Chicken Divan is a cozy dish featuring tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce, all baked to perfection. It’s a comforting meal that’s sure to please!
My favorite part? It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies! Plus, it smells amazing while baking. Serve it over rice or pasta for a satisfying dinner that warms your heart! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using cooked chicken breast is a great start. You can also use rotisserie chicken for easy prep or leftover turkey if that’s what you have on hand.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds crunch and flavor. If fresh isn’t available, frozen broccoli works well too—just make sure to thaw and drain it properly first.
Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms are optional but add nice texture. If mushrooms aren’t your thing, you can leave them out or substitute with chopped bell peppers.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a robust flavor. Mix it up and try Monterey Jack or Colby cheese instead for something slightly different! You can also use a dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free option.
Mayonnaise or Sour Cream: If you’re looking to lighten this dish, Greek yogurt makes a great swap. It adds creaminess with a bit of tang!
How Do I Make Sure My Broccoli Stays Bright and Tender?
Cooking broccoli should be quick to maintain its vibrant green color and crisp-tender texture. Here’s the best approach:
- Steam your broccoli for just 4-5 minutes. It should be bright green and firm, not mushy.
- After steaming, quickly rinse it in cold water to stop the cooking process. This will keep it tender and flavorful.
Remember, the broccoli will cook a little more while baking, so don’t overdo it! Perfectly cooked broccoli adds a fresh crunch to your Chicken Divan.
How to Make Chicken Divan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise or sour cream
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Divan recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to bake, so you can expect a total time of around 45 minutes to have a deliciously warm meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to preheat while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Steam the Broccoli:
Place the fresh broccoli florets in a steamer and cook them for about 4-5 minutes until they are just tender. Be careful not to overcook them! Once done, drain the broccoli thoroughly.
3. Make the Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise or sour cream, curry powder, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s nicely blended and smooth.
4. Combine Chicken and Broccoli:
Add the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and sliced mushrooms (if you’re using them) to the sauce. Gently mix everything to ensure the chicken and vegetables are well coated in the sauce.
5. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the chicken and broccoli mixture to a greased 9-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
6. Add the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter. Mix well, then evenly sprinkle this topping over the cheese layer.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. You want the topping to be golden brown and the casserole to be bubbly and hot.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once the Chicken Divan is out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. Before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a nice pop of color.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your warm, cheesy, and comforting Chicken Divan! Dig in! 🍽️
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken is perfect for Chicken Divan. Just make sure it’s shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces to mix well with the sauce and broccoli.
Can I Substitute the Broccoli?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of broccoli, you can substitute it with other veggies like cauliflower or even spinach. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable you choose!
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or sour cream. Additionally, using low-fat cheese can cut down on calories while still keeping the dish creamy.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals until warm, stirring occasionally.
