Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe

Introduction

Broccoli Chicken Divan is a comforting casserole that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a wholesome family dinner, offering both flavor and nutrition in every bite.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts (about 2 pounds or 3 cups cooked chicken), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 Tablespoon olive oil (if using raw chicken breasts)
• 1 ½-2 pounds broccoli, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
• 10 ½ ounces condensed cream of mushroom soup (1 can, or cream of chicken soup)
• ⅔ cup sour cream
• ½ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon each garlic powder, onion powder, dry mustard powder, and pepper
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• 3 Tablespoons Panko bread crumbs (or buttery crackers like Ritz)
• 1 Tablespoon melted butter

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or a 3-quart casserole dish.
2. Step 2: If using raw chicken breasts, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until fully cooked, about 10 minutes. Set aside.
3. Step 3: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain thoroughly and spread the broccoli evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
4. Step 4: In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, condensed soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, dry mustard powder, pepper, and salt. Stir in the cooked chicken, then spread the mixture evenly over the broccoli in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
5. Step 5: In a small bowl, mix the bread crumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
6. Step 6: Bake uncovered for 20-22 minutes until the bread crumbs are lightly browned and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
7. Step 7: Serve warm over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes as preferred.

Tips & Variations

• For added richness, try using a mix of cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soup.
• Swap broccoli for cauliflower if preferred, or use a mix of both for variety.
• Adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the broccoli before layering can brighten the flavors.
• Use gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make this dish gluten-free.
• Leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken works well to save time.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until hot and bubbly. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through heating for even warmth.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate, then bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Frozen broccoli can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture that could make the casserole watery.