Delight your family with a truly timeless classic: chicken divan casserole. This comforting dish combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. This classic dish is believed to have originated in the early 20th century at the Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York City. Topped with a savory, buttery Ritz cracker crust, it’s an irresistible meal. This recipe emphasizes ease of preparation, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed Sunday dinners. You’ll find this easy chicken divan casserole quickly becomes a beloved staple in your home, versatile for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Divan Casserole
This chicken divan casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary hug. Rose Stayon makes baking simple, and this recipe delivers on that promise. You’ll appreciate how straightforward it is to prepare, saving you precious time in the kitchen.
- It’s a quick and straightforward recipe, perfect for busy schedules.
- Enjoy its rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying flavor that pleases every palate.
- This casserole provides ultimate hearty comfort food, ideal for any season.
- The dish is adaptable for various dietary needs, with simple ingredient swaps.
- It is excellent for make-ahead meals, simplifying future dinner plans.
- This is a proven family-favorite dish, guaranteed to be a hit every time.
Ingredients for Classic Chicken Divan Casserole
Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious chicken divan casserole. Each component plays a vital role in building layers of incredible flavor.
For the Casserole:
- 2 Tablespoons butter: For sautéing your aromatics and chicken.
- 2 lbs. Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Diced into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste, for seasoning the chicken and overall dish.
- 1 yellow onion: Finely diced to meld seamlessly into the sauce.
- 1 stick celery: Finely diced, adding subtle flavor and texture.
- 4 cups broccoli florets (about ½ lb.): Fresh or frozen, providing vibrant color and essential nutrients.
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing vegetables and helping with browning.
- 10.5 oz. cream of chicken soup: Canned, serving as the base for the creamy sauce.
- 2/3 cup sour cream: Adds richness and a tangy depth to the sauce.
- ½ cup milk: Used to thin the sauce to the perfect consistency.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: For an aromatic depth that enhances all flavors.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory profile of the casserole.
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder: Provides a subtle tang that balances the richness.
- 2 ½ cups cheddar cheese: Freshly shredded for superior melt and flavor.
For the Buttery Ritz Topping:
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers: For that iconic, irresistible crunch.
- 2 Tablespoons melted butter: To bind the cracker crumbs and create a golden crust.
Notes & Substitutions
You can easily customize this creamy chicken divan to fit your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Chicken: Use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time, or opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra moisture.
- Soup: For a homemade touch, prepare your own cream of chicken soup from scratch.
- Cream: Substitute sour cream with an equal amount of mayonnaise for a slightly different tang.
- Broccoli: If using frozen florets, thaw and drain them well to prevent a watery casserole.
- Cheese: Experiment with Gruyere, Swiss, or a sharp white cheddar blend for different flavor notes.
- Topping: Panko breadcrumbs also make a fantastic crunchy topping if you prefer them over Ritz crackers.
Equipment Needed
Preparing this easy chicken divan casserole requires just a few standard kitchen items.
- 9×13 inch casserole dish: The ideal size for baking this family-friendly meal.
- Large Dutch oven or pot: Perfect for sautéing ingredients and mixing the creamy sauce.
- Sharp knife and cutting board: Essential for safely prepping your chicken and vegetables.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accuracy with all your liquid and dry ingredients.
- Whisk or sturdy spoon: For thoroughly combining the sauce ingredients until smooth.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Your Chicken Divan Casserole
Follow these straightforward steps to create your perfect chicken divan casserole. Beginners will find this recipe exceptionally simple and rewarding.
- Preheat oven and prep dish: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. This prevents sticking and ensures easy serving.
- Prepare chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken generously with salt and black pepper to enhance its natural flavor.
- Sauté chicken and aromatics: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken, diced yellow onion, and diced celery. Toss to coat all ingredients evenly. Sauté for about 3 minutes, until the chicken is roughly halfway cooked through and the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add broccoli: Incorporate the 4 cups of broccoli florets and 1 tablespoon of olive oil into the pot with the chicken mixture. Continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is tender-crisp. Remove the pot from the heat.
- Mix the creamy sauce: Into the hot chicken and vegetable mixture, stir in the 10.5 oz can of cream of chicken soup, 2/3 cup of sour cream, and ½ cup of milk. Add ½ teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add cheese: Stir in half of the 2 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese into the chicken and sauce mixture. Ensure the cheese is evenly distributed, melting slightly into the warm sauce.
