Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

If you’re a fan of creamy, cheesy comfort food, then Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is the recipe you’ve been waiting for! This indulgent dish features tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich broccoli and cheddar cheese sauce, making it the perfect choice for a hearty weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Inspired by the popular Cracker Barrel restaurant dish, this homemade version is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients for Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

To make Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (steamed)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions to Make Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Sauce

In the same skillet, add the heavy cream, chicken broth, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.

Step 3: Add the Steamed Broccoli

Once the sauce is creamy and cheesy, add the steamed broccoli florets. Stir to combine, ensuring that the broccoli is evenly coated in the cheesy sauce.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Broccoli Cheddar Sauce

Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them in the broccoli and cheddar sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken, allowing it to absorb the flavors. Let it simmer for a few minutes to ensure everything is heated through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the chicken is fully coated in the creamy broccoli cheddar sauce, serve the dish hot. This recipe pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a side salad for a well-rounded meal.

Why You’ll Love Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

1. Comforting and Hearty: This recipe is the epitome of comfort food. The rich, creamy sauce combined with the tender chicken and nutritious broccoli is both filling and satisfying.

2. Easy to Make: Despite its decadent taste, this dish is incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have a homemade version of Cracker Barrel’s beloved dish on your table in no time.

3. Customizable: You can easily adjust this recipe to fit your preferences. Add more cheese for extra richness or throw in a handful of crispy bacon for added flavor. You can also swap the broccoli for other vegetables like spinach or cauliflower.

4. Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults. The creamy sauce and cheesy flavor are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Tips for the Best Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

• Cook the chicken thoroughly: Ensure the chicken is cooked to the correct internal temperature (165°F) to avoid any food safety issues.
• Use fresh broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives the dish a better texture and flavor compared to frozen broccoli. However, if you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli works just fine!
• Adjust the sauce thickness: If the sauce is too thick, simply add a little more chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is a simple yet delicious dish that will impress your family and guests. With creamy cheese, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli, this dish offers the perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re recreating a classic restaurant favorite at home or just looking for a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.

Serving and Storage Tips for Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

Serving Tips:

1. Pair with Sides:
   Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Try serving it with mashed potatoes, rice, or baked potatoes for a hearty meal. It also complements a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables, adding balance to the richness of the dish.
2. Garnish for Extra Flavor:
   Add a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar cheese on top before serving for an even cheesier dish. A dash of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a nice touch of heat, or you can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for color and freshness.
3. Serving Style:
   For a more elegant presentation, you can slice the chicken breasts into thinner pieces and arrange them on a plate with the broccoli cheddar sauce spooned over the top. Serve it with a side of bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration:
   Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing it to prevent condensation inside the container.
2. Freezing:
   While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, it can be frozen for longer storage. To freeze, place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
3. Reheating:
   To reheat, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
4. Avoid Overheating:
   When reheating, avoid cooking the dish at high heat for too long, as it may cause the chicken to become dry and the sauce to separate. Reheat slowly and gently for the best results.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken on multiple occasions without sacrificing flavor or texture!

1. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in place of fresh broccoli. However, fresh broccoli will give the dish a better texture and flavor. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the sauce to avoid excess moisture.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. You can cook the chicken and prepare the broccoli cheddar sauce, then store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine them and reheat the dish on the stovetop or in the oven.

3. How can I make Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken spicier?
To add some heat to the dish, you can sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the broccoli cheddar sauce. You could also mix in some diced jalapeños or sprinkle a bit of cayenne pepper on top before serving for an extra kick.

4. Can I substitute the chicken for another protein?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with other proteins like turkey breasts or even pork chops. For a vegetarian option, consider using plant-based chicken or even a hearty meat substitute like tempeh. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly for different proteins.

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