this tender, flavorful dish. Serve it with rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
4-Ingredient Crockpot Garlic Butter Chicken & Broccoli
A quick, healthy, and flavorful slow-cooker meal!
🛒 Ingredients
- - 3 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- - 4 cups broccoli florets
- - 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- - 4 cloves garlic, minced
👨🍳 Instructions
Prepare Ingredients: Dice garlic and cut broccoli into florets. Pat chicken dry and season with salt and pepper.
💡 Use a food processor for faster garlic mincing.
Melt Butter: Place chicken in crockpot. Add butter and garlic, then stir to coat the chicken.
💡 Use unsalted butter to control sodium.
Add Broccoli: Layer broccoli florets over the chicken in the crockpot.
💡 Add broccoli in the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking.
Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours.
💡 Check for doneness by ensuring chicken reaches 165°F.
Serve: Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley before serving.
💡 Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs
Boneless, skinless thighs yield the juiciest results. You can substitute chicken breasts, but they may dry out more easily.
Substitutions: Chicken breast, turkey thighs
Broccoli
Use fresh or frozen broccoli. Add it in the last 30 minutes to avoid overcooking. Cauliflower is a great low-carb alternative.
Substitutions: Cauliflower, green beans
Butter
Unsalted butter is ideal for controlling sodium. You can use olive oil or ghee for a different flavor profile.
Substitutions: Olive oil, ghee
Garlic
Fresh garlic is best for bold flavor. You can use garlic powder (1 tsp = 1 clove fresh), but the flavor will be milder.
Substitutions: Garlic powder, jarred minced garlic
Pro Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken
Flavor Boost
Add a teaspoon of lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice to brighten the garlic butter sauce.
Cooking Time
For tender chicken, cook on LOW for 4-5 hours. Cooking on HIGH for too long can dry out the meat.
Make-Ahead Tip
Prepare the chicken and garlic mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.
Serving Suggestion
Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra richness.
Variations & Customizations
Keto-Friendly
Add heavy cream or shredded Parmesan to the crockpot for a richer keto-friendly version.
Spicy Version
Mix in 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Asian-Inspired
Add 2 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tbsp honey for an Asian-inspired twist.
Vegetarian Option
Replace chicken with extra broccoli and add tofu for a vegetarian protein source.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Quinoa or Brown Rice: Balance the rich garlic butter with a light grain.
- Roasted Carrots: Add sweetness and color to the plate.
- Garlic Bread: Soak up the delicious sauce with crusty bread.
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager beer.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the chicken and garlic mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Store in the fridge until ready to cook.
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezer Storage
Freeze cooked chicken and broccoli for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.
Troubleshooting & FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes, but add it in the last 20 minutes to prevent sogginess. Thaw frozen broccoli first for better texture.
Q: How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
A: Cook on LOW for 4-5 hours. Avoid overcooking, and use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Yes! Try carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. Add them in the last 30-45 minutes of cooking.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce if adding it. Check all added ingredients for gluten content.
Final Thoughts
This 4-ingredient crockpot garlic butter chicken & broccoli is a weeknight savior. With minimal effort, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal that’s healthy, flavorful, and perfect for families. The garlic butter sauce is the star of the show, coating every bite of tender chicken and broccoli in rich, savory goodness.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a casual dinner, this recipe is versatile and satisfying. Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite sides for a complete, balanced meal. Happy cooking!
