Copycat Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole: A Comfort Food Masterpiece

There’s something magical about the way Cracker Barrel’s Broccoli Cheddar Chicken wraps you in a warm, cheesy embrace—like a hug from your grandma’s kitchen. The first time I tried it, I was hooked. Tender chicken smothered in a velvety cheddar sauce, crowned with buttery Ritz cracker crumbs and crisp-tender broccoli… it was love at first bite. But since I can’t live at Cracker Barrel (tempting as that sounds), I knew I had to recreate it at home.

After testing countless versions, I finally nailed the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and comforting. This casserole is now my go-to for cozy family dinners, potlucks, and even those nights when I need a little extra comfort. It’s rich, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make—no fancy techniques required.

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole

• Restaurant-quality at home – Skip the drive-thru and enjoy that iconic Cracker Barrel flavor in your own kitchen 16.

• Minimal prep, maximum flavor – Just layer, bake, and devour. Perfect for busy weeknights 49.

• Kid-approved (even for picky eaters!) – The cheesy sauce and crispy topping make broccoli irresistible 110.

• Freezer-friendly – Make ahead for easy meals later 910.

• Crowd-pleasing comfort food – Ideal for potlucks, holidays, or Sunday supper with the family 69.

A Dish That Wins Over Skeptics

My brother-in-law, a self-proclaimed “broccoli hater,” once eyed this casserole with deep suspicion. But one bite—just one—and he was converted. The sharp cheddar and buttery crackers softened his resolve, and the tender chicken sealed the deal. Now, he requests it every time he visits. If that’s not a testament to its power, I don’t know what is!

What Makes It Special

✅ Chicken breasts – Juicy, protein-packed, and the perfect base for all that cheesy goodness.
✅ Cheddar cheese soup – The secret to that ultra-creamy, restaurant-style sauce 36.
✅ Freshly shredded cheddar – Melts smoother and richer than pre-shredded cheese 10.
✅ Broccoli florets – Adds freshness, texture, and a pop of color (plus, it’s good for you!).
✅ Ritz crackers – That golden, buttery crunch is everything 16.

Making It Happen: Step-by-Step

1. Prep the stage – Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures nothing sticks and cleanup is a breeze.

2. Whisk the dreamy sauce – In a bowl, combine cheddar cheese soup, milk, paprika, salt, pepper, and half the shredded cheddar. Whisk until smooth and creamy—this is the glue that holds everything together.

3. Layer like a pro – Arrange chicken breasts in the dish and pour half the cheese sauce over them. Scatter broccoli florets on top, followed by crushed Ritz crackers for that signature crunch.

4. Double down on cheese – Pour the remaining sauce over everything, then sprinkle with the rest of the cheddar. (Because more cheese is always the answer.)

5. Bake to perfection – Pop it in the oven for 35-45 minutes, until the chicken hits 165°F and the top is golden and bubbly.

6. Let it rest – Give it 5-10 minutes before serving—this helps the sauce thicken slightly.

You Must Know: Pro Tips for Success

Chicken thickness matters – If your breasts are thicker than 1 inch, butterfly them or add 10-15 minutes to the bake time 410.
Fresh vs. frozen broccoli – Frozen works great, but thaw and drain it first to avoid a watery casserole 19.
Extra crispy topping? – Mix crackers with melted butter before baking, or broil for 2-3 minutes at the end 36.
No cheddar soup? – Swap in cream of chicken soup + extra shredded cheese, or make a quick homemade cheese sauce 39.
Let it stand – Resting ensures the sauce sets, making serving easier 9.

Serving Ideas

Classic Cracker Barrel style – Pair with mashed potatoes and buttery green beans 36.
Over rice or noodles – Let the cheesy sauce soak into every bite.
With a crisp salad – A simple apple pecan salad balances the richness.
Drink pairing – A chilled Chardonnay or sparkling apple cider complements the flavors beautifully.

Make It Different: Customizations

Gluten-free? – Use gluten-free crackers and ensure the soup is GF.
Cheese lovers – Add Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or smoked Gouda for extra depth 310.
Dark meat fans – Swap chicken breasts for thighs (adjust cook time) 410.
Spice it up – Add cayenne, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños for a kick 3.
Veggie-loaded – Toss in peas, carrots, or cauliflower for extra nutrition.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Fridge – Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days 910.
Freezer – Freeze (without cracker topping) for up to 3 months. Add fresh crumbs when reheating 9.
Reheating – Warm in the oven at 350°F (covered) until heated through, or microwave individual portions 10.

Casserole Success Tips

✔ Shred your own cheese – Pre-shredded has anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
✔ Drain broccoli well – Excess moisture = soggy casserole.
✔ Check chicken temp – A meat thermometer ensures perfect doneness (165°F) 49.
✔ Cover if browning too fast – Use foil if the topping darkens before the chicken cooks through 10.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh broccoli?
A: Yes! Steam or blanch it first so it’s tender after baking 19.

Q: What if I don’t have Ritz crackers?
A: Club crackers, saltines, or even crushed cornflakes work in a pinch 10.

Q: Can I prep this ahead?
A: Absolutely! Assemble (without baking) and refrigerate overnight. Add 10 minutes to bake time 9.

Q: Why is my casserole watery?
A: Likely from undrained broccoli or too much milk. Thicken with a cornstarch slurry next time 9.

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
A: Yes! Shred cooked chicken, mix with sauce, and bake for 20-25 minutes 8.

Recipe Card

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Category: Main Dish
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

• 4-6 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 inch thick)

• 1 (14.5 oz) can cheddar cheese soup

• 1 cup milk

• ½ tsp paprika

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, thawed)

• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, roughly crushed

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a bowl, whisk soup, milk, paprika, salt, pepper, and 1 cup cheese until smooth.

3. Arrange chicken in dish and pour half the sauce over it.

4. Top with broccoli and crushed crackers, then remaining sauce and cheese.

5. Bake 35-45 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F.

6. Rest 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Adjust bake time for thicker chicken.

• Thaw frozen broccoli first to prevent excess moisture.

• For extra crunch, toss crackers with melted butter before topping.

Tools You’ll Need

• 9×13 baking dish

• Mixing bowl

• Whisk

• Meat thermometer

Allergy Info

Contains: Dairy, gluten (crackers), wheat.

There you have it—the ultimate Copycat Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole! Whether you’re craving comfort food or need a foolproof crowd-pleaser, this dish delivers every time. Now, go forth and bake with confidence (and maybe extra cheese).