Chicken Divan
The Chicken Divan is one of those cozy dishes that always brings back warm memories for me. I can almost hear the laughter of family as we gather around the dinner table, the aroma of creamy goodness wafting through the air. It was a staple in our household, often served during the chilly winter months, when comfort food was not just desired, but necessary. I remember the first time I made it on my own; the satisfaction of layering the ingredients and watching it transform into a bubbly, golden casserole in the oven was pure joy. Each bite of this dish reminds me of the love that goes into cooking for those we hold dear. The blend of tender, shredded chicken and crisp broccoli, all enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer, is simply delightful.
Recipe Snapshot
30 mins
10 mins
20 mins
Easy
450 kcal
35 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
20 g
Frying Pan, Grater, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet
What We Adore About This Chicken Divan
Comforting and Hearty
What I love most about Chicken Divan is its comforting nature. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. The creamy sauce and tender pieces of chicken create a rich flavor that is both satisfying and indulgent.
Quick and Easy
This recipe is incredibly straightforward, which is a lifesaver on busy days. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can whip up a heartwarming meal that feels like it took hours of effort. It’s a great dish for anyone learning to cook, as it doesn’t require complicated techniques.
Versatile Ingredients
The ingredients in Chicken Divan are simple yet versatile. You can switch up the vegetables or even experiment with different types of cheese based on what you have on hand. This flexibility means that you can customize the dish to suit your family’s preferences or dietary needs.
Perfect for Leftovers
One of the best parts about Chicken Divan is how well it keeps. Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully. You can easily pack it for lunch or reheat it for a quick dinner, making it a practical choice for meal prep.
Great for Entertaining
If you’re hosting a gathering, Chicken Divan is an excellent choice to impress your guests. Its eye-catching layers and comforting flavors will make it a hit at any dinner party. You can even prepare it ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
Kid-Friendly
Kids tend to love this dish! The creamy texture and cheesy topping make it a hit with even the pickiest eaters. It’s a sneaky way to get them to eat their veggies without any fuss.
What’s In This Chicken Divan
When it comes to the ingredients in Chicken Divan, each component plays a vital role in creating that comforting flavor profile. The combination of tender chicken and fresh broccoli provides a nutritious base, while the creamy sauce binds everything together deliciously. Let’s take a look at the key players in this dish:
- 3 cups cooked and chopped chicken breasts: The star of the dish, tender and flavorful, providing protein and heartiness.
- 4 cups cooked broccoli florets: Adds a nice crunch and vibrant color, along with essential nutrients.
- 1 10.5-ounce can cream of chicken soup: The creamy base that ties everything together with a rich flavor.
- â…“ cup chicken broth: Enhances the soup’s flavor and adds moisture to the dish.
- ½ teaspoon yellow curry powder: Infuses a subtle warmth and complexity, taking the dish to another level.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully, creating a gooey and satisfying topping.
- 3 tablespoons Panko breadcrumbs: Adds a crispy texture that contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the dish.
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: A hint of salty richness that complements the cheddar.
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted: Used to moisten the breadcrumbs, giving them a golden color when baked.
- Steamed rice: Optional, perfect for serving alongside the casserole to soak up the creamy sauce.
Cooking Instructions for Chicken Divan
Cooking Chicken Divan is a delightful experience, and I promise you it’s easier than you might think. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a comforting casserole ready to enjoy. Let’s walk through the process together so you can bring this dish to your table in no time.
- First, spray a 9-inch pie plate with nonstick spray to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom while baking. Preheat the oven to 425℉, so it’s nice and hot when the casserole goes in.
- Next, place the cooked and chopped chicken breasts in the bottom of the pie dish. Then, add the cooked broccoli florets on top. Sprinkle a bit of salt and pepper to taste, ensuring every bite is seasoned just right.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and yellow curry powder. This mixture will create a creamy sauce that envelopes the chicken and broccoli. Pour this mixture evenly over the broccoli, making sure everything is well covered.
- Now, it’s time to sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. This will melt into a gooey layer of deliciousness as it bakes.
- In a small bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Mix them well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated in butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole for a crunchy finish.
- Now, place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it as it bakes; it should be bubbly and golden brown when it’s done.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Allow it to cool slightly before serving so you don’t burn your mouth on that delicious gooey cheese!
- If you’d like, serve the Chicken Divan over steamed rice, which is optional but highly recommended for an extra comforting meal.
- Enjoy every bite of this heartwarming dish, and don’t forget to share it with loved ones!
Things Worth Knowing
- Use leftover chicken: If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, it works perfectly for this recipe, saving you time on cooking.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare Chicken Divan in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Don’t skip the cheese: The combination of cheddar and Parmesan is crucial for that rich flavor. Always use freshly grated for the best results.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add additional spices or herbs to the creamy mixture to customize it to your taste.
Ways to Adapt This Recipe
Adapting the Chicken Divan recipe is easy and fun, allowing you to put your unique spin on this classic dish. Here are some great ways to make it your own:
- Make it lighter: Use low-fat soup and cheese options to reduce the calorie count without sacrificing flavor.
- Swap the protein: If you want to try something different, substitute the chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to throw in other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to enhance the nutritional value.
- Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Gouda for a unique twist on the flavor.
- Spice it up: For a kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy mixture.
- Top it differently: Instead of breadcrumbs, you could use crushed crackers or even tortilla chips for a fun crunch.
Accompaniments for Chicken Divan
Serving Chicken Divan is all about pairing it with complementary sides and creating a delightful meal experience:
- Steamed vegetables: Pair it with steamed carrots, green beans, or peas for a colorful and nutritious plate.
- Garlic bread: A slice of warm garlic bread makes for a wonderful addition, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Salads: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole beautifully.
- Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even holiday gatherings where you want something comforting.
- Seasonal pairings: In the winter, serve it alongside warm, crusty bread, while in spring, consider a light salad for contrast.
- Storage: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Chicken Divan is a timeless dish that combines comfort and simplicity, making it a perfect choice for any dinner table. Its creamy sauce and tender ingredients create a satisfying meal that you and your loved ones will adore. I encourage you to try making it for your next family gathering or cozy night in; you won’t regret it!
Chicken Divan
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Spray a 9-inch pie plate with nonstick spray and preheat the oven to 425℉.
- Place the cooked and chopped chicken breasts in the bottom of the pie dish and top with the cooked broccoli florets. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and yellow curry powder. Pour this mixture evenly over the broccoli and then sprinkle with the cheddar cheese.
- In a small bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
- Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Serve over steamed rice, if desired.
Notes
- Tip: Nutritional information does not include rice.
