Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe is a comforting and flavorful casserole dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce topped with melted cheese and crispy breadcrumbs.
It’s a classic favorite that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or potluck gathering. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.
What Is The Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe?
Broccoli Chicken Divan is a classic American casserole dish that typically consists of cooked chicken, broccoli florets, a creamy sauce, and cheese.
It’s often baked in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a comforting and flavorful dish.
The name “Divan” likely comes from the French word “divan,” which originally referred to a room or hall, but in culinary terms, it usually denotes a rich and creamy dish.
How Long Will It Take To Prepare?
- Preparing ingredients (shredding chicken, steaming broccoli, mixing sauce): 15-20 minutes
- Assembling the dish in the baking dish: 5-10 minutes
- Baking time: 30-35 minutes
- Serving: 4-6 people
In total, you’re looking at around 50 minutes to 1 hour of preparation and cooking time. This doesn’t include any additional time for cooling before serving.
Keep in mind that these times are approximate and can vary based on individual circumstances.
How Do You Make Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe?
Broccoli chicken divan is a delicious and comforting dish that combines chicken, broccoli, a creamy sauce, and cheese. Here’s a simple recipe for you:
Essential Ingredients For Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe:
- Two boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- One can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- One tablespoon of lemon juice
- One teaspoon of curry powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Two tablespoons melted butter
Essential Instructions For The Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe:
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cook the chicken breasts in boiling water for about 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Step 2
Alternatively, you can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken. Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3
Steam the broccoli florets until they are tender but still firm, about 5-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 4
In a large bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, curry powder (if using), salt, and pepper.
Step 5
Arrange the cooked chicken in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with the steamed broccoli florets.
Step 6
Pour the creamy sauce mixture evenly over the chicken and broccoli. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the sauce.
Step 7
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer.
Step 8
Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the breadcrumbs. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 9
Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious broccoli chicken divan! Feel free to adjust the seasonings and ingredients according to your taste preferences. You can also add cooked rice or pasta to make it a heartier meal.
Additional Tips For Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe:
- Cooking Chicken: If you’re short on time, consider using pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken instead of boiling and shredding fresh chicken breasts.
- Sauce Consistency: You can adjust the consistency of the sauce to your liking by adding more or less mayonnaise and sour cream. If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of lemon juice or add a tablespoon of flour to the sauce mixture.
- Flavor Enhancement: Experiment with additional herbs and spices to elevate the flavor of your dish. Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning can add depth to the sauce.
- Cheese Variation: Feel free to substitute the cheddar cheese with your favorite cheese or a combination of cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
- Crunchy Topping: For an extra crunchy topping, mix the breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or crispy fried onions before sprinkling them over the dish.
Precautions For Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe:
- Food Safety: Ensure that the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to prevent foodborne illnesses.
- Broccoli Texture: Avoid overcooking the broccoli during steaming to maintain its vibrant green color and crisp texture. Steaming for 5-7 minutes should be sufficient.
- Sauce Thickness: Be cautious when adjusting the thickness of the sauce. Adding too much flour or reducing the amount of liquid can result in a sauce that is too thick or pasty.
- Allergy Considerations: If you or your guests have food allergies or dietary restrictions, be mindful of ingredients such as gluten in breadcrumbs or dairy in the sauce and cheese. Consider using gluten-free breadcrumbs and dairy-free substitutes if needed.
- Storage: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through before serving.
Nutrition Facts Of Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 500 kcal |
| Protein | 30 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 20 grams |
| Fat | 30 grams |
| Fiber | 5 grams |
| Sodium | 1200 mg |
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on factors such as specific ingredient brands, portion sizes, and any modifications made to the recipe.
Conclusion
Broccoli chicken divan is a versatile and delicious dish that can be customized in many ways to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Whether you’re looking for a classic comfort food recipe or want to experiment with different flavors and ingredients, these variations are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Feel free to get creative and make the dish your own by adding your favorite vegetables, spices, or sauces. Enjoy!