Discover the ultimate comfort food with this easy chicken divan casserole recipe! This beloved dish combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce for a truly satisfying meal. Topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust, it’s effortlessly delicious, perfect for busy weeknights, and a guaranteed family favorite. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare this classic.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Divan Casserole
- It’s a quick and easy weeknight dinner solution that saves you time in the kitchen.
- This dish is hearty, satisfying, and deeply comforting, perfect for any season.
- You can easily customize this chicken divan casserole with simple ingredient swaps to suit your taste.
- It’s an excellent option for meal prepping, and it freezes beautifully for future meals.
- The irresistible buttery Ritz cracker topping adds a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
What is Chicken Divan Casserole?
The classic chicken divan casserole originated in the 1930s at the Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York City.
Delving into its history, this iconic dish was first served at the Divan Parisien Restaurant.
It features tender cooked chicken and fresh or frozen broccoli, generously coated in a rich, creamy sauce, often made with a base of cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, or sour cream. This iconic dish is then typically baked and often finished with a crunchy topping. Its enduring popularity as a comfort food staple makes it a cherished family recipe across many homes.
Ingredients
Here are the simple ingredients you’ll need to create this delicious chicken divan casserole:
For the Casserole Base:
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 2 lbs. Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
- 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. can 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
For the Ritz Cracker Topping:
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 Tablespoons butter, melted
Notes & Substitutions
You have flexibility with several ingredients to make this chicken divan casserole your own. For broccoli, fresh florets provide the best texture, but you can use frozen broccoli (no need to thaw) if you’re short on time. Cooked chicken breast works perfectly here, whether you boil it, bake it, or use convenient rotisserie chicken. If you prefer not to use canned soup, try making a simple béchamel sauce seasoned with chicken broth. You can swap sour cream for mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor. Finally, if Ritz crackers aren’t available, panko breadcrumbs tossed with melted butter make an excellent crispy alternative.
Equipment
Gathering your equipment before you begin makes cooking a breeze. You will need an oven-safe 9×13 casserole dish for baking this comforting dish. A large sauté pan or Dutch oven is essential for cooking the chicken and vegetables. Other handy tools include a mixing bowl for the sauce, a cutting board, and a sharp knife for prepping ingredients.
How to Make Chicken Divan Casserole (Step-by-Step Instructions)
Get ready to create a fantastic chicken divan casserole with these easy steps. This recipe comes together quickly for a comforting meal.
- Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prep Chicken. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Sprinkle them lightly with salt and pepper to season.
- Step 2: Sauté Chicken and Vegetables. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken, diced onions, and diced celery. Toss to coat and sauté for about 3 minutes until the chicken is halfway cooked. Then, add the broccoli florets and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through and the broccoli is tender-crisp. Remove the pot from the heat.
- Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce Mixture. To the pot with the chicken and vegetables, add the can of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder. Stir all these ingredients well to combine them thoroughly into a creamy sauce.
- Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Casserole Dish. Gently stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the chicken and sauce mixture. Transfer this entire mixture to a lightly greased 9×13 casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Top the casserole with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
- Step 5: Bake the Casserole Covered. Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 20 minutes in the preheated 350-degree oven. This initial bake allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to heat through.
- Step 6: Add the Buttery Ritz Topping. After 20 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven. Increase the oven temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven heats, combine the ½ cup of crushed Ritz crackers with 2 tablespoons of melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle this buttery Ritz mixture evenly over the top of the partially baked casserole.
- Step 7: Finish Baking Until Golden Brown. Return the uncovered casserole to the oven. Bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the Ritz cracker topping is golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is bubbly.
- Step 8: Rest and Serve. Carefully remove the chicken divan casserole from the oven. Let it sit and rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Serve hot over your choice of sides.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Divan Casserole
Achieve perfectly cooked chicken every time by not overcooking it in the sauté pan; it will finish cooking in the oven. For optimal food safety, it’s crucial to ensure chicken reaches the USDA’s safe minimum internal temperature for poultry. For ultimate convenience, use pre-cooked rotisserie or leftover chicken, reducing your prep time significantly. Ensure your broccoli is tender-crisp, not mushy, by adding it later in the sauté process or blanching it briefly. Create an extra rich, flavorful sauce by adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of white wine. To prevent a soggy cracker topping, add it only after the initial covered bake. If your sauce is too thick, whisk in a little more milk; if too thin, a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water can thicken it during the last minutes of baking.
Serving Suggestions, Storage & Variations
Serving Suggestions
This creamy chicken divan casserole is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with several sides. Serve it over fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all the delicious sauce. For a heartier meal, enjoy it with warm biscuits or crusty bread. You can also balance the richness with a light, crisp side salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette.
Storage & Freezing Instructions
To store leftovers, transfer any remaining chicken divan casserole to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will maintain its quality for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then bake at 350°F until heated through, covering with foil to prevent drying.
Variations & Additions
Feel free to get creative with your chicken divan casserole! Experiment with different cheeses like sharp Swiss, tangy Gruyere, or nutty Parmesan for new flavor profiles. Add other vegetables such as sliced mushrooms, sweet peas, or diced carrots during the sauté step. Introduce different spices or herbs like a pinch of smoked paprika, thyme, or a dash of hot sauce for a kick. For a holiday twist, swap the chicken for cooked turkey.
Chicken Divan Casserole Nutrition Facts
This chicken divan casserole provides a hearty and satisfying meal. While exact values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, a typical serving offers a good source of protein, along with carbohydrates and fats. It’s a comforting dish perfect for a family dinner.
| Nutrient | Amount (estimated per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 550-650 |
| Protein | 35-45g |
| Fat | 35-45g |
| Saturated Fat | 15-20g |
| Carbohydrates | 20-30g |
| Fiber | 3-5g |
| Sodium | 800-1000mg |
Disclaimer: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary significantly based on specific ingredients, brands, and preparation methods. Please consult a professional for precise dietary information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use canned cream of mushroom soup?
Absolutely! While cream of chicken is traditional, cream of mushroom soup is a popular and delicious alternative that adds a lovely earthy flavor to your chicken divan casserole.
How do I make this casserole healthier?
To lighten it up, use low-fat cream of chicken soup, reduced-fat sour cream, and skim milk. You can also increase the broccoli content and reduce the amount of cheese for a healthier twist.
Can I make Chicken Divan without soup?
Yes, you can make a roux-based white sauce (béchamel) with butter, flour, milk, and chicken broth, then season it. This homemade sauce will give your chicken divan casserole a fresh, rich flavor.
What kind of chicken is best for Divan casserole?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal. Cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken or leftover baked chicken, works perfectly for a quick assembly.
Why is my Chicken Divan watery?
A watery casserole often results from moisture released by the broccoli or chicken. Ensure you drain any excess liquid from the cooked broccoli and chicken before mixing them into the sauce.
Conclusion
This classic chicken divan casserole with its irresistible Ritz cracker topping is truly a timeless family favorite for good reason. It’s incredibly easy to make, offers a perfect balance of creamy richness and tender textures, and delivers comforting flavors with every spoonful. We encourage you to try this simple recipe soon; it’s perfect for busy evenings or a cozy weekend meal. Make this delicious chicken divan casserole a staple in your home, and don’t forget to share your experience and creations with us in the comments!