Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Recipe
If you’re craving a cozy, homestyle dinner that feels like it came straight out of a Cracker Barrel kitchen, this Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole is the perfect choice. It combines tender chicken breasts, creamy sauce, fresh broccoli, gooey cheddar cheese, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping that bakes up golden and bubbly.
This recipe is family-friendly, easy to assemble, and perfect for weeknight dinners or Sunday meals. Plus, it only requires a handful of simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed (about 25 crackers)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or thawed frozen broccoli)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar works best)
- 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon paprika (regular or smoked)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for extra crunch)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the oven and chicken
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in the bottom of the dish.
2. Make the creamy sauce
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, and paprika until smooth.
- This will be the base sauce that keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
3. Add the broccoli
- Scatter the broccoli florets around and on top of the chicken.
- If using frozen broccoli, make sure it’s thawed and drained to avoid excess liquid.
4. Assemble the topping
- Pour the soup mixture evenly over the chicken and broccoli.
- Mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter (optional) and sprinkle over the top.
- Finish by adding shredded cheddar cheese as the final layer.
5. Bake
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temp should reach 165°F / 74°C) and the topping is golden brown.
6. Serve and enjoy
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Plate each chicken breast with a generous scoop of broccoli and cheesy topping.
Tips for the Best Result
- Cheese variations: Mix mozzarella with cheddar for a gooier topping.
- Crispier topping: Add a tablespoon of melted butter to the cracker crumbs before baking.
- Make it creamier: Stir in ¼ cup sour cream or heavy cream with the soup mixture.
- One-dish meal: Serve with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce.
Nutrition (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 34g
- Carbs: 22g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare.
- Uses everyday ingredients.
- Family-friendly comfort food.
- Perfect balance of protein, veggies, and cheesy goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes! Just thaw it first and pat dry to avoid extra water in the casserole.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
You can assemble the casserole a few hours in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
3. What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or a side salad.
4. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes! Colby, Monterey Jack, or even Pepper Jack for a little spice all work great.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.