Creamy Chicken Divan with Broccoli
This Creamy Chicken Divan with Broccoli is a beloved family classic, reimagined with tender, flavorful ingredients that everyone will enjoy. A comforting casserole featuring vibrant broccoli florets layered under juicy pieces of chicken, smothered in a creamy, zesty sauce, and topped with a crunchy breadcrumb and cheese topping. Perfect for utilizing leftover chicken or turkey, this one-dish meal is not only easy to prepare but also makes for a satisfying dinner that will delight both kids and adults alike. It's an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or special family gatherings.
N/A
Servings
400
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Frozen broccoli florets
2 (10-ounce packages, thawed or cooked until tender)
Cooked chicken
4 (cups, cut into small pieces)
Mayonnaise
1/2 (cup)
Condensed cream of chicken soup
1 (13-ounce can (low fat or regular))
Lemon juice
1/2 (tablespoon)
Curry powder
1/4 (teaspoon)
Cheddar cheese
1/4 (cup, shredded)
Breadcrumbs
1/2 (cup)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a microwave-safe bowl, steam the frozen broccoli florets until they are tender, about 4-5 minutes.
3
Spray a 9x11-inch casserole dish with cooking spray and evenly distribute the cooked broccoli on the bottom.
4
Layer the cooked chicken pieces over the broccoli, ensuring even coverage.
5
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, cream of chicken soup, lemon juice, and curry powder. Mix well until all ingredients are smoothly blended.
6
Spoon the creamy mixture evenly over the chicken layer.
7
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs generously on top of the casserole.
8
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
9
Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Divan!
Nutrition Information
22.5g
Fat
22.5g
Carbs
25g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Chicken Divan with Broccoli?
It is a classic comfort food casserole made with tender broccoli, juicy chicken, and a zesty cream sauce, topped with cheese and breadcrumbs.
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli florets; just be sure to steam or blanch them until tender before layering them in the dish.
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
You can use any cooked chicken, such as poached chicken breasts, rotisserie chicken, or even leftover roasted turkey.
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely, this recipe is a popular choice for using up leftover holiday turkey.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
How long do I need to steam the frozen broccoli?
Steam the frozen florets for about 4 to 5 minutes in a microwave-safe bowl until they are tender.
What size baking dish should I use?
A 9x11-inch casserole dish is the recommended size for this recipe.
What goes into the creamy sauce?
The sauce is a mixture of mayonnaise, condensed cream of chicken soup, lemon juice, and curry powder.
Can I use a different cream soup?
Yes, cream of mushroom or cream of broccoli soup can be used as alternatives to cream of chicken.
Does the sauce need to be cooked before adding it to the dish?
No, simply mix the sauce ingredients together in a bowl until smooth and spoon it directly over the chicken.
Why is curry powder used in this recipe?
Curry powder adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor that is traditional to Chicken Divan, but it is not spicy.
Can I skip the lemon juice?
While the lemon juice provides a nice acidity to balance the creaminess, you can omit it if necessary.
What kind of cheese is recommended for the topping?
Shredded cheddar cheese is recommended for its sharp flavor and excellent melting properties.
What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?
Crushed crackers, such as Ritz or saltines, or even panko breadcrumbs make a great substitute.
How long does the casserole bake?
Bake covered for 25 minutes, then uncovered for an additional 5 to 10 minutes to brown the top.
Why do I need to cover the dish with foil?
Covering the dish prevents the topping from burning while the interior of the casserole heats through thoroughly.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is finished when the sauce is bubbling and the cheese and breadcrumb topping is golden brown.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the layers and refrigerate the dish; simply add the breadcrumbs and bake when you are ready.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze Chicken Divan?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or place the whole dish back in the oven at 350 degrees F until heated through.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the creamy texture and familiar flavors like cheese and chicken make it a favorite for many children.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 400 calories.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Yes, you can add peas, carrots, or cauliflower along with the broccoli for extra nutrition.
How much protein is in this dish?
This recipe provides about 25g of protein per serving.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Yes, plain Greek yogurt is a common lower-fat substitute for mayonnaise in this recipe.
What side dishes pair well with Chicken Divan?
It is delicious served over white rice, brown rice, or even egg noodles.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
Yes, spray the dish with cooking spray to prevent the broccoli and chicken from sticking.
Can I use low-fat cream of chicken soup?
Yes, low-fat or regular condensed soup works equally well in this recipe.
How do I get a crunchier topping?
You can toss the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter before sprinkling them over the cheese for extra crunch.