Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

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Craving Comfort? Recreate Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken at Home

There’s something undeniably comforting about Cracker Barrel. From the peg games to the hearty meals, it’s a place that evokes a sense of nostalgia and down-home goodness. One dish that consistently tops the favorites list is their Broccoli Cheddar Chicken. The tender chicken breasts, creamy broccoli cheddar sauce, and satisfying crunch make it a true crowd-pleaser. While a trip to Cracker Barrel is always a treat, what if you could recreate this beloved dish in your own kitchen? Good news – you absolutely can! This article provides a simple, straightforward recipe to bring the comforting flavors of Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken to your dinner table, any night of the week. Get ready for a delicious and easy-to-make meal that the whole family will love.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe aims to capture the essence of the Cracker Barrel version while simplifying the process for the home cook. It focuses on using readily available ingredients and easy-to-follow steps. The key to success lies in creating a rich and creamy cheddar sauce, ensuring the broccoli is cooked to the perfect tenderness, and achieving a golden-brown crust on the chicken. We’ll walk you through each step, providing tips and tricks along the way to guarantee a delicious outcome.

Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Recipe

Here’s a simplified recipe to create your own version of Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken:

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups milk
1 cup chicken broth
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 (10 ounce) package frozen broccoli florets, thawed
½ cup bread crumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth until smooth.
Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Add thawed broccoli florets to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
Pour broccoli cheddar sauce into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Place seared chicken breasts on top of the sauce.
In a small bowl, combine bread crumbs and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle over the chicken breasts.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and bread crumbs are golden brown.
Let cool slightly before serving.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

While the recipe is straightforward, here are some tips to ensure your Broccoli Cheddar Chicken turns out perfectly every time:

Pound the Chicken: For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½ inch). This ensures they cook at the same rate and prevent any dry spots. You can use a meat mallet or even a rolling pin.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken is dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Cheese Matters: Use a good quality cheddar cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. Shred your own cheese for the best results.
Broccoli Texture: Avoid overcooking the broccoli. Thaw it completely and ensure it’s just tender-crisp after baking. Overcooked broccoli will become mushy.
Breadcrumb Crunch: For extra crunch, use panko bread crumbs instead of regular bread crumbs. You can also add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture.
Customize the Sauce: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat. You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or mushrooms, to the sauce.
Make it Ahead: Assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This is a great option for busy weeknights. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the dish is cold.

Serving Suggestions

Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
Rice: Steamed rice or rice pilaf are excellent choices for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Green Beans: A simple side dish that adds a touch of freshness.
Salad: A crisp green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken and sauce.
Cornbread: A Southern staple that complements the comforting flavors of the dish.

Variations

This recipe is easily adaptable to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Here are a few variations to try:

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour to thicken the sauce and gluten-free bread crumbs for the topping.
Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives.
Lower-Carb: Skip the breadcrumb topping or use almond flour for a lower-carb option. You can also serve the chicken and sauce over cauliflower rice.
Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or Pepper Jack.

Practical Examples and Troubleshooting

Let’s address some common questions and potential issues you might encounter while making this recipe:

Question: My cheese sauce is grainy. What did I do wrong?Answer: This usually happens when the cheese is overheated. Make sure to reduce the heat to low after adding the cheese and stir constantly until melted and smooth. Avoid boiling the sauce after adding the cheese.
Question: My breadcrumb topping isn’t getting crispy. What can I do?Answer: Make sure the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with melted butter. You can also broil the dish for the last few minutes of baking time to crisp up the topping, but watch it carefully to prevent burning.
Question: Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?Answer: Yes, you can use fresh broccoli. Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender-crisp before adding them to the cheese sauce. You’ll need about 1 pound of fresh broccoli.
Example: I added a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the cheese sauce for a tangier flavor. It was a delicious addition!
Example: I used leftover rotisserie chicken to make this dish. It saved time and was a great way to use up leftovers.

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Conclusion

Recreating Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken at home is easier than you might think! With this simple recipe and helpful tips, you can enjoy a comforting and delicious meal any time you crave it. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the comforting flavors of Cracker Barrel in your own kitchen. Happy cooking!

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