Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

Discover a mouthwatering chicken recipe that combines the classic flavors of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese. This comforting dish brings the warmth of home-style cooking right to your dinner table, creating a meal that's both satisfying and delicious.

Imagine a creamy chicken casserole that perfectly balances rich cheddar cheese with juicy chicken and vibrant broccoli. Every bite promises a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will have your family asking for seconds.

Whether you're planning a family dinner or looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe, this Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is sure to become a new favorite in your meal rotation.

Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken: A Comfort Food Masterpiece

This recipe isn't just another chicken dish – it's a culinary experience that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal. The combination of golden-seared chicken, crisp broccoli, and a creamy cheddar sauce creates a symphony of flavors that's both comforting and exciting.

Get ready to elevate your home cooking with this irresistible recipe that brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen.

Serving Suggestions:

Your Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken pairs perfectly with:

• Fluffy white rice
• Roasted garlic mashed potatoes
• Crusty bread for soaking up the creamy sauce
• Fresh green salad
• Steamed vegetables

Pro Tips for the Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Chicken:

Chicken Cooking Technique: Sear the chicken to lock in moisture and create a beautiful golden exterior. This step adds depth of flavor and ensures juicy meat.

Broccoli Brilliance: Briefly sauté the broccoli to maintain its vibrant green color and crisp texture. Avoid overcooking to preserve nutrients and prevent mushiness.

Cheese Mastery: Use freshly shredded cheddar for the best melting quality and richest flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.

Cracker Topping Trick: Crush the Ritz crackers just before adding to maintain their crisp texture and prevent sogginess.

Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the components in advance and assemble just before baking for a stress-free meal preparation.

Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Recipe Details:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 35 minutes
• Total time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Equipment: Skillet, baking dish, mixing bowls, measuring cups

This dish brings together the comfort of home-style cooking with a touch of gourmet flair. The tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and creamy cheddar sauce create a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Base:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup sour cream

For the Crispy Topping:

• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the chicken by seasoning the breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Ensure even coverage for maximum flavor.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully sear the chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. The goal is to create a beautiful golden crust while keeping the inside juicy.
4. Transfer the seared chicken to the prepared baking dish. In the same skillet, quickly sauté the broccoli florets for 3-5 minutes. They should remain bright green and slightly crisp.
5. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, and sour cream until smooth. This creates a rich, creamy base for the dish.
6. Arrange the sautéed broccoli around the chicken in the baking dish. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the chicken and broccoli.
7. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top, ensuring complete coverage.
8. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese to create a delightful crispy topping.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. The chicken should be completely cooked through, and the topping should be golden and crispy.

Ready to Enjoy!

Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes after removing from the oven. This allows the sauce to set and makes serving easier. Each plate should feature a perfectly cooked chicken breast topped with melted cheese and crispy crackers.

Storage Solutions:

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container
• Consume within 3-4 days
• Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy topping
• For best results, store the cracker topping separately and add when reheating
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months (without the cracker topping)

Whether you're cooking for family or hosting a casual dinner, this Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken promises to be a crowd-pleaser that combines comfort, flavor, and pure culinary joy.

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