Print

Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
Print Recipe

Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is a comforting, creamy, and cheesy dish featuring tender chicken breasts, fresh broccoli florets, and a rich cheddar sauce. Perfect for a family meal or a cozy dinner, this recipe balances rich flavors with wholesome vegetables and is easy to prepare for any skill level.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 4 fresh boneless chicken breasts

Vegetables

  • 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or thawed if frozen
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy & Sauce

  • 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Thickening & Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and paprika if using. Heat butter or oil in a pan over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove from pan and set aside to rest.
  2. Cook the Broccoli: In the same pan, steam or sauté the broccoli florets just until bright green and tender but still crisp, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  3. Make the Cheddar Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a smooth roux and cook for 1-2 minutes without browning. Slowly add heavy cream or half-and-half while whisking constantly. Cook until sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Reduce heat to low and stir in grated cheddar cheese, minced garlic, and chopped onions until the sauce is smooth and bubbly.
  4. Combine and Simmer: Return the chicken breasts to the pan, pour the cheddar sauce over them, and top with the cooked broccoli. Cover and simmer gently for 3-5 minutes to meld flavors and warm everything through.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Once heated through and sauce is luscious, plate the dish. Optionally garnish with chopped parsley or chives for added freshness and color. Serve with your choice of sides.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for the best melting and flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the broccoli; keep it crisp-tender to maintain texture and color.
  • Season gradually, tasting as you go to avoid over-salting due to cheddar’s natural saltiness.
  • Let chicken rest after cooking to lock in juices and ensure tenderness.
  • Whisk butter and flour thoroughly to make a smooth roux and avoid lumps in the sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli cheddar chicken, creamy chicken recipe, Cracker Barrel copycat, comfort food, cheesy chicken dinner, southern style chicken

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/cracker-barrel-broccoli-cheddar-chicken/