Chicken Divan Recipe: Easy & Classic Casserole

Craving comfort food that’s both easy and impressive?

Look no further! This Chicken Divan recipe is a creamy, cheesy dream that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It’s the kind of dish that will have everyone asking for seconds, and the best part? It’s incredibly simple to put together.

Why You’ll Love It

• It’s incredibly comforting and flavorful, with a creamy sauce and tender chicken.
• It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• It’s a great way to use leftover cooked chicken.
• It’s family-friendly, and even picky eaters will love the cheesy goodness.
• It’s versatile and can be adapted to your taste preferences.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets this Chicken Divan apart is its perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. Unlike some versions that can be bland, this recipe uses a touch of curry powder in the sauce, giving it a subtle but delightful warmth and complexity. We also use a combination of cheddar and parmesan cheese for the perfect gooey and nutty flavor.

Ingredient List

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (this gives it the signature creamy texture!)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup cooked broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, milk, curry powder, and black pepper. Mix well until smooth.
3. Gently stir in the shredded cooked chicken and cooked broccoli florets.
4. Pour the chicken and broccoli mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle the cheddar and parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
6. In a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers and melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture over the cheese.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
8. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Feel free to add a few extra touches to personalize your Chicken Divan!

• Extra Cheese: Add a layer of shredded mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
• Crunchy Onions: Sprinkle some fried onions on top for added flavor and crunch before baking.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcook the broccoli; it should be tender-crisp. If using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out excess water.
• For best results, shred your cooked chicken instead of dicing it. It blends better with the creamy sauce.
• Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a blend would be delicious.
• If you want a crispier topping, you can broil the casserole for the last 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.
• Use a good quality curry powder for the best flavor. Freshly ground spices can make a big difference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use different vegetables?
  

  Absolutely! Cauliflower, peas, or a mix of your favorite vegetables would work well in this recipe.

• Can I make this ahead of time?
  

  Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake it as directed when ready to serve.

• Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
  

  Yes, just blanch the fresh broccoli for a few minutes until it is tender-crisp before adding it to the mixture. Be sure to let it drain well so you don’t get excess liquid in the casserole.

• Can I freeze leftovers?
  

  Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.

• Can I use a different type of cracker for the topping?
  

  Yes, you can use other buttery crackers or even breadcrumbs, or panko for a different texture.

Variations and Customization Options

Get creative and customize your Chicken Divan!

• Mushroom Divan: Add sliced sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
• Ham Divan: Swap out the chicken for cooked ham for a different twist.
• Low Carb Divan: Substitute cauliflower rice for the broccoli, use almond flour for the topping, and use a low carb friendly brand of crackers.
• Herby Divan: Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Divan is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal. For a lighter option, a side of steamed asparagus or green beans would be perfect.

Conclusion

This Chicken Divan recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! It’s easy, comforting, and full of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So, go ahead and give it a try, and don’t forget to share your photos with us! Subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes like this!