Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe

Are you looking for a comforting, creamy, and cheesy dish that the whole family will love? Look no further than this classic Broccoli Chicken Divan recipe! This hearty casserole combines tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and a rich sauce topped with a layer of bubbly, golden cheese. It’s an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know to make this delicious dish, including ingredients, substitutions, step-by-step cooking instructions, and tips for serving and presentation!

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What is Broccoli Chicken Divan?

Broccoli Chicken Divan is a creamy casserole that has been a staple in American homes for decades. Originally created at the Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York City in the early 20th century, this dish became popular for its blend of tender chicken, broccoli, and creamy Mornay (cheese) sauce. Today, variations of Chicken Divan have been adapted to make it easier and quicker to prepare, often using condensed soups and shortcuts that make it a go-to meal for busy households.

Ingredients List for Broccoli Chicken Divan

To make this classic recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (you can use leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken)
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (you can also use frozen broccoli, thawed and drained)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup mayonnaise or sour cream
• ½ cup milk (whole or 2% for a richer sauce)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for the sauce, plus more for topping)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crispy topping)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, to mix with breadcrumbs for the topping)

Ingredients List for Sauce and Topping

If you want to take the dish up a notch and make the sauce from scratch instead of using condensed soup, you can create a simple white sauce with:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups milk (whole milk or half-and-half for creaminess)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ teaspoon ground mustard powder (optional for added depth)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the topping, a crunchy layer of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers like Ritz adds texture to the dish.

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Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about Broccoli Chicken Divan is how versatile it is. Here are some great substitution and variation ideas:

• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for cauliflower, tofu, or a meat substitute like tempeh or soy-based chicken.
• Low-Carb: Instead of breadcrumbs or crackers for the topping, try crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly option.
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cream substitute like coconut milk or almond milk, and opt for dairy-free cheese.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free condensed soup or make a homemade gluten-free sauce. Also, ensure the breadcrumbs or crackers used for topping are gluten-free.
• Add More Veggies: You can mix in other vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or peas to up the nutrient content.
• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If your chicken is not already cooked, boil, roast, or pan-fry it, then shred or cube it. Steam or blanch the broccoli for about 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender, then drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, milk, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth. If you’re making a homemade sauce, melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in the flour, and slowly add the milk. Cook until thickened, then stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
3. Assemble the Casserole: In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer the cooked broccoli and chicken. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the top, making sure all the chicken and broccoli are coated.
4. Add the Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole. If you’re using breadcrumbs, mix them with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese for added crunch.
5. Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

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How to Cook Broccoli Chicken Divan: A Step-by-Step Guide

• Step 1: Cook the Chicken – Use leftover roasted chicken or quickly cook chicken breasts or thighs by boiling or pan-frying them.
• Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli – Steam the broccoli until it's crisp-tender; this helps retain its bright green color and prevents it from becoming mushy.
• Step 3: Make the Sauce – If you're short on time, the condensed cream of chicken soup works well, but a homemade cheese sauce can elevate the dish.
• Step 4: Layer Ingredients – Ensure even layering of chicken and broccoli for uniform cooking and flavor distribution.
• Step 5: Add Cheese and Topping – Cheese on top will melt beautifully, while breadcrumbs or crackers will give it that satisfying crunch.
• Step 6: Bake to Perfection – Let the casserole bake until it’s bubbly, golden, and irresistible!

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Broccoli: Steaming the broccoli for too long will make it mushy in the casserole. You want it to still have a bit of bite when it goes into the oven.
• Using Dry Chicken: If your chicken is too dry before it goes into the casserole, it won’t absorb the creamy sauce as well. Use moist, tender chicken for the best results.
• Skipping the Topping: The cheese and breadcrumb topping adds a crucial layer of flavor and texture. Don’t skip it!
• Overbaking the Casserole: Be mindful of your baking time. Overbaking can cause the cheese to burn and the casserole to dry out.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

The beauty of Broccoli Chicken Divan is that it’s both homey and elegant. Here’s how you can make it shine on your dinner table:

• Serve with Sides: This dish pairs perfectly with simple sides like steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles to soak up the creamy sauce. A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables will add color and balance to the meal.
• Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, dill, or chives will add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
• Family-Style: Serve it straight from the baking dish at the table, and let everyone dig in.

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Presentation Ideas for Broccoli Chicken Divan

• Rustic Elegance: Use a cast-iron skillet or a stoneware baking dish for a rustic, hearty look.
• Individual Portions: If you're entertaining, consider serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a more refined presentation.
• Color Contrast: Garnish with fresh herbs or serve alongside a bright, colorful salad to add visual appeal.

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Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature first, then pop it in the oven.
• Freezing Instructions: Broccoli Chicken Divan freezes well. Assemble the casserole, but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.
• Leftover Tip: This casserole reheats beautifully. Simply cover and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before using it in the casserole.

2. Can I substitute the chicken for another protein?
Definitely! You can use turkey, ham, or even shrimp as an alternative to chicken. You can also omit the meat entirely for a vegetarian version.

3. How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

4. Can I make Broccoli Chicken Divan ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

5. What can I serve with Broccoli Chicken Divan?
It pairs well with a side of rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. A crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables also complement this dish nicely.

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Conclusion

Broccoli Chicken Divan is a beloved casserole dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it at a family gathering, its combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and crisp-tender broccoli is sure to please. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this classic dish is a must-try! Be sure to experiment with the substitutions and variations to make it your own.

Now, go ahead and give this recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you!

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