Introduction
Chicken Divan is a beloved classic in the world of casseroles, combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prepping. Its versatility and ease of customization make it a staple in many households. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to wow your guests, this Chicken Divan recipe will surely satisfy you.
If you enjoy other chicken-based dishes, explore The Ultimate Chicken Cutlet Recipe for Crispy Perfection for a crunchy and delicious alternative.
Ingredients Overview
For this Chicken Divan recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken: Cooked and shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great).
- Broccoli: Fresh or frozen florets, steamed until tender.
- Creamy Sauce: A mix of cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, and cheese, or a homemade sauce for a fresher take.
- Cheese: Cheddar or a blend of your choice for richness.
- Toppings: Panko breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers for a crunchy finish.
- Optional Additions: Garlic, curry powder, or mustard for an extra flavor kick.
Preparation Details
- Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-45 minutes
- Total Time: 50-65 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Calories Per Serving: Approximately 400-600, depending on ingredient choices.
For a rich and flavorful soup option, check out the Bone Broth Recipe: Nourishment in Every Sip.
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Pre-cooking Chicken:
Use leftover chicken, or cook chicken breasts in a skillet with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Shred or dice into bite-sized pieces. - Steps to Prepare Broccoli for Chicken Divan:
Steam fresh broccoli florets for 5-7 minutes until tender but firm. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain well. - How to Make the Sauce for the Chicken Divan recipe:
- Traditional: Combine cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, and shredded cheese in a bowl.
- From Scratch: In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour, and gradually add chicken broth and milk until thickened. Stir in cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Assembling the Chicken Divan Recipe Casserole:
- In a 9×13 baking dish, layer the steamed broccoli and chicken.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle additional cheese and top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
Cooking Instructions
- Bake the Casserole:
Wrap the dish with foil and place it in the oven at 375°F (190°C). Allow it to bake for about 25-30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the topping becomes golden and crispy. - Stovetop Method for Preparing the Chicken Divan Recipe:
Prepare the casserole in a large skillet. Heat on medium until bubbly, then broil the top for a crispy finish. - Best Garnishes for Your Chicken Divan Recipe:
Sprinkle fresh parsley or a dash of paprika for added color before serving.
Tweaks and Variations for Your Chicken Divan Recipe
- Healthier Options: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or opt for low-fat cheese.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce to the sauce.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth for the sauce.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free crackers or skip the topping altogether.
Looking for more flavorful casseroles? You may enjoy Rotel Dip Recipe: A Cheesy Crowd Pleaser for your next gathering.
Serving Suggestions to Pair with Your Chicken Divan
Chicken Divan is versatile and pairs well with many side dishes. Some ideas include:
- Rice: White, brown, or wild rice to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Pasta: Egg noodles or penne for a heartier meal.
- Bread: Serve with crusty French bread or garlic rolls.
- Salad: A fresh green salad for a lighter, balanced meal.
How to Store and Use Leftovers from the Chicken Divan Recipe
- Storage: Leftovers should be placed in a sealed container and stored in the refrigerator. They can remain fresh for up to three days.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions.
- Creative Ideas: Repurpose leftovers as filling for wraps, stuffing for bell peppers, or as a topping for baked potatoes.
FAQs
1. How many calories are in 1 cup of Chicken Divan?
A single serving (1 cup) typically contains 400-600 calories, depending on the recipe’s ingredients and modifications.
2. How do you cook President’s Choice Chicken Divan?
President’s Choice Chicken Divan is a pre-packaged meal that can be baked directly from frozen following the package instructions, usually at 375°F for 30-40 minutes.
3. Can I make Chicken Divan without cream of chicken soup?
Yes, you can prepare a homemade sauce using butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk. Add your favorite seasonings and cheese for flavor.
4. What to serve Chicken Divan over?
Serve Chicken Divan over rice, egg noodles, or mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Chicken Divan is a timeless recipe that’s both comforting and customizable. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with healthier tweaks and variations, this dish is sure to be a hit. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it offers something for everyone. Try it today and share your creative twists!
For homemade bread to accompany your casserole, visit Sandwich Bread Recipe: Soft and Easy Homemade Loaf.