This Chicken Divan is a classic and comforting casserole that’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Tender chicken, broccoli florets, and a creamy sauce are topped with a buttery breadcrumb topping and baked to perfection. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s sure to please the whole family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful and Cheesy: This casserole is packed with cheesy goodness, thanks to the combination of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and cheddar cheese.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this casserole is a breeze to assemble and bake.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this dish with your favorite vegetables or cheeses.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Chicken Divan:
- Broccoli: Chopped into florets, for a healthy and flavorful addition.
- Cooked chicken: Cubed, you can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Condensed cream of chicken soup: Adds a creamy base and a classic flavor.
- Sour cream: Adds tanginess and extra creaminess.
- Cheddar cheese: Shredded, for a cheesy and melty topping.
- Milk: Thins the sauce to the desired consistency.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
For the Topping:
- Breadcrumbs: I used Panko breadcrumbs for a crispier topping, but you can use any type of breadcrumbs you like.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps brown the topping.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How to Make Chicken Divan
Step 1: Cook the Broccoli
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chopped broccoli florets and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Drain the broccoli well and set aside.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked broccoli florets until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Top with the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 4: Make the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and melted butter. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the quality of your ingredients, especially the chicken and cheese, the better the flavor of the casserole.
- Don’t overcook the broccoli: Cook the broccoli just until tender-crisp to prevent it from becoming mushy in the casserole.
- Adjust the consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more milk. If it’s too thin, you can bake the casserole uncovered for a few more minutes to allow the sauce to reduce.
How to Serve Chicken Divan
- Main Course: This Chicken Divan is a hearty and satisfying meal on its own.
- Side Dish: Serve it as a side dish with your favorite grilled meats, fish, or roasted vegetables.
- Lunch or Brunch: Enjoy it for lunch or brunch with a side of crusty bread and a fresh salad.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
Reheating:
Reheat gently in the oven at 400°F (204°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through, or in the microwave.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Yes, you can add other vegetables, such as sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or chopped spinach.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead of time and bake it the next day.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that your cream of chicken soup is also gluten-free.
There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Chicken Divan that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
PrintChicken Divan Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken Divan is a classic and comforting casserole that’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Tender chicken and broccoli florets are baked in a creamy sauce with a crunchy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients
- 1 pound broccoli, chopped
- 2 cups cooked chicken, cubed
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Topping:
- Cook Broccoli: Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Cook broccoli in boiling water until tender-crisp. Drain well.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked broccoli.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar cheese.
- Make Topping: In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake: Bake for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (Panko recommended)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions
- Cook Broccoli: Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Cook broccoli in boiling water until tender-crisp. Drain well.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked broccoli.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar cheese.
- Make Topping: In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake: Bake for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) until warmed through.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Serving
- Calories: 400kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg