Get ready to discover your new favorite family dinner! This chicken divan casserole recipe is a timeless classic, renowned for its comforting layers and rich flavors. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal without the fuss. Imagine tender chicken and broccoli bathed in a luxurious creamy sauce, all topped with a perfectly golden, crunchy cracker crust. This dish promises a warm hug in every bite, appealing to both kids and adults alike!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Divan Casserole
You’ll quickly fall in love with this ultimate chicken divan casserole for many reasons. It’s a fantastic solution for weeknight dinners, coming together with minimal effort and cook time. The rich, creamy sauce and tender ingredients create an incredibly satisfying flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, this recipe is super easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and uses simple, readily available ingredients. It’s also wonderfully customizable to suit your family’s preferences and works beautifully for meal prepping throughout the week.
What is Chicken Divan?
Chicken Divan is a classic American casserole dish, traditionally made with cooked chicken, broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce often based on béchamel or cream of mushroom soup, then topped with cheese and breadcrumbs. Its name “Divan” actually comes from the Divan Parisienne Restaurant at the Chatham Hotel in New York City, where it was invented in the early 20th century.
For a deeper dive into its origins, learn about the culinary history of Chicken Divan, a dish created at the Divan Parisienne Restaurant in New York City.
Over time, the recipe evolved, becoming a beloved staple in many homes for its comforting appeal and ease of preparation. This beloved dish is a true testament to simple, delicious comfort food.
Ingredients for Chicken Divan Casserole
Gather these ingredients to create your delectable chicken divan casserole:
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 2 lbs. Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, diced
- 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
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers (or panko breadcrumbs)
Notes & Substitutions
You have flexibility with many ingredients for this wonderful chicken divan casserole. For the chicken, feel free to use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time, or opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor. If using fresh broccoli, ensure florets are bite-sized. For frozen broccoli, you can add it directly to the pan with the chicken, no need to thaw. If you don’t have sour cream, mayonnaise can be a suitable alternative for a similar tang and creaminess. For the topping, panko breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes work wonderfully if you’re out of Ritz crackers. You can also make homemade cream of chicken soup for an extra touch.
Essential Equipment
To prepare this fantastic chicken divan casserole, you will need a few basic kitchen tools. A 9×13 inch baking dish is essential for assembling and baking the casserole to perfection. A Dutch oven or large pot will be used for sautéing your chicken and vegetables. You’ll also need measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient quantities. Finally, a cutting board and a sharp knife are necessary for preparing the chicken and vegetables safely and efficiently.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this creamy chicken divan casserole is straightforward! Follow these simple steps for a perfect meal.
First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease your 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
Next, cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper to taste; this builds flavor from the start.
Melt the two tablespoons of butter in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the seasoned chicken along with the diced yellow onion and celery. Toss everything to coat evenly in the butter. Sauté for about 3 minutes, just until the chicken is about halfway cooked through and starting to brown.
Now, add the four cups of broccoli florets and one tablespoon of olive oil to the pot. Continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through and the broccoli is tender-crisp. Don’t overcook the broccoli, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Remove the pot from the heat.
Stir in the 10.5 oz can of cream of chicken soup, 2/3 cup of sour cream, and ½ cup of milk into the chicken and broccoli mixture. Add the ½ teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder. Finally, mix in half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything until well combined and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Transfer this delicious mixture into your prepared 9×13 inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Top the casserole with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes in the preheated 350-degree oven.
While the casserole bakes, prepare the topping. In a small bowl, combine the ½ cup of crushed Ritz crackers with 1 tablespoon of melted butter (not listed in ingredients, assume it’s part of the initial 2 Tbsp or add 1 more Tbsp for topping). After 20 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
Sprinkle the buttery Ritz cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
Once baked, remove the chicken divan casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the sauce to set slightly. Serve hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or biscuits for a truly comforting meal. Enjoy!
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Elevate your chicken divan casserole with these expert tips and easily avoid common pitfalls for a perfect dish every time.
Tips for the Creamiest Casserole
To achieve the ultimate creamy texture, be careful not to overcook the chicken during the initial sautéing phase; it will finish cooking in the oven. Ensure you balance your seasonings perfectly; taste the sauce before adding it to the baking dish and adjust as needed. Using freshly shredded cheddar cheese is always recommended, as it melts much more smoothly and beautifully than pre-shredded varieties. Understanding the science behind it, why shredding your own cheese is better for smooth melting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A common mistake is mushy broccoli; avoid this by cooking it until it’s tender-crisp in the pot, remembering it will soften further during baking. Don’t let your sauce be bland; adjust the salt, pepper, and other spices to your liking before baking. Finally, ensure your cracker topping has enough melted butter mixed in to get that perfectly golden, crispy texture, rather than a dry, crumbly one.
Make-Ahead & Freezing Tips
You can easily assemble this chicken divan casserole up to 2 days in advance. Simply prepare it through step 6, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time since it will be going into the oven cold. For freezing, you can freeze the casserole unbaked or baked. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, or bake from frozen, allowing extra time.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
This versatile chicken divan casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, and it’s also a fantastic base for creative culinary twists.
What to Serve with Chicken Divan Casserole
For a complete and satisfying meal, serve your chicken divan casserole over fluffy white or brown rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or your favorite egg noodles. These starchy sides perfectly soak up the rich, creamy sauce. To add some freshness and balance to the meal, consider serving a crisp green side salad with a light vinaigrette. A loaf of crusty bread or warm dinner rolls are also excellent choices for dipping into any leftover sauce.
Exciting Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize your chicken divan casserole with these exciting variations! Incorporate different vegetables like sliced mushrooms, frozen peas, or blanched asparagus for added flavor and nutrition. Experiment with various cheese blends; Swiss, Gruyere, or even a sharp provolone can add a delightful twist. If you like a little kick, spice things up with a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika in the sauce. For the topping, consider crushed cornflakes, French fried onions, or even buttered breadcrumbs for different textures.
Nutrition Information
Enjoying this delicious chicken divan casserole can certainly be part of a balanced diet. Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving. Please note, values can vary based on specific brands and exact preparation.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450-500 kcal |
| Total Fat | 30-35 g |
| Saturated Fat | 15-18 g |
| Cholesterol | 100-120 mg |
| Sodium | 900-1100 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 15-20 g |
| Fiber | 2-3 g |
| Sugars | 3-5 g |
| Protein | 30-35 g |
This recipe makes approximately 6-8 servings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions about making the best chicken divan casserole.
What kind of chicken is best for Divan casserole?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Cooked rotisserie chicken is also a great time-saver for this dish.
Can I use frozen broccoli? How should I prepare it?
Yes, absolutely! You can add frozen broccoli florets directly to the pot with the chicken; no need to thaw them first.
Can Chicken Divan Casserole be made ahead of time?
You can assemble the casserole up to 2 days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator before baking. Just add extra baking time from cold.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover and warm in the oven.
Can I use a homemade cream of chicken soup?
Yes, using homemade cream of chicken soup will add an extra layer of richness and depth of flavor to your casserole.
Conclusion
This ultimate creamy chicken divan casserole truly delivers on comfort, flavor, and ease. It’s a wonderful go-to recipe that consistently pleases crowds, whether for a weeknight family dinner or a special gathering. With its tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, luscious sauce, and crunchy topping, it’s a meal that feels both special and incredibly simple to create. We encourage you to try this fantastic recipe in your kitchen soon! Share your delicious results and enjoy every satisfying bite of this classic comfort food.