If you're searching for a comforting, creamy, and flavorful casserole, this Broccoli Chicken Divan recipe is perfect for you. It’s a classic dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy sauce topped with cheese and breadcrumbs. Whether you're making it for a weeknight dinner or for guests, this dish is a sure crowd-pleaser. Read on to learn how to make this delicious recipe from scratch and customize it to your taste.
What is Broccoli Chicken Divan?
Broccoli Chicken Divan is a baked casserole dish that traditionally consists of cooked chicken, broccoli, and a creamy sauce, typically made with mayonnaise or sour cream, cheddar cheese, and sometimes cream of chicken soup. It’s a versatile dish, easily adapted with different ingredients or cooking methods, and is typically served as a comforting and hearty main dish.
Ingredients List for Broccoli Chicken Divan
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup mayonnaise (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Substitutions and Variations
There are numerous ways to customize this dish to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. Instead of sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier flavor. For a lower-carb version, replace the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or omit them entirely. If you're looking to add more vegetables, throw in some sliced mushrooms or bell peppers. For a richer flavor, you can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup instead of cream of chicken. You can also use leftover turkey instead of chicken for a post-holiday meal.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Add the cooked chicken and blanched broccoli to the sauce mixture and gently stir to coat everything evenly.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- In a separate small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole.
- Top the dish with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Cook Broccoli Chicken Divan: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking Broccoli Chicken Divan is easy, and it’s all about layering flavors and textures. First, the broccoli is blanched to preserve its color and texture. You don't want it to be too soft because it will continue to cook in the oven. The chicken, which should already be cooked (you can use rotisserie chicken or leftovers), is mixed with a rich, flavorful sauce. After assembling the casserole in layers, it’s topped with breadcrumbs and cheese, which form a delicious, crispy crust in the oven. The key to success is making sure the sauce is well-seasoned and not too runny, so it clings nicely to the chicken and broccoli.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcooking the broccoli. Over-blanching can make the broccoli mushy, especially after baking, so make sure to cook it briefly. Another pitfall is using too much sauce, which can make the dish too soupy. Stick to the recommended quantities to ensure a creamy but not overly liquid consistency. Additionally, under-seasoning the sauce is a frequent error. Be sure to taste the sauce before mixing it with the chicken and broccoli to adjust the seasoning to your liking. Lastly, forgetting to let the casserole rest after baking can cause it to fall apart when served—let it sit for a few minutes to firm up.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Broccoli Chicken Divan is a hearty dish on its own, but you can elevate the meal by serving it with a few simple sides. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the casserole. For a more filling meal, pair it with rice, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes. If you want to keep the meal low-carb, cauliflower rice is a great option. For presentation, sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and freshness.
How to Serve Broccoli Chicken Divan
This casserole is best served hot, right out of the oven, but allowing it to cool slightly will help it hold its shape better when dished out. Cut it into squares or spoon it out depending on your preference. You can serve it family-style directly from the casserole dish at the dinner table or plate individual portions for a more formal presentation. Leftovers also reheat wonderfully, making this an excellent dish for meal prep or lunches the next day.
Presentation Ideas for Broccoli Chicken Divan
To make your Broccoli Chicken Divan look even more appetizing, consider these presentation ideas. After baking, add a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like parsley, chives, or dill for a pop of color and a fresh aroma. Another option is to drizzle a little bit of olive oil or melted butter around the edges before serving for an extra glossy finish. Serve the casserole in a decorative baking dish, or transfer portions to individual ramekins for a more elegant, personal touch. If you're entertaining, you could also top the casserole with a few thin slices of lemon or a light dusting of smoked paprika for added flair.
Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe Tips
- Use fresh broccoli: Frozen broccoli can work in a pinch, but fresh broccoli gives the dish a better texture and flavor. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
- Rotisserie chicken shortcut: Save time by using rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own. Just shred or dice the meat and you’re good to go.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Just assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking.
- Add extra cheese: If you're a cheese lover, feel free to add an extra layer of shredded cheese in the middle of the casserole, or mix some into the sauce for an ultra-creamy dish.
- Customize the topping: If you're out of panko breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or even cornflakes can be used for a crunchy topping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I freeze Broccoli Chicken Divan? Yes! This casserole freezes well. To freeze, assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed.
- Can I use different types of cheese? Absolutely. While cheddar is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
- Is there a dairy-free option? You can make this dish dairy-free by using dairy-free cheese, coconut milk in place of the sour cream, and a dairy-free soup substitute. Make sure to choose a dairy-free butter alternative for the breadcrumb topping as well.
- How long do leftovers last? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven.
- What’s the best way to reheat it? For the best results, reheat Broccoli Chicken Divan in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This keeps the topping crispy, unlike the microwave, which can make it soggy.
Conclusion
Broccoli Chicken Divan is a comforting and delicious dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or preparing it in advance for meal prep, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked broccoli, this dish is both hearty and flavorful. Plus, it's highly customizable, so you can tweak it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a wholesome, crowd-pleasing meal!
PrintBroccoli Chicken Divan Recipe
Broccoli Chicken Divan is a classic comfort food dish featuring tender chicken and broccoli in a creamy cheddar cheese sauce, topped with crunchy breadcrumbs. This hearty casserole is easy to prepare and makes a satisfying weeknight meal. Serve with rice or pasta for a complete dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Steam broccoli until tender but still crisp, about 5 minutes. Arrange in the baking dish.
- Layer shredded chicken over the broccoli.
- In a bowl, mix soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and half of the cheese. Pour the mixture evenly over the chicken and broccoli.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese and breadcrumbs over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add garlic powder or Dijon mustard to the sauce.
- You can use frozen broccoli for convenience; just thaw and drain before using.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ⅙ of recipe
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
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