Irresistible Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken: The Ultimate Comfort Food Copycat

Some dishes aren’t just food—they’re pure nostalgia.

The first time I tried Cracker Barrel’s Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is a memory that always sticks with me. One chilly, rainy afternoon during a long family drive, we decided to pull in and take a break at Cracker Barrel.

We piled into the checkerboard-floored dining room after hours on the highway, and the aroma of homey casseroles instantly made us feel welcome.

When that plate of golden, cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole landed on our table, it was love at first forkful. The tender chicken, creamy sauce, perfectly cooked broccoli, and that bubbling cheddar layer—pure Southern comfort!

Every time I make this recipe at home now, I’m brought right back to that laughter-filled meal. It reminds me that the best food is always shared with family.It’s a delicious reminder that the most memorable meals are those enjoyed with family.

Introduction

There’s a reason why Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is so beloved—and why copycat recipes for it are searched for thousands of times each month. With its combination of creamy cheese, savory chicken, and wholesome broccoli, it’s the ultimate comfort food that brings people together, no matter where you call home.

In this definitive guide, you’ll get:

• A spot-on, step-by-step copycat recipe
• Smart ingredient swaps for health and dietary needs
• Expert-tested tips to ensure cheesy, gooey success
• Meal prep, leftovers, and serving suggestions
• Pro troubleshooting advice for the perfect bake every time
• Real reader reviews and answers to your most-asked questions

If you’re a fan of hearty, family-style comfort food, you might also love our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf—a delicious twist on a classic that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Ready to turn your kitchen into the coziest spot on earth? Let’s dive in and discover how to make Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken at home—so good, you’ll wonder if it came straight from the restaurant kitchen.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

What Makes Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Special?

The Nostalgia and Flavor Profile

Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken isn’t just a dish—it’s an experience. For many families, this cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole is all about gathering close, sharing comfort, and recreating the warmth of home. Silky sauce coats every piece of juicy chicken, the broccoli adds a satisfying crunch, and the golden cheddar topping ties it all together in the most irresistible way.

What truly sets this dish apart? It’s the way every forkful blends flavor and texture:

• Cheddar cheese that melts into a golden, gooey topping
• Juicy oven-baked chicken that stays moist, never dry
• Broccoli that’s bright and tender—not mushy
• Buttery, cracker-crisp topping for that signature Cracker Barrel crunch

As one reader shared:

“My kids always beg for second helpings! It tastes just like sitting around the big table at Cracker Barrel—cozy, cheesy, and full of love.” – Sara J., ElodieRecipes reader

It’s easy to see why people long for this Southern-style broccoli cheddar chicken and look for ways to bring that comforting magic into their own kitchens.

Brief History and Restaurant Popularity

Cracker Barrel first gained fame for its home-style comfort food—hearty, nostalgic dishes that felt like they came from grandma’s kitchen. The broccoli cheddar chicken bake quickly became a menu staple, earning rave reviews and turning into a must-order classic, especially on busy weekends.

Across America, families have made this dish a tradition. It inspired countless copycat Cracker Barrel chicken recipes and continues to top “best casserole” lists. Its popularity even led to recipe spin-offs like chicken and broccoli bake recipe and creamy broccoli cheddar chicken.

Ingredients & Smart Substitutions

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Authentic Ingredient List

To make the most crave-worthy Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken at home, you’ll want to gather a handful of simple, familiar ingredients—nothing fancy, just pure comfort. Here’s what you’ll need for the classic version:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, for extra juiciness)
• Fresh broccoli florets (for best texture, but see swaps below)
• Sharp cheddar cheese (the sharper, the better for that signature flavor)
• Cream of chicken soup (store-bought or homemade)
• Sour cream (for extra creaminess)
• Crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz, for that irresistible golden topping)
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder (for perfect seasoning)
• Butter (to make the topping golden and crisp)

Pro Tip: Always shred your own cheese! Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can keep your casserole from getting perfectly creamy and melty.

