Chicken Divan has always been the ultimate comfort food in my household, serving as a reliable bridge between fancy dinner party fare and a cozy weeknight staple. I remember the first time I encountered this dish at a family reunion; the aroma of bubbly cheese and warm curry powder filled the air, instantly drawing everyone to the kitchen. It was my Aunt Martha’s signature dish, and she guarded the recipe like a state secret for years. Eventually, she passed it down to me, and through trial and error, I have refined it into the masterpiece it is today. This version of Chicken Divan balances the nostalgic flavors of the mid-20th century with fresh, modern techniques to ensure every bite is perfectly seasoned and never soggy. Whether you are feeding a hungry family or looking for a dish that impresses at a potluck, this casserole delivers on every front.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
- Timeless Comfort: The combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a velvety sauce provides a sense of nostalgia that few other dishes can match.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors: Unlike some bland casseroles, this Chicken Divan uses a hint of curry powder and lemon juice to brighten the rich cream sauce.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily assemble the entire dish a day in advance, making it the perfect solution for busy schedules.
- Crowd Pleaser: Its creamy texture and cheesy topping are universally loved by both children and adults alike.
Key Ingredient Notes
To make the best Chicken Divan, the quality of your ingredients matters. First and foremost, the chicken needs to be flavorful and tender. I highly recommend using a shredded chicken recipe that is well-seasoned to provide a solid base for the casserole. You can use poached breasts or even a store-bought rotisserie chicken if you are short on time. Second, the broccoli should be fresh if possible. While frozen works in a pinch, fresh florets that are lightly steamed maintain a better bite and won't turn to mush during the baking process. Finally, the sauce is the soul of this dish. We use a blend of cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, and sour cream. To elevate the sauce, I always add a splash of homemade chicken stock to thin it out to the perfect consistency while adding deep, savory notes.
Step-by-Step Guide with Pro Tips
Preparation is key when putting together a Chicken Divan. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). You will want to lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. I personally prefer using Basics Glass Food Storage containers if I'm making a smaller batch to freeze, but a standard ceramic baker works beautifully for a family dinner.
First, steam your broccoli florets for just 3-4 minutes. They should be bright green and slightly tender but still have a firm snap. Lay the broccoli in an even layer at the bottom of your prepared dish. Top the broccoli with your cooked, shredded chicken. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, and curry powder. The curry powder is optional for some, but in a traditional Chicken Divan, it provides that subtle, exotic warmth that defines the dish.
Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken and broccoli. Use a spatula to ensure it seeps down into the layers. Sprinkle a generous amount of sharp cheddar cheese over the top. For the final touch, mix melted butter with Panko breadcrumbs and scatter them over the cheese. This creates a crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges are bubbling and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
Variations & Serving Suggestions
While the classic Chicken Divan is hard to beat, there are several ways to switch it up. For a lower-carb version, you can omit the breadcrumbs and use crushed pork rinds or extra cheese for the topping. If you want a more substantial meal, serve the casserole over a bed of fluffy white rice, quinoa, or even egg noodles. The sauce acts as a delicious gravy for whatever starch you choose. You can also swap the broccoli for cauliflower or a mix of both for a different nutritional profile. For a bit of a kick, try adding a dash of hot sauce or swapping the cheddar for pepper jack cheese.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Cholesterol | 95 mg |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
Conclusion
Chicken Divan remains a quintessential American classic for a reason. Its layers of texture and rich, savory sauce make it a dish that people come back to time and time again. By using fresh broccoli and a well-seasoned chicken base, you elevate this from a simple pantry meal to a high-quality dinner. Give this recipe a try tonight, and don't be surprised if it becomes a permanent fixture in your weekly meal rotation!
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for Chicken Divan?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. However, make sure to thaw it and drain all excess water completely before adding it to the casserole to prevent the sauce from becoming watery.
Can Chicken Divan be frozen?
Absolutely! You can freeze Chicken Divan either before or after baking. If freezing before, wait to add the breadcrumb topping until you are ready to bake. Thaw overnight in the fridge before heating.
What is the origin of Chicken Divan?
Chicken Divan originated at the Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York City's Chatham Hotel in the early 20th century, where it was served as a signature specialty.
Classic Creamy Chicken Divan
A comforting and nostalgic casserole featuring tender chicken and broccoli in a creamy curry-infused sauce, topped with melted cheese and crispy breadcrumbs.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
1 lb fresh broccoli florets, lightly steamed
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp curry powder
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Place the steamed broccoli florets in an even layer at the bottom of the dish, followed by the cooked chicken pieces on top.
Step 3: In a bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, and curry powder until smooth and combined.
Step 4: Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken and broccoli layers, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese across the top.
Step 5: Mix the melted butter with the Panko breadcrumbs and sprinkle over the cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Notes
For best results, do not over-steam the broccoli as it will soften further in the oven. Use sharp cheddar for the most flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes & Sides
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
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