The aroma of a comforting Chicken Divan wafting through the house is like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine tender chicken enveloped in a creamy sauce, topped with crispy breadcrumbs and melted cheese—pure culinary bliss! It’s the kind of dish that makes your taste buds do a little happy dance while your heart sings praises to the heavens. Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup.
I remember the first time I made Chicken Divan for my family. My brother’s eyes lit up like it was Christmas morning, and my mom proclaimed it her new favorite. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Tomato Cheddar Chicken Pot Pie Get ready for an explosion of flavor that will leave everyone begging for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Divan recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to impress anyone at your table
- Preparing this dish is surprisingly simple, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions
- The vibrant colors from the broccoli and golden cheese make it visually appealing, ensuring it stands out on any dinner spread
- Best of all, it’s versatile—you can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have at home
I once whipped up this Chicken Divan for a potluck, and let me tell you—everyone came back for more! It was a hit!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
- Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets; they add color and nutrition to your dish
- Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for that rich flavor that melts beautifully on top
- Mayonnaise: A creamy base that binds everything together; opt for full-fat mayonnaise for extra richness
- Garlic Powder: Adds depth without overpowering; it’s one of my secret weapons in this recipe
- Breadcrumbs: For that perfect crunchy topping; use panko for extra texture
For the Sauce:
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while keeping things flavorful
- Lemon Juice: A splash brightens up the whole dish; fresh juice is always best!
- Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness; I prefer smoked paprika here to elevate flavors
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat and Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, boil water and cook chicken breasts until no longer pink inside (about 15-20 minutes). Drain and let cool before shredding into bite-sized pieces.
Sauté the Broccoli: While chicken cools, steam broccoli florets in boiling water for about 3-4 minutes until bright green but still crunchy. Drain and set aside.
Create the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, chicken broth, lemon juice, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until smooth; this will be your creamy goodness! For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken recipe.
Combine Ingredients: In your greased baking dish, layer shredded chicken and steamed broccoli evenly. Pour sauce over the top ensuring everything gets nice and coated.
Topping Time: Sprinkle cheddar cheese generously over the mixture followed by an even layer of breadcrumbs. Bake uncovered in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
And there you have it! A delightful Chicken Divan that’ll make you wonder why you didn’t try this sooner! Each bite is an adventure filled with creamy goodness balanced by crunchy toppings—a true crowd-pleaser! Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken recipe.
Now grab your forks and dig in! Enjoy every cheesy morsel with loved ones around your table.
You Must Know
- Chicken Divan is a creamy, comforting dish that pleases everyone at the table
- The blend of tender chicken, broccoli, and a rich sauce makes it irresistible
- Serve it over rice or with crusty bread for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing the chicken until golden brown, then cook the broccoli while preparing your creamy sauce to save time and ensure everything finishes simultaneously.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out broccoli for green beans or add some cheese on top for an extra cheesy delight. Personalize it with your favorite spices to truly make it your own.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, bake at 350°F until warmed through, preserving that delicious creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor; they elevate the dish significantly
- Keep an eye on your chicken to avoid overcooking, which can lead to dryness
- Pairing this dish with a light salad adds freshness and balance
Cooking Chicken Divan always reminds me of family get-togethers where laughter filled the air, and seconds were always requested. It’s a heartwarming classic that brings everyone together.
FAQ
What is Chicken Divan?
Chicken Divan is a creamy casserole made with chicken, broccoli, and cheese. Sticky Ginger Soy Chicken with Broccoli.
Can I make Chicken Divan ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
What can I serve with Chicken Divan?
For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Tenders With Garlic Parmesan recipe.
It pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or even crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Chicken Divan
Chicken Divan is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy sauce baked to golden perfection. This dish not only warms your heart but also delights your taste buds with its rich flavors and textures. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3 cups boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cooked and shredded)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (steamed)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Boil water and cook chicken breasts until no longer pink (15-20 minutes). Drain, cool, and shred.
- Steam broccoli in boiling water for about 3-4 minutes until bright green. Drain.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, chicken broth, lemon juice, garlic powder, and paprika until smooth.
- Layer shredded chicken and steamed broccoli in the baking dish; pour sauce over evenly.
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs on top. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 365
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
