Chicken Divan is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious, creamy sauce. Topped with golden, buttery breadcrumbs and melted cheese, this dish delivers rich flavors and a satisfying crunch in every bite. It’s a simple yet indulgent meal that the whole family will love.
This dish is perfect for busy nights when you need a hearty and delicious meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a gathering, Chicken Divan is sure to impress. Serve it with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete and wholesome meal.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (about 2 medium chicken breasts)
- 2 cups broccoli florets, cooked and drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1 tbsp butter, melted
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Layer the cooked chicken at the bottom of the casserole dish, then add the broccoli on top.
- Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the chicken and broccoli, spreading it out.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 380 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
Chicken Divan: A Classic Comfort Dish for Every Occasion
Chicken Divan is a timeless casserole that has been a family favorite for decades. This creamy, cheesy dish combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich, flavorful sauce, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The balance of textures juicy chicken, soft broccoli, and a crispy, golden topping creates a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.
Whether you are new to cooking or an experienced home chef, Chicken Divan is a simple yet delicious recipe that can be prepared with minimal effort. Its versatility allows you to customize it to your taste while keeping the core flavors intact. In this article, we’ll explore the history of Chicken Divan, why it remains a popular dish, different variations, serving suggestions, and tips to make it even better.
A Brief History of Chicken Divan
Chicken Divan has an interesting origin that dates back to the early 20th century. The dish was first created at the Divan Parisien Restaurant in the Chatham Hotel in New York City. The chef wanted to create an elegant yet comforting dish that showcased the combination of chicken, broccoli, and a creamy Mornay sauce (a béchamel sauce with cheese). Over time, home cooks simplified the recipe by replacing the Mornay sauce with canned soup and mayonnaise, making it more accessible for everyday cooking.
Since its creation, Chicken Divan has become a staple in American households. Its popularity grew during the 1950s and 1960s, as casseroles became a go to meal for busy families. The dish has continued to evolve, with modern adaptations incorporating various cheeses, seasonings, and toppings to enhance its flavor.
Why Chicken Divan is a Household Favorite
There are many reasons why Chicken Divan remains a beloved dish across generations:
1. Easy to Make
One of the biggest advantages of Chicken Divan is its simplicity. The recipe requires only a few basic ingredients, most of which are pantry staples. With minimal preparation, you can have a delicious and wholesome meal ready in under an hour.
2. Comforting and Satisfying
The combination of creamy sauce, melted cheese, and tender chicken makes Chicken Divan the ultimate comfort food. It’s a dish that brings warmth and nostalgia, perfect for cold nights or when you need a hearty meal to lift your spirits.
3. Family-Friendly
Chicken Divan is a great dish for families because it appeals to both kids and adults. The creamy sauce and cheesy topping make it an excellent way to encourage picky eaters to enjoy their vegetables, especially broccoli.
4. Versatile and Customizable
This dish is highly adaptable. Whether you want to make it healthier, add a bit of spice, or incorporate different vegetables, Chicken Divan can be modified to suit your dietary preferences.
Variations and Customizations
While the traditional Chicken Divan recipe is delicious on its own, there are many ways to put a personal twist on it. Here are some variations you might want to try:
1. Protein Swaps
- Instead of chicken, try using turkey, ham, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Rotisserie chicken can be used for an easy shortcut, adding extra flavor without additional prep.
2. Sauce Enhancements
- Replace canned soup with a homemade béchamel sauce for a richer, fresher taste.
- Mix in Dijon mustard or Worcestershire sauce to enhance the depth of flavor.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier alternative.
3. Cheese Options
- While cheddar is commonly used, you can experiment with Gruyère, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for a different cheese profile.
- A sprinkle of Parmesan on top before baking adds a delightful crispy texture.
4. Adding Extra Vegetables
- Broccoli is the classic choice, but you can also include mushrooms, bell peppers, peas, or spinach for additional nutrients.
- Roasted or sautéed vegetables can bring extra depth and sweetness to the dish.
5. Crunchy Topping Alternatives
- Instead of traditional breadcrumbs, try crushed crackers, cornflakes, or even slivered almonds for a different texture.
- A mix of panko breadcrumbs and melted butter creates a crispier topping.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Divan is a well rounded dish, but it pairs beautifully with various sides. Here are some great accompaniments to serve with it:
1. Rice or Pasta
- White or brown rice absorbs the creamy sauce and makes for a filling meal.
- Egg noodles or penne pasta work well if you prefer a pasta based side.
2. Fresh Salad
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the casserole.
- A Caesar salad adds a delicious, garlicky contrast to the dish.
3. Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls
- Warm, crusty bread is perfect for scooping up the extra sauce.
- Homemade dinner rolls add a soft, buttery touch to the meal.
4. Roasted or Steamed Vegetables
- If you want to add more veggies to your plate, roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus complement the flavors of Chicken Divan.
Tips for Making the Perfect Chicken Divan
To ensure your Chicken Divan turns out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:
1. Use High-Quality Ingredients
- Freshly cooked chicken and broccoli will always taste better than pre packaged alternatives.
- Opt for sharp cheddar cheese for a more pronounced cheesy flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook the Broccoli
- Since the broccoli will cook further in the oven, blanch or steam it just until it’s bright green and slightly tender. Overcooking can make it mushy.
3. Balance the Sauce
- If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to adjust the consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before assembling the casserole to ensure a well balanced flavor.
4. Make it Ahead of Time
- Chicken Divan can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
- You can also freeze it for up to three months just thaw overnight before baking.
Conclusion:
Chicken Divan is a classic dish that has stood the test of time for good reason. Its creamy, cheesy goodness, combined with the heartiness of chicken and broccoli, makes it a go to comfort meal for many families. The dish is easy to prepare, highly customizable, and pairs well with a variety of sides, making it a perfect addition to any meal plan.
Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with different ingredients, Chicken Divan is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to the table. So the next time you’re looking for a cozy, crowd pleasing meal, give Chicken Divan a try you won’t be disappointed!