Cracker Barrel-Inspired Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Bake

Craving that comforting, cheesy Cracker Barrel goodness at home? This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Bake is just the thing. Juicy baked chicken, tender broccoli florets, creamy sauce, buttery cracker topping, and melted cheddar come together in one cozy, crowd-pleasing dish!
It’s easy, family-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday suppers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Inspired by Cracker Barrel’s beloved dish
- Easy one-pan comfort food
- Perfectly cheesy and creamy
- A full meal with protein + veg + crunchy topping
- Kid-approved and weeknight-ready
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp paprika
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Bake
Step 1: Prep the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Season the chicken
Lightly season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Arrange them in the prepared dish.
Step 3: Mix the sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, and paprika until smooth.
Step 4: Add the broccoli and sauce
Scatter the broccoli florets around and in between the chicken. Pour the creamy sauce over everything, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
Step 5: Top it off
Sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers evenly over the dish, then top with the shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 6: Bake it
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the topping is golden and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve & enjoy
Spoon onto plates, making sure each portion has juicy chicken, cheesy sauce, broccoli, and crispy topping.
Tips & Variations
- Shortcut tip: Use frozen broccoli florets—just thaw and pat dry first.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Extra creamy: Stir in 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt to the soup mixture.
- Swap the cheese: Try Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder twist.
What to Serve With It
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Fluffy rice or buttered noodles
- Warm dinner rolls or a simple green salad
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 300°F or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
This Cracker Barrel-style Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is cozy, creamy, and always a hit at the dinner table. Whether you’re feeding the family or looking for leftovers that reheat like a dream, this dish is sure to satisfy!