Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Recipe

Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheese Chicken is the perfect comfort food that brings together a creamy cheese sauce with tender chicken and fresh broccoli.

Remember to use sharp cheddar for a full-bodied flavor, as it makes a big difference in the taste experience.

The buttery cracker topping gives it that signature crunch, adding such an appealing texture contrast to the smooth sauce.

How to Make Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 Chicken Breasts
• 1 can Cheddar Cheese Soup (10.5 oz.)
• 1 cup Milk
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 2 cups Broccoli Florets
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
• 1 cup Cracker Crumbs
• 2 tbsp Butter (melted)
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F.

Pat each chicken breast dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.

Step 2:

In a large casserole dish, arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer.

Mix the cheddar cheese soup, milk, and paprika together in a bowl.

Step 3:

Pour the mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the dish.

Scatter the broccoli florets over the chicken.

Step 4:

Spread the shredded cheddar cheese over the broccoli.

Stir the cracker crumbs and melted butter together.

Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over everything in the casserole dish.

Step 5:

Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the top is golden.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Cheese Selection:

Use sharp cheddar cheese for a rich flavor that stands out in this dish.

Milder cheese may not give the same depth of taste, so I recommend going bold!

Broccoli Tips:

To keep the broccoli vibrant, blanch it briefly before adding to the dish.

This step ensures it remains crisp-tender even after baking.

Cracker Choice:

For the crumb topping, buttery crackers work best.

If you’re looking for a healthier option, whole grain crackers can also do the job!

Extra Flavor:

Add a dash of garlic powder to the cheese sauce mix for an extra punch.

It complements the cheddar cheese nicely and boosts the savory profile of the dish.

Resting Time:

Allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes after baking before serving.

This step helps the sauce thicken up, making it easier to serve!

What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheese Chicken

Mashed Potatoes

When serving Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheese Chicken, you can’t go wrong with a classic side like mashed potatoes.

Creamy and smooth mashed potatoes pair perfectly with the cheesy, savory flavors of the chicken dish.

Simply add a hint of garlic or a sprinkle of chives to elevate the potatoes just a bit.

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread can be a great sidekick for your Broccoli Cheese Chicken dinner.

The crunchy texture and garlicky flavor of the bread provide a nice contrast to the creamy chicken dish.

A slice or two adds a satisfying crunch to your meal.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you want something a bit unique, try serving roasted Brussels sprouts with the chicken.

Their earthy flavor and slight sweetness complement the rich, cheesy chicken casserole wonderfully.

Throw in some balsamic glaze for a touch of tanginess!

Quinoa Salad

Consider a trim, vibrant quinoa salad to bring a hint of freshness to your plate. Oh, wait, I meant to say couscous salad! Let’s transform that into a delicious experience.

Shredded carrots mixed with some dried cranberries in the salad can offer a nice contrast of textures and flavors.

Apple Walnut Salad

For a fresh and crunchy side, consider an apple walnut salad.

The sweetness of the apples and the nutty flavor of the walnuts provide a wonderful balance to the cheesy chicken dish.

Adding a simple vinaigrette dressing can lend a nice zing.

Variations and Substitutions

Cheese Options

You can easily switch up the cheese in your broccoli cheddar chicken to match your taste.

Try using Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.

If you’re feeling adventurous, add a bit of blue cheese for a bold twist!

Protein Swaps

Feel free to replace chicken with turkey or even sliced tofu for a vegetarian version.

Both options work wonderfully with the cheesy sauce and broccoli.

Keep cooking times in mind to avoid overcooking the protein.

Topping Alternatives

Instead of panko breadcrumbs, crushed pretzels or potato chips make fun, crunchy substitutes.

These alternatives change up the texture and add a different flavor to the dish.

Explore various options to see what your family loves most!

How to Store Leftover Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheese Chicken

When you’ve got leftover Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheese Chicken, there’s a right way to keep it fresh.

First, you’ll want to let the dish cool down to room temperature before you try to store it.

Once cooled, you should transfer it into an airtight container to maintain its cheesy goodness.

Refrigeration

It’s best to pop those leftovers in the refrigerator if you plan to enjoy them within a few days.

Stored properly in an airtight container, it can last up to three days safely in the fridge!

Freezing

If you’re not planning to eat the leftovers soon, freezing is a fantastic option.

Make sure to wrap it tightly or place it in a freezer-safe, airtight container.

This way, you can keep it for up to three months without losing its flavor.

Thawing

When you’re ready to enjoy your Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheese Chicken again, just move it from the freezer to the refrigerator.

Thawing it before serving helps retain its taste and avoid any mushiness that might occur otherwise!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Chicken

Nobody wants dry chicken!

Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F using a meat thermometer.

This keeps your chicken juicy and flavorful.

Neglecting to Drain Broccoli

Excess moisture? Not a good idea.

Always drain your broccoli well after steaming.

This prevents a watery dish.

Skipping Seasoning Before Cooking

Never forget seasoning!

A pinch of salt and pepper enhances flavors when you add it before cooking.

For an extra kick, add garlic and onion powder.