Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe

Craving a dish that’s both comforting and healthy? Look no further than this Broccoli Chicken Divan recipe. Loaded with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich creamy sauce, this dish brings together the best of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for a quick family meal or something impressive for a dinner party, Broccoli Chicken Divan will never disappoint. Read on to learn how to make this irresistible classic with our easy-to-follow guide!

What is Broccoli Chicken Divan?

Broccoli Chicken Divan is a classic American casserole that has been loved for generations. Traditionally, it combines tender chicken breast, fresh broccoli, and a creamy sauce, all topped with golden breadcrumbs or cheese. It’s perfect for using up leftover chicken and can easily be made ahead, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or meal prepping. The dish is rich, comforting, and packs a nutritious punch thanks to the star ingredient—broccoli.

Let’s dive into the ingredients list and get started!

Ingredients List for Broccoli Chicken Divan

To prepare this delicious casserole, you'll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed) – Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets – You can substitute frozen broccoli if fresh is unavailable.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup – Provides a creamy, flavorful base for the sauce.
• ½ cup mayonnaise – Adds richness and tanginess to the dish.
• ½ cup sour cream – For an extra creamy texture and slight tang.
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice – Brightens the flavors and balances the richness.
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese – For mixing into the sauce.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – For topping the casserole.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a subtle depth of flavor.
• ½ teaspoon paprika – For a little color and mild spice.
• Salt and pepper – To taste, for seasoning the dish.

Topping Ingredients:

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional) – Panko or regular breadcrumbs work well for added crunch.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter – To mix with breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about Broccoli Chicken Divan is its flexibility. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:

• Meat substitutes: If you prefer something other than chicken, turkey or ham can be excellent alternatives.
• Vegetarian version: Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or cauliflower to make it a veggie-packed dish.
• Cheese: While cheddar is traditional, you can switch it up with mozzarella, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
• Dairy-free: Substitute the cream, cheese, and mayonnaise with dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk or vegan cheese to accommodate dietary preferences.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely. You can also use gluten-free cream of chicken soup.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking Broccoli Chicken Divan is simpler than you might think! Below is a step-by-step guide to help you make this dish perfectly every time.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli

If you’re starting with uncooked chicken, begin by poaching or roasting it. For poaching, place chicken breasts in a saucepan and cover them with water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, until cooked through. Let the chicken cool before shredding or cutting into cubes.

Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes. The broccoli should still be crisp-tender since it will cook further in the oven. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, you can prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir well until smooth. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Next, stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

In a 9x13-inch baking dish, arrange the blanched broccoli florets and cooked chicken evenly. Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the top, spreading it out so it covers the chicken and broccoli. Be sure everything is well coated.

Step 5: Add the Topping

Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole. If you’re adding breadcrumbs, combine them with the melted butter and sprinkle the mixture on top for extra crunch.

Step 6: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once baked, allow the Broccoli Chicken Divan to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set and makes it easier to portion out.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the broccoli: If you overcook the broccoli during blanching, it can become too mushy once baked. Aim for crisp-tender florets to avoid this mistake.
• Using dry chicken: Make sure your chicken is moist by not overcooking it when poaching or roasting. Dry chicken can make the dish less enjoyable.
• Skipping the resting time: It’s important to let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and prevents it from running all over the plate when served.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How you serve and present Broccoli Chicken Divan can take this dish from a casual weeknight dinner to an impressive meal for guests. Here are some serving and presentation ideas:

How to Serve Broccoli Chicken Divan

• Family-style: Serve straight from the baking dish for a casual, comforting meal. Let everyone help themselves, which makes it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
• Portioned: For a more elegant touch, slice the casserole into neat portions and serve on individual plates, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives.

Presentation Ideas for Broccoli Chicken Divan

• Add color: Brighten up the presentation by garnishing with chopped parsley, sliced green onions, or even some diced red bell pepper for a pop of color.
• Layering: When assembling the dish, arrange the broccoli and chicken in a visually appealing way so that each piece looks intentional. This is particularly important if you’re serving it to guests.
• Serve with sides: Serve alongside a simple green salad or rice for a complete meal. You can also pair it with a loaf of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: Broccoli Chicken Divan is a great make-ahead dish. Simply assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just note that you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold.
• Freeze for later: This dish freezes well. After assembling, wrap tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
• Double the recipe: If you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping, you can easily double this recipe and bake it in two separate casserole dishes. One can be enjoyed right away, and the other can be frozen for a future meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just be sure to thaw it first and drain any excess moisture to avoid a watery casserole.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through or use a microwave.

Q: Can I make Broccoli Chicken Divan without mayonnaise?
A: Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with extra sour cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Q: Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
A: You can make a lighter version by using low-fat or fat-free versions of the cream soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, and cheese. You can also add more vegetables to boost the nutritional content.

Conclusion

There you have it—a delicious, easy-to-make Broccoli Chicken Divan that will please everyone at the table. With its rich creamy sauce, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli, this casserole is a winner for both flavor and convenience. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping, or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite in your recipe rotation. So gather your ingredients and give this comforting classic a try tonight!

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