This Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, savory cheddar cheese soup, and crunchy Ritz crackers for a comforting, homestyle meal. Perfect for a family dinner or an easy weeknight treat, this recipe brings the rich flavors of a Cracker Barrel classic to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, tender and juicy.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can Campbell’s Cheddar Cheese Soup: Adds creamy, cheesy richness.
- 1 cup milk: Thins the soup mixture for perfect consistency.
- 1 1/2 cups Ritz crackers (about one sleeve), crushed: Provides a buttery, crunchy topping.
- 4 tablespoons melted butter: Coats the crackers for added flavor and crispness.
- 8 oz frozen broccoli, thawed: Adds a healthy, vibrant component to the dish.
- 4 oz shredded cheddar cheese: For a melty, cheesy finish.
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the chicken.
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the chicken breasts in a single layer to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
2. Prepare the Soup Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine:
- 1 (10.5 oz) can of cheddar cheese soup
- 1 cup of milk
Whisk the mixture until smooth and set it aside. This creamy base will coat the chicken and create the dish’s signature flavor.
3. Assemble the Dish
- Place the 4 chicken breasts in the greased baking dish in a single layer.
- Sprinkle the chicken with 1/2 teaspoon of seasoned salt to enhance the flavor.
- Pour about ¾ of the soup mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Arrange the thawed broccoli florets evenly over the chicken breasts.
4. Create the Topping
In a small bowl, combine:
- 1 1/2 cups of crushed Ritz crackers
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
Stir until the cracker crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle the buttered cracker crumbs over the broccoli layer in the baking dish.
5. Bake the Chicken
- Drizzle the remaining ¼ of the soup mixture over the cracker topping for added creaminess.
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Tip: Check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part of a chicken breast—it should be white, juicy, and uniform in color.
6. Add the Final Touch
Remove the dish from the oven and immediately sprinkle the top with 4 oz of shredded cheddar cheese. Let the dish rest for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld together.
Serving Suggestions
This Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes make a perfect companion to the cheesy chicken.
- Steamed Vegetables: Carrots, green beans, or cauliflower add balance to the meal.
- Buttered Noodles: A simple, kid-friendly option that soaks up the extra sauce.
- Dinner Rolls: Perfect for scooping up the cheesy, creamy sauce.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Broccoli: If you prefer fresh broccoli, steam it lightly before adding it to the dish to ensure it cooks thoroughly.
- Ritz Cracker Substitution: For a different flavor, use panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes instead of Ritz crackers.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the dish the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh when ready to serve, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the soup mixture for some heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with extra broccoli or cauliflower and use a vegetable soup base.
- Different Cheese: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a twist.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
- Freezing: Assemble the dish without the cracker topping, freeze for up to 3 months, and add the topping fresh before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen?
Yes! Fresh chicken works perfectly in this recipe without altering the cooking time.
2. Can I make this dish without broccoli?
Absolutely. If broccoli isn’t your favorite, leave it out or substitute with cauliflower or another vegetable.
3. Can I use a different soup?
Cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup can be used in place of cheddar cheese soup, though it will change the flavor slightly.
4. What’s the best way to crush Ritz crackers?
Place the crackers in a resealable plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin for even crumbs.
Conclusion
Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners. With its tender chicken, creamy sauce, and crispy topping, this recipe delivers all the flavors of a homestyle classic in one dish. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a warm, delicious meal everyone will love!
