Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe

If you're craving a comforting, cheesy casserole that’s full of flavor and incredibly easy to make, this Broccoli Chicken Divan recipe is a must-try! This classic dish features tender chicken and fresh broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce, all baked together to golden perfection. It's a wonderful family-friendly dinner that can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy Sunday meal. Keep reading for the full recipe, tips, and variations to customize this dish to your taste!

What is Broccoli Chicken Divan?

Broccoli Chicken Divan is a classic casserole that layers cooked chicken and broccoli in a creamy, rich sauce made with cheese, cream, and often a touch of curry powder or mustard for extra flavor. The entire dish is baked until bubbly and golden brown. It’s an easy, one-pan dinner that's warm, hearty, and comforting. Traditionally made with cream of chicken soup, modern versions offer variations with homemade sauce for a fresher taste. Broccoli Chicken Divan is a wonderful way to use up leftover chicken, and it pairs well with rice or crusty bread.

Ingredients List for Broccoli Chicken Divan

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious casserole:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (use rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken)
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or homemade white sauce, see below)
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra tang)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend like cheddar and mozzarella)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for the topping)

Optional Homemade Cream Sauce (Instead of Cream of Chicken Soup):

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Substitutions and Variations

This Broccoli Chicken Divan recipe is versatile, and you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

• Chicken: Swap the chicken for turkey or use rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Broccoli: If you're not a fan of broccoli, you can use cauliflower or a mix of your favorite veggies like carrots, zucchini, or peas.
• Cheese: Use a combination of cheeses for a richer flavor. Gruyère, mozzarella, or even pepper jack can add a unique twist.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: If you prefer not to use canned soup, you can make a simple homemade cream sauce with butter, flour, and milk (see the homemade sauce option above).
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free flour to make the dish gluten-free.
• Lighter Option: Substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version of the dish.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Broccoli Chicken Divan:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli

• Cook the chicken: If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, you can quickly boil or sauté 2-3 chicken breasts until fully cooked. Let them cool slightly before shredding or cubing the meat.
• Cook the broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for about 3-4 minutes until just tender but still bright green. You want the broccoli to be slightly undercooked since it will finish cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

• In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until well-mixed.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning based on the saltiness of the cream of chicken soup.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
• Layer the cooked chicken on the bottom of the prepared baking dish, followed by the blanched broccoli florets. Spread them out evenly.
• Pour the creamy cheese mixture over the chicken and broccoli, spreading it out evenly with a spatula to cover everything.

Step 4: Make the Topping

• In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
• Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top of the casserole. If you like, you can also add a bit more shredded cheese or Parmesan for extra cheesiness.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

• Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly. If the top isn’t browning as much as you’d like, you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes—just be sure to keep an eye on it!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
• Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or a green salad on the side.

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

1. Cook Chicken and Broccoli: Prepare the chicken by cooking or shredding, and blanch the broccoli.
2. Mix Creamy Sauce: Stir together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayo, seasonings, and cheese for a rich sauce.
3. Assemble: Layer chicken and broccoli in a baking dish and spread the creamy mixture over the top.
4. Add Breadcrumb Topping: Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole for a crispy finish.
5. Bake: Bake until bubbly and golden brown, then let it cool before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Although this recipe is straightforward, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your Broccoli Chicken Divan turns out perfectly:

• Overcooking the Broccoli: Make sure to blanch or steam the broccoli only briefly so it doesn't turn mushy when baked.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Let ingredients like the sour cream, mayo, and cheese come to room temperature for easier mixing and more even cooking.
• Forgetting to Season: Be sure to taste the creamy sauce before pouring it over the casserole. Adjust the salt and pepper based on the saltiness of your soup or chicken broth.
• Overbaking: Watch the casserole in the last few minutes to avoid burning the breadcrumb topping. Broil at the end only if needed.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Broccoli Chicken Divan is a complete meal on its own, but here are some serving and presentation tips to make it even more special:

• Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of white or brown rice, mashed potatoes, or garlic bread for a more substantial meal. You can also pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness.
• Plating: Serve individual portions on plates, or bring the casserole dish straight to the table for a family-style meal. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
• Sauce Add-Ons: For extra flavor, drizzle a bit of lemon juice or add a dash of hot sauce on top for a tangy kick.

How to Serve Broccoli Chicken Divan

• Family-Style: Serve directly from the casserole dish at the table, letting everyone dig in. It’s perfect for a cozy, communal meal.
• Individual Portions: Spoon out portions onto plates, serving with your favorite side dishes like rice or a simple salad.
• Garnish: Top with chopped parsley, extra grated Parmesan, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor and presentation.

Presentation Ideas for Broccoli Chicken Divan

• Serve the casserole in a large cast-iron skillet or rustic ceramic dish for a homey, comforting presentation.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon slices to brighten the rich, creamy flavors.
• Pair with brightly colored side dishes, like roasted carrots or a green salad, to add visual contrast.

Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen before or after baking. To freeze, assemble the casserole without baking, wrap it tightly, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
• Leftovers: Store leftover Broccoli Chicken Divan in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or in the microwave for a quick meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
Yes! If using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the casserole.

2. Can I make this dish without cream of chicken soup?
Yes, you can easily make a homemade sauce with butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk (see the "Homemade Cream Sauce" section above). This gives the dish a fresher taste.

3. Can I make Broccoli Chicken Divan gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for the cream sauce to make this dish gluten-free.

4. Can I add rice directly into the casserole?
If you want to add rice, cook it separately and layer it on the bottom of the casserole dish before adding the chicken and broccoli. This way, the rice will soak up some of the sauce and remain fluffy.

Conclusion

Broccoli Chicken Divan is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken and broccoli with a creamy, cheesy sauce for a warm, satisfying meal. Whether you're serving this classic casserole for a weeknight dinner or preparing it for a special occasion, it’s a dish that never fails to please. With a rich sauce, crispy topping, and endless possibilities for customization, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a dish that’s as easy as it is delicious!

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