Broccoli Chicken Divan: A Creamy, Comforting Classic 🥦🍗🍽️
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Introduction:
There’s nothing quite like a creamy, cheesy casserole to warm the soul, and Broccoli Chicken Divan is one of those timeless recipes that brings together hearty ingredients for the ultimate comfort food. Tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce topped with melted cheese and golden breadcrumbs—it’s no wonder this dish has been a family favorite for generations.
Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress at potlucks, Chicken Divan delivers every time. Best of all, it’s simple to make and can be prepped ahead of time for even easier cooking. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this classic recipe that’ll have your family coming back for seconds!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or use frozen)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for variety)
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for breadcrumbs)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for added flavor)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- One-Pan Wonder: This dish combines chicken, veggies, and sauce all in one baking dish, making cleanup a breeze.
- Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences—swap broccoli for cauliflower or add extra spices for a little kick.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble it the night before and pop it in the oven when ready to cook.
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish.
2. Prepare the Broccoli
If using fresh broccoli, blanch it by boiling it for 2-3 minutes, then immediately transferring it to an ice bath to stop the cooking. If using frozen broccoli, you can skip this step and simply thaw it.
3. Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the cooked broccoli evenly in the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
- Layer the shredded or cubed chicken over the broccoli.
- Pour the creamy sauce mixture evenly over the chicken and broccoli, making sure everything is coated.
5. Add Cheese & Topping
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. If you’re adding the breadcrumb topping, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter and Parmesan cheese in a small bowl. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the cheese.
6. Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly, and the cheese is melted and golden. If using breadcrumbs, they should be lightly browned and crisp.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color if desired. Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or enjoy it on its own for a complete meal!
Serving Suggestions:
- Over Rice: Serve this Chicken Divan over steamed white rice or wild rice for a hearty meal.
- With Potatoes: Mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes are great sides to complement the creamy casserole.
- Salad on the Side: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the richness of the dish.
Pro Tips for the Best Broccoli Chicken Divan:
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For even quicker prep, use a store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves time without sacrificing flavor.
- Customize the Creamy Sauce: If you want a lighter version, substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, or use low-fat sour cream.
- Crunchy Topping: If you love a crispy top, don’t skip the panko breadcrumbs—they add a wonderful crunch to the cheesy goodness.
FAQs:
Can I freeze Chicken Divan?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole without the breadcrumbs, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge, add the breadcrumbs, and bake as directed.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can fully assemble the casserole and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply follow the baking instructions.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Definitely. If using frozen broccoli, just make sure it’s fully thawed and drained well to avoid excess water in the casserole.
Customization Ideas:
- Extra Veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms, cauliflower, or even spinach for extra nutrition and texture.
- Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce.
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in some mozzarella or Gruyère cheese with the cheddar for an even more indulgent, cheesy topping.
Why This Broccoli Chicken Divan Will Be Your New Favorite Casserole:
This creamy, cheesy casserole is perfect for busy nights when you want something satisfying and quick. The tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and rich sauce are comforting and nutritious, while the melted cheese and crispy breadcrumb topping give it a restaurant-worthy finish. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, potluck, or meal prepping for the week, this Broccoli Chicken Divan will always leave everyone craving seconds.