Description
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Divan
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed or shredded
3 cups broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (optional)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
2 tbsp butter, melted (for breadcrumbs)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Cooked rice or pasta (for serving)
Directions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Arrange the steamed broccoli evenly in the baking dish. Layer the cooked chicken on top.
In a bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Spread the mixture evenly over the chicken and broccoli.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top.
Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese layer.
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Serve warm over rice or pasta and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 450 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect casserole every time. First, ensure your broccoli is steamed until just tender-crisp to avoid mushiness. Shred or cube your cooked chicken; rotisserie chicken works excellently here. In a separate bowl, thoroughly combine the soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, and seasonings until completely smooth. When layering, press the chicken and broccoli down slightly so the sauce seeps in. For the topping, ensure the butter is fully mixed with the breadcrumbs for even browning. Bake on the middle rack and check at the 25-minute mark for a golden, bubbly finish.
Serving Suggestions
While delicious over simple rice or pasta, this casserole pairs wonderfully with a light, crisp side to balance its richness. Consider a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, roasted asparagus, or garlic breadsticks. For a low-carb option, serve it alongside cauliflower rice. It also makes excellent leftovers for lunch the next day.
How-to Summary
In summary: Prepare a baking dish and preheat your oven. Layer cooked broccoli and chicken. Mix the creamy sauce ingredients and spread them over the layers. Top with cheese, then buttered breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and bubbly, then serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Chicken Divan ahead of time? Yes, assemble the casserole (minus the breadcrumb topping), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking, and you may need to add 5-10 minutes to the bake time.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup? You can use cream of mushroom or celery soup. For a homemade version, make a simple white sauce (a roux with milk) and add chicken bouillon for flavor.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover the dish with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Can I use frozen broccoli? Absolutely. Thaw and drain it very well, pressing out excess water with paper towels to prevent a soggy casserole.
Is there a lighter version of this recipe? You can use low-fat soup, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, light mayonnaise, and reduce the cheese amount. The flavor will be slightly different but still tasty.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using raw broccoli, as it won’t cook through and will release too much water. Do not skip draining canned soup if there’s liquid at the top, as extra moisture can make the dish runny. Overmixing the sauce after adding the cheese can lead to a greasy texture. Finally, do not overbake, as the sauce can break and the chicken can dry out.
Conclusion
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Divan is the quintessential comfort food dish, combining simplicity with deeply satisfying flavors. It’s a versatile recipe that forgives substitutions and is guaranteed to please a crowd. By following this enhanced guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a creamy, golden-topped dinner that becomes a reliable favorite in your weekly rotation. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!