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Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken

Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
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This Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts smothered in a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce with fresh broccoli florets. Easy to prepare and family-friendly, this comforting dish balances cheesy, savory flavors with nutritious vegetables, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)

Vegetables

  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets

Dairy and Fats

  • 1 cup shredded sharp or mild cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Oils

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Lightly season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and optional onion powder to build a savory base flavor.
  2. Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside to keep warm.
  3. Cook the Broccoli: In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and sauté for 3-4 minutes until bright green and just tender, scraping the browned bits for extra flavor.
  4. Make the Cheese Sauce: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the remaining juices. Slowly sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
  5. Combine and Simmer: Return the chicken to the skillet, nestle it into the cheesy broccoli mixture, and spoon some sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
  6. Serve Warm: Once the cheese sauce is thick and bubbly, remove from the heat and serve immediately for the best creamy experience.

Notes

  • Use fresh broccoli for best texture and vibrant color.
  • Grate your own cheddar cheese to ensure smooth melting.
  • Do not overcook chicken on the stovetop; it will finish cooking in the sauce.
  • Melt cheese over low heat to prevent graininess or separation.
  • Let chicken rest 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

Nutrition

Keywords: Broccoli Cheddar Chicken, Cracker Barrel Copycat, Cheesy Chicken, Comfort Food, Family Dinner, Easy Chicken Recipe

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/cracker-barrel-broccoli-cheddar-chicken/