Get ready to dive into a dish that’s pure comfort in a casserole: Creamy Broccoli Chicken Divan. This timeless recipe combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce, all topped with a crispy, golden breadcrumb crust. It’s a dish that’s been loved for generations, perfect for family dinners and potlucks alike.
The magic of Chicken Divan lies in its simplicity and flavor. Imagine succulent pieces of chicken and vibrant broccoli florets, enveloped in a luscious, velvety sauce made from cream, cheese, and a hint of sherry. As it bakes, the casserole becomes a symphony of textures and tastes, with the creamy filling bubbling beneath a crunchy, cheesy topping. The aroma that fills your kitchen is nothing short of heavenly.
What makes this dish truly special is its versatility and ease of preparation. It’s a fantastic way to use leftover chicken or turkey, and it’s easily adaptable to suit your family’s tastes. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or bringing it to a gathering, this Broccoli Chicken Divan is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone to the table.
Broccoli Chicken Divan: A Todd Wilbur-Inspired Summary
Looking for a comforting casserole that’s both easy and delicious? This Broccoli Chicken Divan is the answer. It combines tender chicken and fresh broccoli in a rich, creamy sauce, topped with a crispy, golden breadcrumb crust. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy.
Why not take your casserole game to the next level? With its creamy, cheesy sauce and crunchy topping, this Broccoli Chicken Divan offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Easy to prepare and always a hit, it’s a must-try for any home cook.
Family Favorite: An Exciting Story
My husband and our little family absolutely adore this Broccoli Chicken Divan. One particularly busy weeknight, I decided to make something quick yet comforting. As the casserole baked, the house filled with a warm, inviting aroma that drew everyone to the kitchen. The first bite was met with smiles and sighs of satisfaction – the tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy sauce were a perfect combination. Since then, this dish has become our go-to for busy nights and cozy family dinners, bringing comfort and joy to our table every time.
Why This Broccoli Chicken Divan?
Tips
- Cheese: Try using a blend of cheeses like Gruyere or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Broccoli: Frozen broccoli can be used in place of fresh; just thaw and drain well.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs can be used for extra crunch.
Substitutions and Variations
- Protein: Substitute chicken with turkey or ham.
- Vegetables: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas for extra veggies.
- Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or paprika for additional flavor.
Make a Healthier Version
- Low Carb: Use a low-carb thickener like almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Low Fat: Substitute milk with low-fat milk and use reduced-fat cheese and sour cream.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
And there you have it! Don’t forget to let us know how your dish turns out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken? Yes, rotisserie chicken works great and saves time.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, assemble the casserole without the breadcrumb topping, freeze, and add the topping before baking.
What can I serve with this dish? Serve with a simple green salad or garlic bread.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian? Yes, substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein or additional vegetables.
Can I prepare this in advance? Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate. Add the breadcrumb topping just before baking.
Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe
Course: All Recipes, Dinner Recipe, Lunch Recipe, Weight watchers4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcal1
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Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
4 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp dry sherry (optional)
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook Broccoli: In a large pot of boiling water, blanch the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
- Make Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, sherry (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, arrange the broccoli and chicken evenly. Pour the creamy sauce over the top, spreading it out to cover the ingredients completely.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm.
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