Copycat Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

Why Make This Recipe

Copycat Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken brings the taste of a beloved restaurant dish right into your home. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It combines tender chicken, creamy cheddar cheese, and fresh broccoli, all topped with crunchy Ritz crackers. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, and it’s a sure way to please everyone at the table.

How to Make Copycat Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

Ingredients

4-6 boneless skinless chicken breasts about 1 inch thick
1 (14.5 ounce) can cheddar cheese soup
1 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
1 sleeve Ritz crackers (roughly crushed)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and spray a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray.
In a small bowl, add the cheddar cheese soup, milk, paprika, salt, black pepper, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Whisk until creamy.
Place the chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish and pour half of the cheese sauce on top.
Scatter the broccoli florets on top, along with the crushed Ritz crackers.
Pour the remaining cheese sauce over everything and add the remaining shredded cheese.
Bake for 35-45 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees.
Once done, remove from the oven, add salt and pepper to taste, and serve!

How to Serve Copycat Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

Serve this delicious dish hot right from the oven. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread to complete your meal. It makes a great dinner option for family or friends, and you can also enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day.

How to Store Copycat Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will last for 3-4 days. You can also freeze the dish for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply bake it in the oven until warm through.

Tips to Make Copycat Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

If you want more flavor, consider seasoning the chicken with garlic powder or onion powder before adding the sauce.
For a healthier version, you can use low-fat cheddar cheese and a light version of the soup.
Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for more color and nutrition.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by using different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder taste. Swap out the broccoli for other vegetables like cauliflower or spinach if you prefer.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to increase the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.

Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes! You can replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and ensure the soup is vegetarian-friendly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you are ready to serve.