Healthier, Gluten-Free, and Keto Swaps

• For a lighter version: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and a low-sodium, fat-free cream of chicken soup.
• Gluten-free: Swap the crackers for a gluten-free variety or use gluten-free panko. Double-check your soup for hidden gluten.
• Keto/Low-carb: Use steamed cauliflower in place of crackers, and a low-carb, homemade cheese sauce instead of canned soup.
• Dairy-free: Substitute your favorite dairy-free cheese and use coconut cream or a vegan sour cream alternative. Opt for a dairy-free soup base.

Infographic Suggestion:
A quick-reference chart showing these swaps for health-conscious or allergen-friendly cooks.

Ingredient Brand Recommendations

Want restaurant-style results? Here are some time-tested favorites:

• Cheddar: Cabot Seriously Sharp, Tillamook, or Kraft block cheddar
• Soup: Campbell’s or Pacific Foods for a cleaner label
• Crackers: Ritz is the classic choice, but any buttery round cracker will work

If you like easy, cheesy chicken dinners, check out our Crispy Chicken Fritta for another comfort food classic.

Step-by-Step Recipe

There’s nothing like watching that cheese bubble and brown, but the real magic happens in the simple steps that build up the flavor and creamy texture. Here’s how to create the perfect copycat Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken—without stress!

Preparation Tips

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish for easy cleanup.
• Chop the broccoli into small, bite-size florets so they cook evenly and stay tender-crisp.
• Pound the chicken (if using breasts) to even thickness for juicy, uniform baking.
• Grate your cheese fresh to ensure it melts smoothly and delivers maximum flavor.
• Let the ingredients come to room temperature (especially the sour cream and soup) so your sauce blends ultra-smooth.

Pro Tip:
To make things easier, assemble the casserole (without the topping), cover it, and keep it in the fridge for up to a day before baking.

Visual, Step-by-Step Instructions

• Layer the Chicken:
  Place chicken breasts (or thighs) in a single layer in your baking dish. Season with a blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder for extra flavor.
• Add the Broccoli:
  Scatter fresh broccoli florets evenly over the chicken.
• Mix the Sauce:
  Mix the cream of chicken soup and sour cream together in a medium bowl until smooth.
• Top the Chicken and Broccoli:
  Gently spread the creamy sauce over the chicken and broccoli, making sure everything is evenly coated.
• Add Cheese and Crackers:
  Sprinkle shredded cheddar generously over the top. In a separate bowl, toss crushed crackers with melted butter, then sprinkle over the cheese.
• Bake to Perfection:
  Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden and the chicken is cooked through to 165°F. Let it rest 5 minutes before serving.

Cooking Method Variations

One of the best things about Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is how flexible it can be. Whether you prefer classic oven baking, love the convenience of your slow cooker, or need something fast in the Instant Pot or air fryer, this comfort food can fit your schedule and kitchen style.

Oven (Classic Method)

• Why choose it?
  The oven delivers the most authentic texture and flavor, giving you that irresistible golden, bubbling cheese and perfectly crisp cracker topping.
• How-to:
  Simply follow the main recipe above—layer, mix, assemble, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is beautifully browned.

Pro Tip:
If you notice your topping browning too quickly, tent with foil for the last 10 minutes.

Crockpot or Slow Cooker

• Why choose it?
  Perfect for busy days! Just layer your ingredients, set it, and walk away—your house will smell amazing.
• How-to:
  • Spray your crockpot insert with nonstick spray.
  • Arrange the chicken, broccoli, sauce, and cheese in layers, saving the cracker topping for later.
  • Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours, or high for 2–3 hours, until chicken is fully cooked and broccoli is tender.
  • Sprinkle crackers and melted butter on top for the last 30 minutes with the lid slightly ajar, or finish under the broiler in a baking dish if you want extra crunch.

Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker

• Why choose it?
  Fast and convenient—especially if you forgot to thaw your chicken!
• How-to:
  • Pour roughly 1/4 cup of chicken broth into the bottom of the Instant Pot.
  • Layer chicken, broccoli, and sauce (skip the cracker topping).
  • Lock lid, cook on high pressure for 8–10 minutes (using thin chicken breasts), quick release pressure.
  • Sprinkle with cheese, then crackers and butter. Transfer to oven broiler or air fryer for a few minutes to crisp up the topping, if desired.

Air Fryer

• Why choose it?
  Great for small batches or extra-crispy results.
• How-to:
  • Assemble in an air fryer-safe dish.
  • Air fry at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and chicken is cooked through.
  • Add crackers in the last 5 minutes for ultimate crunch.

Make-Ahead, Batch Cooking, or Meal Prep Tips

• Assemble the casserole up to the point of adding crackers and cheese; cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to two months; just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking, and plan to add an extra 10 to 15 minutes to the cooking time.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days—they reheat perfectly.

Pro Meal Prep Tip:
Portion into single-serve containers before baking for easy grab-and-go lunches all week.

Looking for more slow-cooker inspiration? Don’t miss our collection of 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Recipes for easy, comforting dinners.

Pro Tips and Troubleshooting for Perfect Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

Even the most seasoned cooks sometimes hit a snag when making casseroles. Whether it’s soggy broccoli, separated cheese, or a topping that just won’t crisp, I’ve been there! Here’s how to master Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken every time and avoid the most common pitfalls.

Avoiding Soggy Broccoli and Curdled Cheese

• Pat the broccoli dry after rinsing. Too much moisture is often the main reason casseroles turn out soggy.
• For a classic Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken texture, use fresh broccoli. If you must use frozen, thaw and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
• Shred your own cheddar cheese. Packaged shredded cheese usually includes anti-caking additives, which can cause the sauce in your Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken to turn out less smooth.
• Bake uncovered for the crispiest topping. If the cheese browns too fast, loosely tent with foil.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

• Chicken undercooked? Check that your Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken reaches 165°F internally before serving. Thicker pieces may need extra time.
• Topping not crisp? Broil the finished Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken for 2–3 minutes at the end—just keep an eye on it!
• Cheese separating or “oily”? This can happen if the dish bakes too long or at too high a temperature. Stick to 350°F and avoid overbaking.
• Broccoli too crunchy? Steam it for 2–3 minutes before adding to your Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken if you prefer a softer bite.

Chef-Level Pro Secrets

• A handful of sautéed onions or a sprinkle of garlic powder gives your Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken an extra boost of flavor.
• For a richer sauce, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or use part heavy cream.
• Double the cracker topping for a crowd—no one complains about extra crunch!
• Let the Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken rest 5 minutes after baking for easier serving and maximum creaminess.

“Always use freshly shredded cheddar for the smoothest melt and sharpest flavor—just like the restaurant!”
— Chef Lisa M., comfort food enthusiast

If you crave even more creamy, crowd-pleasing chicken recipes, don’t miss our Crispy Chicken Fritta, another family-favorite comfort meal.

Serving Suggestions & Leftovers

Nothing brings people to the table faster than the smell of Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken bubbling away in the oven. But what should you serve alongside this comforting classic, and what’s the best way to enjoy leftovers? Let’s make your dinner (and tomorrow’s lunch!) even more irresistible.

