Introduction
This creamy chicken divan casserole is a true family favorite, known for its comforting flavors and easy preparation. It combines tender chicken and fresh broccoli in a rich, velvety sauce, all topped with a golden, buttery cracker crust. Originating from the Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York City, this classic dish has become a beloved staple in homes everywhere. Serve it alongside rice or mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Divan Casserole
You’ll adore this Chicken Divan Casserole because it’s designed for busy parents and beginner cooks alike. It simplifies weeknight meals without sacrificing incredible taste. This recipe brings together simple ingredients for a genuinely satisfying result.
- Quick Prep: Get this comforting dish into the oven with minimal fuss.
- Family-Friendly: A universally loved meal that even picky eaters enjoy.
- Creamy Goodness: Enjoy a rich, comforting cream sauce with tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli.
- Golden Topping: The buttery Ritz cracker topping adds an irresistible crunch.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance for stress-free dinners.
Ingredients
For this delicious chicken divan casserole, you will need a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients. These measurements are for approximately 6 servings.
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 2 lbs. Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (see notes)
- Salt/Pepper (to taste)
- 1 yellow onion (diced)
- 1 stick celery (diced)
- 4 cups broccoli florets (about ½ lb.)
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 10.5 oz. cream of chicken soup
- 2/3 cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- 2 ½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers (or panko breadcrumbs)
Notes & Substitutions
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets provide the best texture. If using frozen, thaw them completely and pat them very dry before adding to the recipe.
- Cream Sauce: For a slightly different tang, feel free to substitute mayonnaise for half or all of the sour cream.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: Canned soup is convenient, but you can certainly use homemade cream of chicken soup for more control over ingredients.
- Topping: While Ritz crackers offer a classic buttery crunch, panko breadcrumbs are a fantastic, lighter alternative.
- Seasoning: Adjust salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder to suit your family’s preferences.
Equipment
You only need basic kitchen tools to make this wonderful chicken divan casserole. Gather these before you start cooking for a smooth process.
- Large Dutch oven or a large, deep pot
- 9×13 inch casserole dish
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
Instructions
Preparing a delicious chicken divan casserole is simple with these step-by-step instructions. You’ll have a comforting meal ready in under an hour.
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish and set it aside.
Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. Sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper to taste. This initial seasoning helps build the flavor.
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large Dutch oven or a deep pot over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken, diced yellow onion, and diced celery to the pot. Toss these ingredients to ensure they are well coated in the butter. Sauté for about 3 minutes, or until the chicken is about halfway cooked through and the onions begin to soften.
Next, add the 4 cups of broccoli florets and 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot. Continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is completely cooked through and the broccoli is crisp-tender. Remove the pot from the heat once everything is cooked.
In the pot with the chicken and broccoli mixture, add the 10.5 oz can of cream of chicken soup, 2/3 cup sour cream, and ½ cup milk. Stir in the ½ teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder. Finally, add half of the 2 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until the sauce is well combined and coats all the ingredients evenly.
Transfer this creamy chicken and broccoli mixture into your lightly greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly. Top the casserole with the remaining half of the shredded cheddar cheese, creating a generous layer of cheesy goodness.
Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated 350-degree oven for 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to heat through.
While the casserole bakes, prepare the topping. In a small bowl, combine the ½ cup of crushed Ritz crackers with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Mix them together until the cracker crumbs are evenly coated.
After 20 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven. Increase the oven temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Uncover the casserole and sprinkle the buttery Ritz cracker topping evenly over the top.
Return the uncovered casserole to the 400-degree oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure the topping turns a beautiful golden brown and becomes wonderfully crisp.
Once the chicken divan casserole is golden and bubbly, remove it from the oven. Let it sit and rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
Serve this hearty chicken divan casserole hot. It pairs wonderfully over fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or flaky biscuits for a complete and satisfying family meal.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Make your chicken divan casserole even easier and more delicious with these expert tips. Troubleshooting common issues ensures a perfect outcome every time.
