Broccoli Cheddar Chicken (Cracker Barrel Copycat)

If you are a huge fan of Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken this is the recipe for you! Made in the air fryer, it’s the perfect way to cook perfectly cooked this broccoli cheddar chicken (Cracker Barrel Copycat Recipe)

This Cracker Barrel copycat dish features tender and succulent white meat chicken, complemented by broccoli and a luscious cheesy sauce, all topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs.

Simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s sure to win over your family’s taste buds and become a beloved favorite.

If you are a fan of Cracker Barrell, my two favorites are Air Fryer Southern Fried Chicken or this Broccoli Cheddar Chicken, they are both my favorite items on the menu.

Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken with this easy-to-follow recipe.

Serve this hearty dish with mashed potatoes or rice for a complete and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Ingredients

With a few simple ingredients, you can make this delicious chicken dinner for the entire family.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Chicken Breasts: Tender and juicy chicken breasts serve as the hearty base for this dish, providing a satisfying protein component.
• Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add a burst of vibrant color, flavor, and nutrients to the dish, offering a healthy and delicious vegetable element.
• Cheddar Cheese: Rich and creamy cheddar cheese lends its bold flavor and smooth texture to create the indulgent cheese sauce that tops the chicken and broccoli.
• Panko Bread Crumbs or Crushed Ritz Crackers: Adds a delightful crunch and buttery flavor to the dish, providing a delicious contrast to the creamy cheese sauce.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple yet essential, salt and pepper are used to season the chicken breasts and enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• Herbs (optional): Fresh or dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley can be added to the chicken for an extra layer of flavor and aroma, elevating the dish to new heights of deliciousness.

How to Make Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

Making Air Fryer Copycat Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken is a breeze with this simple recipe:

Preparation: Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees F. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.

Season Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

Broccoli Cheddar Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar, mayonnaise, and minced garlic. Mix until well combined.

Top Chicken: Divide the broccoli cheddar mixture among the chicken breasts, spreading it on top evenly.

Breadcrumb Topping: In a separate bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and dried parsley. Sprinkle this mixture over the broccoli cheddar topped chicken breasts, pressing down slightly to adhere.

Cook: Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the topping is golden brown.

Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Pro Tips Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

• Use Sharp Cheddar: Use sharp cheddar cheese in the sauce for a more intense and flavorful cheese sauce. It adds depth to the dish and complements the other ingredients perfectly.
• Add Garlic: For extra flavor, sauté minced garlic in butter before adding the cheese to the sauce. This simple addition enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Steam Broccoli Properly: Be mindful not to overcook the broccoli. Steam it until it’s tender-crisp to retain its vibrant color and nutrients while still providing a satisfying texture.
• Crisp Up the Crackers: Toast the crushed Ritz crackers in a skillet with a bit of butter until golden brown before sprinkling them over the chicken. This step adds an extra layer of crunch and buttery flavor.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. It adds a visually appealing touch and brightens up the plate.

Faq’s

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen broccoli if fresh broccoli is not available. Simply thaw and drain the broccoli before steaming or cooking.

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through before serving.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the sauce? While cheddar cheese is traditional for this dish, you can experiment with other types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Gouda for different flavor variations.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in place of the Ritz crackers.

Can I bake this dish in the oven instead of using an air fryer? Yes, you can bake the Broccoli Cheddar Chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

What can I serve with Broccoli Cheddar Chicken? This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, quinoa, or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Can I use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can substitute boneless skinless chicken thighs for chicken breasts if desired. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the thickness of the chicken thighs.

Do you love Cracker Barrel? Try these copycat recipes!

• cracker barrel carrot recipe
• air fryer cracker barrel macaroni and cheese
• air fryer cracker barrel’s buttermilk biscuits
• air fryer copycat cracker barrel fried apples
• air fryer copycat cracker barrel grilled chicken tenders

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