Best Side Dishes

Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is rich and creamy, so pairing it with lighter or classic Southern sides is always a win. Try these favorites:

• Fluffy mashed potatoes or buttery rice to soak up every bit of cheesy sauce
• Buttermilk biscuits or homemade cornbread for extra comfort
• Sweet potato waffle fries for a fun and flavorful contrast
• Simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette for freshness
• Steamed carrots or green beans for color and crunch

Family- and Kid-Friendly Serving Ideas

Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is already a family favorite, but here are a few ways to make it even more kid-approved:

• Serve with extra crackers or breadsticks for dipping
• Cut chicken into bite-size pieces before baking for easy serving
• For picky eaters, try topping with crispy bacon bits or an extra handful of cheddar cheese

Creative Ideas for Leftovers

Make sure to enjoy every last bit of your Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken! Here’s how to turn leftovers into new meals:

• Turn leftovers into stuffed baked potatoes by piling the casserole into halved potatoes, adding extra cheese on top, and broiling until hot and melty for a speedy lunch.
• For a quick lunch, wrap warmed leftovers in a flour tortilla with a handful of fresh spinach or lettuce for a cheesy chicken wrap.
• Broccoli cheddar chicken toasties: Layer leftovers on thick slices of sourdough, top with cheese, and toast until bubbly

Pro Tip:
Store leftover Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the oven or toaster oven to bring back that crispy topping!

Nutrition Info & Dietary Adaptations

Making Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken at home gives you the power to tailor this classic comfort food to fit your lifestyle, whether you’re counting calories, cutting carbs, or feeding a family with special dietary needs.

Nutrition Facts Per Serving

A classic serving of Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken (about 1/6th of a casserole) provides:

• Calories: ~400–450
• Protein: 30–35g
• Fat: 23–27g (mostly from cheese, sour cream, and crackers)
• Carbs: 15–20g (mostly from the cracker topping and soup)
• Fiber: 2–3g
  Note: These are approximate and will vary based on brands and exact quantities used. For the most accurate results, use a nutrition calculator or scan packaging.

Gluten-Free, Keto, and Dairy-Free Versions

• Gluten-Free Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken:
  Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and swap regular crackers for your favorite gluten-free buttery crackers or gluten-free panko.
• Keto or Low-Carb Version:
  Skip the crackers or use crushed pork rinds, use a homemade keto cheese sauce instead of canned soup, and opt for full-fat cheese and sour cream.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation:
  Replace cheddar cheese with a quality dairy-free cheese (like Violife or Daiya), use a plant-based sour cream, and sub in a dairy-free “cream of” soup. Double-check all ingredients for hidden dairy.

Infographic Suggestion:
A visual swap guide with “Classic | Gluten-Free | Keto | Dairy-Free” columns, highlighting easy substitutions for each dietary need.

Allergen Substitutions

• Nut-Free: This recipe is naturally nut-free.
• Egg-Free: No eggs required.
• Soy-Free: Check all labels, especially for cream soup and cheese, as some brands use soy-based ingredients.

“With a few tweaks, even families with food allergies can enjoy this comfort food classic together.”
– Registered Dietitian Julie T.

If you need more details about ingredient labels or want to calculate macros, sites like the USDA FoodData Central are a great resource.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

Conclusion

Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken isn’t just a casserole—it’s a slice of Southern comfort that transforms any night into something special. With its creamy sauce, golden cheddar topping, and tender chicken, this copycat recipe delivers everything you love about the restaurant favorite, but right in your own kitchen. Whether you stick with the classic or try one of the easy swaps for gluten-free or keto diets, this dish is sure to be a repeat request at your table.

If you’re looking for more cozy inspiration, don’t miss our Crispy Chicken Fritta for another crowd-pleasing chicken dinner, or pair your casserole with our crispy Sweet Potato Waffle Fries for the ultimate comfort food feast. Thanks for joining me on this delicious journey—be sure to share your results in the comments, and let us know which Cracker Barrel classic you want to see next!

Key Takeaways

• Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken brings classic comfort and family-friendly flavor to your home kitchen.
• The recipe is easy to customize with gluten-free, keto, or dairy-free swaps.
• This dish is great for prepping ahead, makes delicious leftovers, and is a lifesaver on busy weeknights.
• Don’t be afraid to make it your own—add your favorite twists and share your creations!

Ready to cook? Print out the recipe above, give it a try, and let us know in the comments how your Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken turned out.

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