- Pre-Cooked Chicken: If using pre-cooked chicken, simply soften the diced onions, celery, and broccoli first. Then, stir in the cooked chicken with the sauce ingredients.
- No Sauté Option: For a true one-dish experience, combine raw chicken pieces, fresh broccoli, and sauce ingredients directly in the casserole dish. Bake covered for an extended time (around 45-50 minutes) before adding the topping.
- Frozen Broccoli: Always thaw frozen broccoli completely and pat it very dry with paper towels. This prevents excess moisture from making your casserole watery. Sautéing is optional but can improve texture.
- Richness: For the creamiest results, opt for full-fat sour cream and whole milk. These contribute to a decadent sauce texture.
- Cheesy Flavor: Shred your own cheddar cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect how smoothly they melt.
- Prevent Soggy Topping: Add the crushed cracker topping only right before the final uncovered bake. This ensures it stays crisp and golden.
Serving Suggestions, Storage & Variations
Enjoying your chicken divan casserole is just the beginning. Discover perfect pairings, how to store leftovers, and exciting ways to customize this classic dish.
- Serving: This hearty casserole is excellent served over fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or tender egg noodles. For a lighter meal, pair it with a simple green salad or warm crusty bread. Flaky biscuits also make a great accompaniment.
- Make Ahead: To save time on busy days, assemble the entire chicken divan casserole (without the cracker topping) up to 2 days in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add about 15 minutes to the initial covered baking time. Add the cracker topping for the final bake as usual.
- Storage: Store any leftover chicken divan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes beautifully. After baking and cooling completely, wrap the entire casserole dish (if freezer-safe) or individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.
- Variations: Experiment with adding sliced fresh mushrooms to the sauté step for extra earthiness. Swap cheddar cheese for Swiss cheese or a blend of cheddar and Parmesan for a different flavor profile. You can also try other types of crackers or crushed cornflakes for the topping.
Nutrition
Here is an estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this chicken divan casserole. Please remember these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~611 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~15g |
| Protein | ~49g |
| Fat | ~39g |
| Saturated Fat | ~20g |
| Cholesterol | ~186mg |
| Sodium | ~978mg |
| Fiber | ~2g |
| Sugar | ~5g |
These estimated nutritional values are provided for informational purposes only. Beyond its comforting taste, this casserole offers a good balance of lean protein and essential nutrients from ingredients like chicken and broccoli, contributing to a wholesome meal. For more details on the nutritional breakdown of key ingredients in this dish, you can explore the nutritional value of chicken and broccoli in casseroles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Get quick answers to common questions about making and enjoying chicken divan casserole.
What is Chicken Divan?
Chicken Divan is a classic American casserole featuring cooked chicken and broccoli florets baked in a creamy, often cheese-based sauce. It usually has a crunchy topping, like buttery cracker crumbs.
Why is it called Chicken Divan?
The Chicken Divan casserole gets its name from its origin at the Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York City, where it was created in the early 20th century. It was a signature dish. The rich history behind this classic American dish traces back to its creation at a prominent New York City eatery. Learn more about the specific culinary origins of Chicken Divan.
Can I use already cooked chicken?
Yes, absolutely! Using pre-cooked chicken, like rotisserie chicken, significantly cuts down on prep time. Just add it to the sautéed vegetables and sauce.
Is fresh or frozen broccoli better?
Both fresh and frozen broccoli work well. Fresh broccoli offers a slightly firmer texture, while frozen (thawed and patted dry) is more convenient and equally delicious in this recipe.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble your chicken divan casserole up to two days in advance, omitting the cracker topping. Cover and refrigerate, then bake as directed, adding extra baking time as needed.
How long does chicken divan last in the fridge?
Leftovers of this classic casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure it’s reheated thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
This chicken divan casserole remains a timeless classic for good reason. It’s a comforting, hearty meal that perfectly balances creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crisp-tender broccoli, all finished with a golden, buttery crunch. We hope this simple, beginner-friendly recipe empowers you to create a delicious dish with ease. Give this quick and easy chicken divan casserole a try tonight, and share your thoughts in the comments! We love hearing from you.