If there’s one dish that brings instant comfort to the table, it’s this Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken. Cozy, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection, it’s everything you want in a warm, homestyle casserole. Whether you’re craving something simple on a cold evening or just looking for an easy family favorite to add to your weeknight rotation, this recipe hits all the right notes.

I first made this on a chilly evening when I needed something hearty and simple. The fridge was nearly bare, but I had the basics: some chicken breasts, a can of cheddar soup, and a lonely head of broccoli. With a little creativity (and a sleeve of Ritz crackers), this delightful bake came together—and let me tell you, we were hooked after the first bite.

It’s got juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and a blanket of creamy cheddar sauce—all topped with a buttery, golden cracker crust. It tastes like something you’d find in a cozy Southern diner but comes together with pantry staples you likely already have.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy, Creamy, Comforting

There’s just something magical about melted cheese and tender chicken. The cheddar cheese soup adds a silky richness that wraps around the chicken and broccoli like a warm hug. Every bite is loaded with flavor and nostalgia—think Cracker Barrel, but straight from your own oven.

Whether you’re serving picky kids or hungry adults, this one always gets cleaned off the plate.

Simple, Pantry-Friendly Ingredients

No fancy ingredients here—just good old-fashioned staples:

• Cheddar cheese soup

• Milk

• Ritz crackers

• Chicken breasts

• Broccoli

If you keep a decently stocked kitchen, you probably have most of what you need already. And if not? Everything is easy to find at any grocery store, no specialty aisles required.

This is the kind of recipe that feels fancy but is secretly made from the most practical ingredients.

Foolproof for Beginners

Not a kitchen pro? No worries at all. This dish is as easy as mix, layer, and bake. No need to brown the chicken, no complicated sauces, no special tools. Just a baking dish and an oven.

Here’s a rough idea of the effort level:

• 10 minutes to prep

• 35 minutes to bake

• Zero stress involved

Even if this is your first homemade casserole, you’re going to knock it out of the park.

Totally Customizable

Think of this recipe as your base canvas. You can easily make it your own:

• Want more protein? Toss in some cooked bacon or leftover rotisserie chicken.

• Prefer a different cheese? Pepper jack or mozzarella add a fun twist.

• Don’t have fresh broccoli? Frozen works just fine—just thaw and drain.

It’s the kind of recipe you’ll make once, love forever, and adapt a dozen ways over time.

Ingredients

Let’s talk about what makes this cheesy comfort dish come together so effortlessly. One of the best things about Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is how approachable the ingredients are. Nothing fancy, nothing fussy—just simple items you likely already have on hand or can grab quickly at the store.

Full List of Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need, along with a quick note on why each one matters:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The hearty, protein-packed base of the dish. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier cut.

• 1 tsp salt & ½ tsp black pepper – Basic but essential. These seasonings wake up the flavors in both the chicken and the cheesy sauce.

• ½ tsp garlic powder – Adds a gentle warmth and savory kick that balances out the creaminess.

• 2 cups steamed broccoli florets – Bright, tender, and full of nutrients, they bring color and balance to the richness of the dish.

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melty, cheesy goodness that ties everything together. Sharp cheddar gives the most flavor, but mild works too.

• ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers – Buttery and crunchy, these give the top layer a satisfying texture contrast.

• 2 tbsp melted butter – Helps the cracker topping crisp up beautifully and adds that rich, golden finish.

• 1 can (10.75 oz) cheddar cheese soup – This forms the creamy, dreamy base of the sauce that coats everything in cheesy deliciousness.

• ½ cup milk – Thins the soup just enough to make it pourable and perfectly smooth for baking.

Tip: Want to make this extra decadent? Use whole milk or even a splash of half-and-half for an ultra-rich sauce.

How to Make Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

Now let’s get to the fun part—bringing it all together. Whether you’re cooking solo or with the kids helping out, this process is so simple and totally stress-free.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps and you’ll have dinner on the table in under an hour—with very little cleanup!

1. Prep the dish
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish—this will help keep the chicken juicy and prevent sticking.

2. Season the chicken
   Lay your chicken breasts on a plate or cutting board and sprinkle evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Flip and repeat on the other side.

3. Layer in the dish
   Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the greased baking dish in a single layer.

4. Mix the sauce
   In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the cheddar cheese soup and milk until smooth and creamy. This forms the rich, cheesy base of the dish.

5. Assemble
   Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken. Next, sprinkle the steamed broccoli over the top, and then layer on the shredded cheddar cheese.

6. Add the cracker topping
   In another small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Mix until well coated. Sprinkle this buttery crumble evenly across the top.

7. Bake
   Slide the dish into the oven and bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the top is golden and bubbly.

8. Let it rest
   Once baked, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps everything settle and makes it easier to serve.

