Chicken Divan Cheesy Broccoli

Chicken Divan is the ultimate comfort casserole that makes busy weeknights a breeze. Chunks of juicy chicken and crisp broccoli are tucked under a blanket of creamy cheese sauce and finished with buttery breadcrumbs. It is one of those crowd-pleasing dishes that brings families to the table fast.

The first time I made Chicken Divan was for a potluck at my daughter’s school. It was wiped out before I even had a chance for seconds and now it is a guaranteed hit whenever I bring it along.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: Add lean protein and soak up all the flavor Look for fresh chicken that is firm and pink for best results
• Broccoli florets: Bring color freshness and chock full of vitamins Choose bright green heads that feel dense
• Cream of chicken soup: Lends a creamy backbone Choose a good quality low sodium brand if you can
• Shredded cheddar cheese: The gooey cheesy topping that gets golden as it bakes Opt for sharp cheddar for extra punch
• Onions: Gives a subtle sweetness to the sauce Use fresh yellow onion and dice it small for even cooking
• Mayonnaise: Enhances the richness and helps everything stay creamy Use real mayo for the best texture
• Milk: Thins out the sauce for perfect consistency Whole milk makes it creamier but any milk works
• Italian breadcrumbs: Provide crunch on top Store bought is easy but try homemade if you have time
• Butter: Binds the breadcrumbs for that irresistible crust Use real butter for more flavor
• Seasonings: Salt black pepper garlic powder onion powder and paprika for a layered savory taste
• Parsley: For a fresh finish and pop of color it is optional but lovely at the end

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Skillet:

Set your skillet over medium heat and let the oil warm up for two to three minutes This allows the chicken to sear instantly instead of sticking

Sauté Chicken and Onions:

Add the cubed chicken and diced onions to the skillet Throw in all your seasonings salt black pepper garlic powder onion powder and paprika Mix well to coat every piece evenly Cook for several minutes stirring occasionally Continue until chicken is fully cooked and no pink remains The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 F

Add Broccoli and Sauce Ingredients:

Once the chicken is done toss in broccoli florets cream of chicken soup milk and mayonnaise Stir everything together until you have a unified creamy mixture Continue cooking for four minutes The broccoli should turn a vibrant green but stay al dente

Build the Casserole:

Pour this hot mixture into your baking dish Use either an eight inch or nine inch square dish Smooth the surface with a spoon

Add Cheese:

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top Make sure every inch of the casserole is covered by this cheesy blanket

Make and Add Breadcrumb Topping:

In a small bowl quickly stir together breadcrumbs and melted butter to moisten all the crumbs Evenly scatter this crunchy mixture over the cheese layer for a crisp golden finish

Bake:

Slide the dish into the oven and bake at four hundred degrees Fahrenheit for twenty minutes The top should turn golden brown and the cheesy middle will be bubbling

Finish and Serve:

Take out of the oven Let it rest for a couple of minutes Optionally sprinkle with chopped parsley Slice and serve while piping hot

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My favorite thing about this recipe is the way the cheesy topping melts into every bite making even broccoli disappear from my daughters plate I will never forget how proud she was to help sprinkle the breadcrumbs and watch her favorite dinner turn golden in the oven

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in a well sealed container in the refrigerator It stays fresh for up to three days For reheating I recommend the oven or toaster oven to bring back that crisp topping The casserole also freezes with great results Just thaw overnight in your fridge and reheat when ready

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of fresh broccoli use frozen florets just thaw and pat dry first Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise if you want it lighter For a gluten free version try gluten free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes and make sure your soup is suitable

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Divan is filling all on its own But I love it paired with steamed rice buttered egg noodles or a crusty loaf of bread For something green a simple crisp salad or extra steamed veggies on the side make a complete meal

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A Bit of History

Chicken Divan was a signature dish at the old Divan Parisien restaurant in New York City in the twentieth century It was prized for its creamy sauce and elegant layered presentation Today it is a beloved casserole across American kitchens cherished for nostalgia as much as flavor

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I keep the chicken tender in Chicken Divan?

Cook the chicken in a skillet just until done. Avoid overcooking to ensure it stays juicy before baking.

→ Can frozen broccoli be used instead of fresh?

Yes, thaw frozen broccoli and pat dry. Fresh broccoli adds better texture, but frozen works in a pinch.

→ Is cheddar cheese the only option for the topping?

While cheddar is classic, you can mix in Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or your favorite melting cheese for variety.

→ How do I achieve a crispy breadcrumb topping?

Melt the butter and mix thoroughly with breadcrumbs before sprinkling on top, then bake until golden brown.

→ How can I prep Chicken Divan ahead of time?

Assemble the dish up to the breadcrumb step, cover and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best results.

→ What pairs well with this dish?

Serve with fluffy rice, buttered noodles, or a crisp green salad to complete the meal.