There’s something irresistibly comforting about Chicken Divan, a dish that wraps its arms around you like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Picture tender chicken, perfectly cooked, enveloped in a creamy sauce that dances with the flavors of broccoli and cheese, topped with a golden crust that beckons you to dive in. savory butter chicken recipe The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking, “What’s for dinner?” before they even step foot inside.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What is Chicken Divan?
- Can I make Chicken Divan ahead of time?
- What sides pair well with Chicken Divan?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Imagine gathering around the table with friends or family, laughter filling the air as you savor each cheesy bite. Chicken Divan is not just food; it’s an invitation to create memories. gnocchi soup with chicken Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish promises to deliver flavor and joy in every forkful. chicken and sweet potato soup.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Divan is an easy one-dish meal that combines comfort and flavor effortlessly
- It’s visually appealing, with vibrant greens and a golden crust that makes it a showstopper
- The creamy texture and cheesy goodness will have everyone coming back for seconds
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for any occasion – from family dinners to potlucks!
I once made Chicken Divan for my friends during a game night, and let’s just say, the plate was empty faster than we could say “touchdown!” For more inspiration, check out this chicken sausages recipe recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust depending on how many people you’re feeding.
- Fresh Broccoli Florets: Choose bright green broccoli for a fresh crunch and vibrant color in your dish.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Go for the sharpest cheddar you can find; it adds rich flavor that beautifully complements the creaminess.
- Mayonnaise: A key player here; it brings creaminess without overpowering the other flavors.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while adding depth to your sauce.
- Garlic Powder: A must-have for flavor; I recommend using garlic powder rather than fresh garlic for smoother texture.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a delightful crunch on top when baked; don’t skimp on them!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures an even bake and helps create that perfectly bubbly cheese topping.
Cook the chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the boneless chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You want them golden brown and flavorful!
Steam the broccoli: While your chicken cooks, steam the broccoli florets until they’re bright green and slightly tender—about 4-5 minutes should do. They should be vibrant and still crisp!
Make the sauce: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, chicken broth, garlic powder, and half the cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy; this is where all that delightful richness comes from!
Combine everything: Once your chicken has cooled slightly, chop it into bite-sized pieces and mix it with the steamed broccoli. Pour the creamy sauce over everything and toss gently to coat each piece evenly.
Top with breadcrumbs: Spread your mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top along with the remaining cheddar cheese. The breadcrumbs will get wonderfully crispy while baking!
Bake: Place your beautiful creation in the oven for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Enjoy watching as it transforms into something utterly irresistible!
Serve & enjoy: Once out of the oven, let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. It’s always hard to wait but trust me; those flavors need a moment to mingle! Serve hot with some crusty bread or over rice for an extra treat.
And there you have it—a hearty Chicken Divan dish that’s sure to impress anyone who takes a seat at your table!
You Must Know
- This Chicken Divan recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy sauce for the ultimate comfort food
- It’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or potlucks
- Plus, the cheesy topping will have everyone fighting for seconds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing the chicken until golden, then steam the broccoli while preparing the creamy sauce. This sequence keeps everything fresh and flavorful, ensuring the chicken stays juicy while the broccoli retains its crunch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out broccoli for green beans or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick. Experimenting with different cheeses like gouda or cheddar can also elevate your Chicken Divan to gourmet status.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Chicken Divan in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use the oven at 350°F for 20 minutes, ensuring it retains that delicious creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve a golden-brown crust on top, broil for a few minutes after baking
- Always taste your sauce before adding salt; cheese adds plenty of flavor
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time without sacrificing flavor
Memories of my first Chicken Divan involve my aunt’s laughter as she caught me sneaking bites of her secret sauce when I thought no one was looking.
FAQ
What is Chicken Divan?
Chicken Divan is a creamy casserole made with chicken and broccoli, topped with cheese. creamy chicken stew.
Can I make Chicken Divan ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it beforehand and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
What sides pair well with Chicken Divan?
Serve it with rice or a simple salad for a balanced meal.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Chicken Divan, a creamy casserole that features tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, all topped with a golden layer of cheese. This dish is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, offering warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Easy to prepare and sure to impress, Chicken Divan will have your family and friends coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Steam the broccoli florets until bright green and slightly tender, about 4-5 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, chicken broth, garlic powder, and half of the cheddar cheese until smooth.
- Combine the chopped chicken and steamed broccoli in a baking dish. Pour the creamy sauce over and gently toss to coat.
- Top with panko breadcrumbs and remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown. Allow to cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