- Assemble casserole: Transfer the entire chicken and sauce mixture to your prepared 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread it into an even layer using the back of your spoon or a spatula. Top the casserole with the remaining half of the shredded cheddar cheese, creating a beautiful cheesy layer.
- Initial bake: Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated 350-degree F oven for 20 minutes. This allows the casserole to heat through and flavors to meld beautifully.
- Prepare Ritz topping: While the casserole bakes, prepare the buttery Ritz topping. Crush ½ cup of Ritz crackers until they form fine crumbs. In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with 2 tablespoons of melted butter, stirring until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Add topping and final bake: Remove the casserole from the oven after 20 minutes and carefully remove the foil cover. Increase the oven temperature to 400 degrees F (200 C). Sprinkle the buttery Ritz cracker mixture evenly over the top of the hot casserole. Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and delightfully crispy.
- Rest and serve: Once baked, remove the chicken divan casserole from the oven. Let it sit and rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to scoop and ensuring the flavors are perfectly melded.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Divan Casserole
Elevate your chicken divan casserole with these expert tips, ensuring a perfect dish every time.
- Avoid overcooking chicken: Cook chicken just until it’s done to keep it juicy and tender, not dry.
- Properly sauté aromatics: Fully sautéing the onion and celery builds a foundational flavor base.
- Adjust sauce consistency: If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more milk until it reaches your desired creaminess.
- Tender-crisp broccoli: Ensure your broccoli is cooked until tender-crisp, offering a pleasant bite without being mushy.
- Perfectly golden topping: Keep an eye on the Ritz topping during the final bake to achieve a beautiful golden brown and crispy texture.
- Season generously: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the layers for the best overall flavor profile in your creamy chicken divan.
Serving, Storage, and Variations
This versatile chicken divan casserole is fantastic on its own or with simple accompaniments.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this classic pairing over fluffy white or brown rice for a complete meal.
- Spoon generous portions over creamy mashed potatoes for ultimate comfort.
- Enjoy it with warm, flaky biscuits that are perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- Complement the richness with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette.
- It’s also delicious served alongside tender egg noodles, especially during colder months.
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store any leftover creamy chicken divan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- The USDA provides comprehensive guidelines for safe food handling and storage of leftovers, including casseroles, to ensure food safety.
- Freeze: To freeze, allow the cooled casserole to reach room temperature, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Thaw frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat covered in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
Variations
- Vegetable Additions: Include frozen peas, sliced mushrooms, or diced carrots for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Spice Level: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.
- Cheese Options: Try Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked Gouda for a different cheesy dimension.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in dried thyme, dried dill, or fresh chopped parsley for an aromatic boost.
- Lighter Version: Use low-fat cream of chicken soup, light sour cream, and skim milk to reduce calories and fat.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving of this chicken divan casserole. Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 570 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Protein | 40 g |
| Total Fat | 33 g |
| Saturated Fat | 18 g |
| Cholesterol | 130 mg |
| Sodium | 980 mg |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Vitamin A | 15% DV |
| Vitamin C | 40% DV |
| Calcium | 40% DV |
| Iron | 15% DV |
*These nutritional values are estimates only.*
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Find quick answers to common questions about preparing this delightful chicken divan casserole.
- Can I use cooked chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! Using cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover shredded chicken works perfectly and significantly reduces prep time.
- Is it possible to make this without canned soup? Yes, you can create a homemade cream sauce using butter, flour, milk, and chicken broth for a from-scratch alternative.
- How do I prevent my chicken divan from being watery? Ensure you thoroughly drain any thawed frozen broccoli. Also, cook down your sauce slightly if it seems too thin before adding chicken.
- Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? You can assemble the entire casserole (without the Ritz topping) a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking.
- What’s the best way to freeze chicken divan? Freeze the unbaked or fully baked and cooled casserole tightly wrapped. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking or reheating.
Conclusion: Your Go-To Comfort Food Chicken Divan
This easy chicken divan casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for making weeknights special or feeding a crowd. Its rich, creamy texture combined with tender chicken and broccoli, all crowned with a buttery Ritz cracker topping, makes it an instant classic. We hope you enjoy making this simple, family-friendly meal as much as you love eating it. Give this amazing chicken divan casserole a try tonight, and don’t forget to share your experience and rate the recipe!