Pro Tip: If your chicken breasts are thick, consider pounding them slightly or cutting them in half to ensure even cooking.

What to Serve with This Recipe

This dish is satisfying on its own, but if you want to round it out into a full-on Southern-style meal, here are some delicious pairing ideas:

Suggested Pairings

Drinks

• A tall glass of iced tea—sweet or unsweetened, depending on your vibe.

• Homemade lemonade for a bright, citrusy contrast.

• A light Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese and chicken.

Sides

• Mashed potatoes – Creamy and buttery, they complement the cheesy sauce perfectly.

• Green beans – Sautéed or steamed, they add a crisp, fresh element.

• Fresh garden salad – Lightens up the plate and adds crunch.

Desserts

• Peach cobbler – A warm, fruity classic that completes the comfort food experience.

• Banana pudding – Creamy, nostalgic, and Southern-approved.

• Chocolate chip cookies – Because every cozy dinner should end with a little chocolate.

Make it a meal to remember: Add a basket of warm biscuits or cornbread on the side, and you’ve got yourself a dinner that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken recipe is how easily it adapts to different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re cooking for someone gluten-free, keeping things low-carb, or just want to jazz things up, there’s a delicious variation waiting for you.

Gluten-Free Option

Living gluten-free? You can still enjoy every bite of this comforting classic.

• Use gluten-free crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of Ritz.

• Opt for a gluten-free condensed cheese soup (many brands now offer versions).

Just double-check labels and you’re good to go!

Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly

Want to lower the carbs while keeping all that cheesy flavor?

• Swap the crackers for crushed pork rinds or a mix of almond flour and Parmesan.

• Use broccoli generously—it’s naturally low in carbs and full of fiber.

You’ll still get that satisfying crunch and creaminess—without the carb count.

Extra Cheesy

Cheese lovers, this one’s for you.

• Add an extra layer of mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a melty finish.

• Sprinkle Parmesan into the sauce for added depth and a slightly nutty edge.

Trust me—you can never go wrong with more cheese.

Spicy Twist

Like a little heat? Spice things up!

• Stir in red pepper flakes to the sauce.

• Add a dash of hot sauce (like Frank’s or Sriracha) before baking.

• Top with sliced jalapeños if you’re feeling bold.

This subtle kick takes the cozy flavors up a notch.

Add Protein

Need to stretch the meal a little more or use up leftovers?

• Add cooked bacon crumbles, diced ham, or leftover rotisserie chicken.

• Want to bulk it up even more? Mix in a handful of cooked quinoa or rice before baking.

It’s an easy way to make the dish even heartier—and use what you already have.

Storage Instructions

This recipe stores beautifully, which makes it perfect for leftovers, meal prep, or even make-ahead dinners.

Room Temperature

• Don’t leave this dish out for more than 1–2 hours.

• Because it contains chicken and dairy, it’s best to refrigerate promptly.

Refrigeration Tips

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.

• To reheat, use the microwave for a quick fix, or warm it in the oven at 350°F until bubbly.

Pro tip: Add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to bring back the sauce’s creamy texture.

Freezing Instructions

Want to save some for later? No problem.

• Let the dish cool completely, then wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil.

• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

To reheat:

• Thaw overnight in the fridge.

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot throughout (usually 20–25 minutes).

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Here are a few kitchen-tested tips to make this dish even better:

• Use thin chicken breasts or slice them in half for quicker, more even cooking.

• Steam your broccoli first—don’t skip this! Raw broccoli can stay too firm when baked.

• Don’t skip the cracker topping—it adds that perfect buttery crunch.

• Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor that cuts through the creaminess.

• Double the recipe and freeze one pan for busy nights—you’ll thank yourself later!

Related Recipes

If you loved this Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken, you might enjoy these other comforting dinner ideas:

• French Onion Chicken Bake: Rich, savory, and smothered in melty cheese.

• Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti: Creamy, kid-friendly, and crockpot easy.

• Stuffed Doritos Chicken: A fun twist packed with creamy bacon goodness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just thaw it first and drain well so you don’t water down the sauce.

What can I substitute for cheddar cheese soup?

Try a quick homemade version with a béchamel (white sauce) and shredded cheddar, or use cream of chicken soup mixed with extra cheese.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the entire dish, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed.

What if I don’t have Ritz crackers?

No worries. Try:

• Crushed cornflakes

• Panko breadcrumbs

• Saltines or Club crackers

Each offers a slightly different crunch—but they all work!

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Sure can! Chicken thighs are juicier and add extra flavor. Just note—they may take a bit longer to cook through.

Conclusion

There’s something so special about a meal that brings everyone to the table—warm, bubbly, and made with love. This Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is all that and more: simple, satisfying, and endlessly cozy.

Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or a hungry crowd, this recipe is a sure hit every time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or just because you’re craving comfort food.

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