Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe

Craving a cozy, hearty meal that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying? This Broccoli Chicken Divan recipe is exactly what you need! Known for its creamy, cheesy sauce and tender chicken, this casserole-style dish is a beloved comfort food that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Featuring layers of juicy chicken, fresh broccoli, and a luscious cream sauce, all topped with golden breadcrumbs and melted cheese, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite. Read on to discover the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips to make the best Broccoli Chicken Divan.

What Is "Broccoli Chicken Divan"?

Broccoli Chicken Divan is a classic American casserole dish made with cooked chicken, tender broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce that’s typically topped with cheese and breadcrumbs. It’s a delicious, one-pan meal that’s not only simple to make but also incredibly comforting. This dish is ideal for using up leftover chicken and can be adapted to suit your preferences. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner, Chicken Divan is sure to please.

Ingredients List for Broccoli Chicken Divan

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious, comforting casserole:

• 4 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed and drained)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom)
• 1 cup mayonnaise (or sour cream)
• ½ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Ingredients List for Homemade Cream Sauce (Optional)

If you prefer to make your own creamy sauce instead of using canned soup, here’s a simple recipe for a homemade sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk or half-and-half
• Salt and pepper to taste

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is very adaptable, so feel free to make substitutions based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Here are some common variations:

• Greek Yogurt: For a lighter version, replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangy, protein-packed alternative.
• Frozen Broccoli: If you don’t have fresh broccoli, you can use frozen. Just thaw and drain the broccoli before using it in the casserole.
• Different Cheeses: Mix up the cheese with a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, or even Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that your cream of chicken soup (or homemade sauce) is gluten-free.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken with extra veggies like cauliflower, zucchini, or tofu, and use cream of mushroom soup or a vegetable-based cream sauce.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the breadcrumbs and use crushed pork rinds as a topping for a low-carb or keto-friendly version of Chicken Divan.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s walk through how to make this Broccoli Chicken Divan step by step. This recipe comes together easily in about 40 minutes, making it great for weeknight dinners.

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

2. Steam or Blanch the Broccoli

If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch the florets for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain well and set aside. If using frozen broccoli, make sure it’s thawed and thoroughly drained.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. This will create the creamy base for the casserole. If you prefer homemade sauce, see the instructions below for how to make a simple cream sauce.

4. Add the Chicken and Broccoli

Stir the cooked chicken and broccoli into the creamy sauce mixture, ensuring everything is well-coated. Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

5. Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan over the top of the casserole. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the panko breadcrumbs and sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer to create a golden, crispy topping.

6. Bake the Casserole

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

7. Rest and Serve

Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired, and serve hot!

How to Make Homemade Cream Sauce for Broccoli Chicken Divan

If you prefer to skip the canned cream of chicken soup, here’s a simple homemade cream sauce you can make:

1. Make a Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 3 tablespoons of flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture turns golden and bubbly.
2. Add Liquid: Slowly pour in 1 ½ cups of chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Then add 1 cup of milk or half-and-half.
3. Simmer Until Thickened: Bring the mixture to a simmer, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Use in the Recipe: Once thickened, use this sauce in place of the canned soup in the recipe above.

How to Cook Broccoli Chicken Divan: A Step-by-Step Guide

To ensure your Broccoli Chicken Divan turns out perfectly every time, follow these key tips:

1. Cook Broccoli Until Tender-Crisp: Blanch or steam your broccoli for just a few minutes. You want it to be tender but still firm, so it doesn’t become mushy when baked.
2. Use Fully Cooked Chicken: This dish works great with leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or pre-cooked chicken breast. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.
3. Golden Breadcrumbs: Mixing the breadcrumbs with melted butter ensures they bake up golden and crispy rather than dry. You can also broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end if you want the topping extra crispy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Broccoli Chicken Divan:

• Soggy Broccoli: Avoid overcooking the broccoli before baking. If the broccoli is too soft going into the oven, it will become mushy in the casserole.
• Dry Casserole: Be sure to use enough sauce to coat the chicken and broccoli. If the mixture seems too dry, add a bit more milk or chicken broth to loosen it up.
• Undercooked Breadcrumbs: Make sure to toss the breadcrumbs with melted butter so they get crispy and golden. If the breadcrumbs look too pale, you can broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end.

Serving and Presentation Tips

For a beautifully presented Broccoli Chicken Divan, try these tips:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top just before serving brightens up the dish and adds a fresh pop of color.
• Serve Family-Style: Bring the casserole dish directly to the table and let everyone serve themselves. This makes for a casual, homey presentation that’s perfect for family dinners.
• Pair with Simple Sides: Serve the casserole with a light side salad or crusty bread to round out the meal without overpowering the rich, creamy dish.

How to Serve Broccoli Chicken Divan

This hearty dish can be served on its own or with a few simple sides to balance the richness. Here are some ideas for how to serve it:

• With Rice: Serve the chicken divan over a bed of steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a more filling meal.
• With Bread: A side of crusty bread or garlic bread works great for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• With a Fresh Salad: Pair the rich casserole with a crisp, fresh salad to balance the flavors. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette works well.

Presentation Ideas for Broccoli Chicken Divan

To make your Broccoli Chicken Divan look as good as it tastes, consider these presentation ideas:

• Individual Servings: Serve the divan in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
• Rustic Casserole Dish: For a cozy, homey feel, serve the casserole directly from the baking dish at the table.
• Add Color: Garnish with bright green herbs like parsley or cilantro, and sprinkle a few extra Parmesan shavings on top for an extra touch of elegance.

Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Freezer-Friendly: Broccoli Chicken Divan freezes well! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use raw chicken in this recipe?
It’s best to use cooked chicken in this recipe, as the casserole won’t bake long enough to fully cook raw chicken. If using raw chicken, cook it first before adding it to the dish.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or entertaining.

3. What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can use sour cream or Greek yogurt instead. Both will add a tangy flavor and creamy texture to the sauce.

4. Can I use other vegetables besides broccoli?
Absolutely! You can substitute or add vegetables like cauliflower, zucchini, or carrots. Just make sure they are lightly cooked before adding them to the casserole.

Conclusion

Broccoli Chicken Divan is a comforting, easy-to-make casserole that brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce for a meal that’s sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or something to take to a potluck, this recipe is a perfect choice. With its golden breadcrumb topping and rich flavor, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Give this recipe a try tonight, and enjoy the deliciousness!

Happy cooking and bon appétit! 🍽️

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