Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken casserole

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Easy
Calories per Serving: ~450 kcal

Description

This Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that brings the flavors of the famous restaurant right to your kitchen. Tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich cheddar cheese sauce come together in a delicious baked casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced

• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed until tender

• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed (about 1 sleeve)

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ cups whole milk

• ½ cup chicken broth

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp paprika

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prepare Ingredients

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Steam the broccoli florets until tender (about 5 minutes), then drain and set aside.

• Shred or dice the cooked chicken breast.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.

2. Whisk in 2 tbsp flour and cook for 1 minute until golden.

3. Slowly pour in 1 ½ cups milk and ½ cup chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.

4. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir until the sauce thickens (about 3-5 minutes).

5. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and cheese sauce. Mix well.

2. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

3. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese and ½ cup grated Parmesan on top.

4. In a small bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with 2 tbsp melted butter, then sprinkle evenly over the casserole.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

• Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

• Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Tips & Variations

• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and crackers.

• Add More Veggies: Mix in sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers.

• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.

• Meal Prep: Assemble ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Conclusion

This Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole is a crowd-pleaser with its creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and crispy topping. It’s an easy, hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion!