Chicken Divan

This Chicken Divan recipe is a hearty and comforting casserole made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s perfect for a family dinner, offering a rich, flavorful combination of chicken, vegetables, and melted cheese, all topped with a golden, crispy cracker crust. Easy to prepare and bake, this dish is ideal for busy nights when you need a filling, home-cooked meal. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, it’s a quick and delicious option that will be loved by everyone at the table. Make it ahead for convenience or enjoy it fresh out of the oven with your favorite sides.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts (see notes)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 stick celery, diced
• 4 cups broccoli florets (about ½ lb.)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 10.5 oz. cream of chicken soup
• ⅔ cup sour cream
• ½ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• 2 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

Topping:

• ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Chicken: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables: In a Dutch oven or large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chicken, diced onion, and celery, and sauté for about 3 minutes until the chicken is about halfway cooked. Add the broccoli florets and 1 tablespoon of olive oil, cooking for another 3-5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through. Remove from heat.
3. Make the Sauce: Add the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until smooth and well-mixed.
4. Assemble and Bake: Transfer the chicken mixture to a lightly greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
5. Prepare the Topping: After 20 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C). In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with the crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the casserole.
6. Crisp the Topping: Bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy. Once done, remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
7. Serve: Serve the Chicken Divan over rice, biscuits, or mashed potatoes for a complete and hearty meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Hearty: Chicken Divan combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a crunchy topping for a comforting, satisfying meal.
• Family-Friendly: A great way to sneak in vegetables like broccoli while keeping the dish delicious for everyone.
• Simple and Quick: With minimal prep time, this casserole is perfect for busy nights when you need a filling, home-cooked meal.

Tips

• Ensure Even Cooking: For evenly cooked chicken, make sure to cut the chicken pieces to a similar size and avoid overcooking them during the sautéing process.
• Blanch the Broccoli: For a softer texture, you can blanch the broccoli for a couple of minutes before adding it to the pot.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your cream of chicken soup and sour cream sit at room temperature for easier mixing.

Variations and Substitutions

• Low-Fat Option: Use reduced-fat sour cream and substitute the cream of chicken soup with a lighter version to cut down on calories.
• Add Extra Veggies: Try adding mushrooms, carrots, or peas to the casserole for more flavor and nutrients.
• Cheese Substitution: If you prefer, swap the cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used instead of fresh. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the casserole.

Can I make Chicken Divan ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add the topping and bake when you’re ready to serve.

How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover Chicken Divan can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven to maintain the crispy topping.

Serving and Suggestions

Chicken Divan pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce or gravy. If you have leftovers, it’s great for meal prep or as a make-ahead dish for a busy week!