If you’re craving a comforting, creamy classic that’s just bursting with flavor, you’ve got to try this Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy tender chicken and crisp broccoli smothered in a luscious cheese sauce that melts perfectly during baking. This dish brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels both nostalgic and wonderfully satisfying, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe lies in the simplicity and freshness of its ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in balancing creaminess, texture, and a touch of zest that keeps every bite exciting.
- 1 pound fresh broccoli: Chop into bite-sized pieces to maintain a fresh crunch and vibrant green color.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup: The creamy base that ties all the flavors together with comfort and richness.
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided: Adds a mild, creamy meltiness with a gooey texture perfect for topping and mixing.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Provides a sharp, savory contrast that deepens the overall flavor of the casserole.
- â…“ cup milk: Helps smooth out the sauce for a perfect consistency without overpowering other tastes.
- â…“ cup sour cream: Brings a subtle tang that brightens the dish and adds a silky texture.
- 1 teaspoon whole grain mustard: Introduces a gentle kick and complexity that lifts the creamy sauce.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: A flavorful background note that pairs beautifully with cheese and chicken.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Enhances all the other flavors with a mild heat and spice.
- 2 ½ cups cubed cooked chicken: The hearty protein star of the casserole, tender and ready to soak up flavor.
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs: Adds a golden, crunchy topping that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy filling.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Used to bind the breadcrumbs and give them a rich, toasty finish.
How to Make Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Steam Broccoli
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly greasing an 8×8-inch casserole dish so the casserole won’t stick. Steam the broccoli just until it’s tender-crisp—this keeps it bright green and ensures it won’t get mushy when baked. Drain the broccoli well to avoid excess water in your casserole.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, half of the Monterey Jack cheese, cheddar cheese, milk, sour cream, whole grain mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper. This sauce combines creamy, tangy, and savory notes that will coat every piece of chicken and broccoli beautifully.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Gently fold the steamed broccoli and the cubed cooked chicken into the sauce, making sure all the pieces are evenly coated without mashing the broccoli. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor and the right balance of textures.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the mixture into your prepared casserole dish and sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top for a rich, cheesy crust. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter and scatter this over the entire casserole. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the breadcrumb topping is a gorgeous golden brown.
How to Serve Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh pop, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or chives over the hot casserole. A light dusting of paprika also adds color and a mild smoky flavor that complements the creamy cheese sauce impressively.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides like steamed rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or even egg noodles. Any of these will soak up the savory sauce and round out the meal effortlessly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve the casserole in individual ramekins right out of the oven, garnished with a sprig of thyme. You can also top with crushed toasted almonds or crispy fried onions for added texture and a touch of elegance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen a bit overnight, making the next day’s meal just as satisfying.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole after baking or before. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for even reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes until heated through and bubbly again. To keep the breadcrumb topping crisp, you can add a little extra butter before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works in a pinch! Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid extra water in the casserole, which can make it soggy.
What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?
Cooked, leftover chicken breasts or rotisserie chicken both work wonderfully. Using tender, shredded or cubed cooked chicken ensures the casserole stays moist and flavorful.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Definitely. You can substitute the cheeses with dairy-free alternatives and use coconut milk or another non-dairy milk in place of regular milk. Just pick a dairy-free sour cream substitute to maintain the creamy texture.
Is there a vegetarian version of Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe?
Yes! Simply swap the chicken for extra broccoli or another hearty vegetable like cauliflower or mushrooms. Use vegetable soup instead of cream of chicken soup for a fully vegetarian dish.
How can I make the casserole topping extra crispy?
Mixing the breadcrumbs with melted butter helps, but for even more crunch, try adding some grated Parmesan to the topping before baking. Also, a quick broil at the end of baking can give it that perfect golden crisp.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s easy enough for busy weeknights, yet special enough to serve whenever you want to impress family or friends. Dive into this creamy, cheesy, chicken-filled delight and see how a few simple ingredients can make your dinner instantly memorable. You’re going to love it!
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Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Chicken Divan Casserole is a comforting baked dish that combines tender steamed broccoli, succulent cooked chicken, and a creamy cheese sauce made with cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Topped with buttery breadcrumbs for a crispy finish, this casserole is perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep, providing a delicious balance of flavors and textures in about 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 pound fresh broccoli, chopped into bite-sized pieces
Cheese and Dairy
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- â…“ cup milk
- â…“ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Pantry
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon whole grain mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
Protein
- 2 ½ cups cubed cooked chicken
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Steam Broccoli: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 2-quart (8×8-inch) casserole dish to prevent sticking. Boil a pot of water and cook the broccoli until it becomes tender-crisp. Drain the broccoli thoroughly to remove any excess water.
- Make Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, ½ cup of Monterey Jack cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, sour cream, whole grain mustard, garlic powder, and ground black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Gently fold in the steamed broccoli and cubed cooked chicken into the cheese sauce mixture, making sure everything is evenly coated without breaking up the broccoli too much.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the broccoli and chicken mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese over the top. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter, then evenly sprinkle this mixture over the casserole to create a golden, crispy topping. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the breadcrumb topping turns golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Serve the Chicken Divan casserole hot, either on its own or over a bed of rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
Notes
- Ensure broccoli is well-drained before mixing to avoid a watery casserole.
- You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
- For a lower-fat version, use low-fat cheese and sour cream.
- Breadcrumb topping adds a nice texture; for gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully.
