Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe

If you're searching for a hearty, flavorful, and comforting meal that’s easy to prepare, you’ve found it! This Broccoli Chicken Divan recipe brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy sauce topped with a golden, crispy layer of cheese and breadcrumbs. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to be a hit. Ready to learn how to make it? Keep reading for all the details, tips, and tricks to perfecting this classic casserole.

this Recipe

What is Broccoli Chicken Divan?

Broccoli Chicken Divan is a beloved casserole dish that has stood the test of time, originating in the early 20th century at the Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York City. The term “Divan” means a grand or elegant sofa, fitting for a dish that was once considered fancy yet approachable. This recipe traditionally combines broccoli, chicken, and a rich, creamy sauce made from ingredients like butter, cream, and cheese, all baked together in one satisfying dish. Over time, variations have emerged to simplify the dish, but the heart of it remains the same—a flavorful, cheesy casserole that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table.

Ingredients List for Broccoli Chicken Divan

To make a delicious Broccoli Chicken Divan, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed or shredded
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or 2 10-ounce packages frozen broccoli)
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon curry powder (optional for a hint of spice)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (for the topping)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (to mix with breadcrumbs for the topping)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients List for Broccoli Chicken Divan (Alternate Version)

For those who prefer a healthier or different take on the traditional recipe, here’s an alternative ingredient list:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed (or rotisserie chicken for convenience)
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (steamed lightly)
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) low-sodium cream of mushroom or cream of broccoli soup
• ½ cup Greek yogurt (instead of mayonnaise)
• 1 cup cottage cheese (for a lower-fat option)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (instead of curry powder for a different flavor)
• 1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (for a healthier topping)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (instead of butter for mixing with breadcrumbs)
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Salt, pepper, and paprika to taste

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about Broccoli Chicken Divan is how adaptable it is. You can switch out ingredients based on dietary preferences or what you have available in your kitchen. Here are some popular substitutions and variations:

• Meat Variations: Use turkey or ham instead of chicken. Leftover turkey from Thanksgiving works great in this dish.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with chickpeas, tofu, or a medley of roasted vegetables like cauliflower or zucchini.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the topping.
• Cheese Options: Swap sharp cheddar for mozzarella, Swiss, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack cheese.
• Lighter Version: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt and use low-fat cheese to cut down on calories.
• No Soup Cans: Make your own cream sauce using a roux of butter, flour, and milk instead of relying on condensed soup.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking! Follow this simple, step-by-step guide to create the perfect Broccoli Chicken Divan:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Broccoli: If you’re using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch it for 3-5 minutes until it’s tender but still crisp. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain well to remove excess moisture.
3. Prepare the Chicken: If your chicken isn’t already cooked, poach or bake it until fully cooked, then shred or cube it. If using rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and shred the meat.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), sour cream, lemon juice, and curry powder (if using). Stir until smooth and well-mixed.
5. Assemble the Casserole: In a large casserole dish, spread the cooked broccoli evenly across the bottom. Layer the shredded chicken on top of the broccoli. Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and broccoli, spreading it out with a spatula to ensure even coverage.
6. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole, followed by the grated Parmesan.
7. Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and melted butter (or olive oil for a lighter option). Mix well, then sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
8. Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling at the edges.
9. Cool and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.

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

Cooking Broccoli Chicken Divan may sound intimidating at first, but it’s actually quite simple! Here’s a more detailed breakdown to ensure you get the best possible results:

1. Steaming the Broccoli: Use a steamer basket over boiling water, or microwave the florets with a bit of water in a covered dish for 3-4 minutes. Drain well to avoid a watery casserole.
2. Preparing the Chicken: For juicy, tender chicken, poach boneless chicken breasts in a pot of simmering water with salt, pepper, and a bay leaf. After 15-20 minutes, the chicken should be cooked through and ready to shred.
3. Creamy Sauce Consistency: When mixing your sauce, make sure it’s thick but spreadable. If it's too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it. If too thin, add a little more mayonnaise or sour cream.
4. Cheese Selection: Sharp cheddar works well because it adds depth and a nice contrast to the creamy sauce. You can also combine cheeses for added flavor.
5. Even Layering: When layering the broccoli, chicken, and sauce, make sure each layer is evenly spread for a balanced bite in every forkful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Broccoli: Steaming or blanching the broccoli just until it's tender-crisp will prevent it from becoming mushy when baked.
• Using Too Much Sauce: Avoid adding too much sauce, as this can make the casserole soupy. Stick to the measurements provided or adjust slightly to suit your preferences.
• Skipping the Topping: The breadcrumb topping adds a delicious crunch that contrasts with the creamy filling, so don’t skip it!
• Overcooking the Chicken: Dry, overcooked chicken can detract from the creamy, rich texture of the dish. Use already cooked chicken to avoid this mistake.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation matters, especially when you're serving guests or trying to impress your family with a homemade meal. Here’s how to make your Broccoli Chicken Divan look as good as it tastes:

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley, thyme, or even chives over the top for a pop of color.
2. Serve in Individual Ramekins: For a more elegant presentation, divide the casserole mixture into individual ramekins before baking.
3. Pair with a Light Side: Serve the dish alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

How to Serve Broccoli Chicken Divan

Broccoli Chicken Divan is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with some well-chosen sides. Here are a few ideas:

• With Rice: Serve over white or brown rice to soak up the creamy sauce.
• With Pasta: This dish pairs wonderfully with egg noodles or fettuccine.
• With Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread complements the creamy casserole beautifully.

Presentation Ideas for Broccoli Chicken Divan

• Color Contrast: Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or freshly chopped parsley to make the dish pop.
• Family-Style Serving: Serve straight from the casserole dish in the middle of the table for a cozy, family-style meal.
• Individual Servings: Spoon the casserole onto plates and sprinkle extra cheese or breadcrumbs on top before serving.

Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
• Freezing: Broccoli Chicken Divan freezes well. After assembling, freeze it unbaked. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake when ready.
• Portion Control: If you have leftovers, divide them into meal-sized portions and store them in airtight containers for a quick meal later.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli? A: Yes, frozen broccoli works just as well as fresh. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using to prevent excess moisture.

Q: How long does Broccoli Chicken Divan last in the fridge? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze Broccoli Chicken Divan? A: Yes, this casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble and freeze unbaked for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free? A: You can make this dairy-free by using a dairy-free cream soup, mayonnaise, and cheese substitute.

Conclusion

Broccoli Chicken Divan is a timeless, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, versatile, and a great way to use up leftover chicken. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or put your own spin on it with substitutions and variations, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a comforting meal that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare!

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