Get ready to whip up a true family favorite: our easy chicken divan casserole! This comforting dish brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce, all topped with a perfectly crispy, buttery cracker crust. It’s a hearty meal that feels special but comes together with minimal fuss, making it ideal for any busy weeknight or casual gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Divan Casserole
This delightful chicken divan casserole is a go-to for many reasons. It simplifies mealtime without sacrificing flavor, delivering comfort in every forkful.
- Quick & Easy Prep: You can get this casserole into the oven in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
- Irresistibly Creamy & Cheesy: A velvety sauce and plenty of cheddar cheese make this dish incredibly satisfying.
- Versatile Comfort Food: Enjoy it as a hearty weeknight dinner or serve it proudly at your next potluck.
- Make-Ahead & Freezer-Friendly: Prepare it in advance or freeze portions for quick meals later, saving you time.
- Adaptable Ingredients: Easily swap out components based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
Ingredients
This delicious chicken divan casserole comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have. Fresh chicken and broccoli form the base, while a rich, creamy sauce binds everything together. A buttery cracker topping adds the perfect crunch.
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 2 lbs. Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (see notes)
- Salt and 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 delicious dish. Adjust them to fit your pantry and preferences for the best chicken divan.
- Chicken: Use cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if preferred. If using raw chicken, ensure it’s cooked through before combining.
- Broccoli: Frozen broccoli florets work well! Thaw them completely and pat them very dry before adding to the skillet to prevent a watery casserole.
- Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, Colby Jack, or a sharp white cheddar for varied flavor profiles.
- Ritz Crackers: If you don’t have Ritz, panko breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes make a great crispy topping alternative.
- Sour Cream/Mayonnaise: Feel free to use all sour cream, all mayonnaise, or a 50/50 blend for the creamy base.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: For a homemade touch, you can make your own cream of chicken soup from scratch using a roux, broth, and milk.
Equipment
Gathering your equipment beforehand makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. You’ll need just a few basic kitchen tools for this chicken divan recipe.
- 9×13 inch casserole dish
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon or spatula
Instructions
Making this chicken divan casserole is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for a delicious, comforting meal that will quickly become a family favorite.
- Prepare the Oven and Chicken: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, then sprinkle them lightly with salt and pepper to season.
- Sauté Aromatics and Chicken: Melt the 2 tablespoons of butter in a Dutch oven or a large, oven-safe pot over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken, diced yellow onion, and diced celery. Toss these ingredients to coat them in the melted butter. Sauté for about 3 minutes, or until the chicken is about halfway cooked through.
- Add Broccoli: Stir in the 4 cups of broccoli florets and 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot with the chicken and vegetables. Continue to cook for an additional 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and the broccoli is tender-crisp. Do not overcook the broccoli at this stage. Remove the pot from the heat.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: To the cooked chicken and broccoli mixture, add the entire can of cream of chicken soup, the sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder. Stir these ingredients thoroughly until everything is well combined and forms a creamy sauce. Then, stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts slightly and integrates into the sauce.
- Assemble the Casserole: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Transfer the entire creamy chicken and broccoli mixture from the pot into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Top the mixture with the remaining half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- First Bake: Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake it in the preheated 350-degree oven for 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to heat through.
- Prepare Cracker Topping: While the casserole bakes, melt the remaining butter (if any from instructions) and combine it with the crushed Ritz crackers in a small bowl.
- Second Bake with Topping: After 20 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and carefully remove the foil. Increase the oven temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Sprinkle the buttery Ritz cracker topping evenly over the entire casserole. Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and bake for another 8–10 minutes, or until the cracker topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Rest and Serve: Once the topping is golden, remove the chicken divan casserole from the oven. Let it sit and rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly. Serve your delicious chicken divan over rice, biscuits, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Achieving the perfect chicken divan casserole is easy with a few key pointers. These tips will help you create a creamy, flavorful dish every time.
- Ensure Cooked Chicken: Always make sure your chicken is fully cooked through before combining with the sauce to ensure food safety and tenderness. For essential food safety, it’s crucial to ensure chicken reaches the correct internal temperature, as advised by the USDA safe cooking temperature chart for poultry.
- Prevent Soggy Broccoli: Cook broccoli until it’s tender-crisp, not mushy. It will continue to cook slightly in the oven. If using frozen, thaw and drain well.
- Extra Crispy Topping: For a really golden and crisp cracker topping, ensure the butter is fully melted and mixed, and bake until deeply golden.
- Avoid Watery Casserole: Pat raw chicken and thawed frozen broccoli dry. Excess moisture can thin out your creamy sauce.
- Season for Best Flavor: Taste and adjust salt and pepper after adding the soup and sour cream. A pinch of extra mustard powder can boost flavor.
- Adjust Cheese: Feel free to add an extra half cup of cheese if you prefer a richer, cheesier chicken divan.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
This versatile chicken divan casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. It’s truly a complete meal on its own, but these additions can elevate the experience.
Serve this hearty casserole over a bed of fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or warm, flaky biscuits to soak up all the delicious sauce.
Pair it with a simple, crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
Variations
- Add Cooked Vegetables: Stir in cooked sliced mushrooms, peas, or even some diced red bell pepper for extra flavor and color.
- Spicy Kick: Include a dash of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes into the sauce for a subtle heat.
- Turkey Divan: For a classic twist, swap the chicken for cooked, shredded turkey. This is a fantastic way to use up holiday leftovers!
- Healthier Options: Use whole wheat crackers or a sprinkle of toasted whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of Ritz crackers for a lighter topping. Opt for low-fat soup and sour cream.
Nutrition Information
This estimated nutrition information for one serving of chicken divan casserole is for general guidance only. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
| Nutrient | Amount (Estimated) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420-480 kcal |
| Protein | 35-40g |
| Total Fat | 25-30g |
| Carbohydrates | 15-20g |
| Fiber | 2-3g |
| Sodium | 700-800mg |
This dish provides a good source of protein, essential for muscle health. It also contains vitamins and minerals from the broccoli and dairy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is chicken divan casserole?
Chicken divan casserole is a classic American dish combining cooked chicken and broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce, often topped with breadcrumbs or crackers, then baked. It’s a comforting, family-friendly meal.
Can I use cooked chicken for this recipe?
Yes, absolutely! Using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken will significantly cut down on your prep time. Simply shred or dice the cooked chicken and add it to the skillet with the sautéed onions and celery, reducing the initial cooking time.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Frozen broccoli works perfectly in this chicken divan casserole. Be sure to thaw it completely and pat it very dry with paper towels to prevent any excess moisture from making your casserole watery.
How do I store leftover chicken divan?
Store any leftover chicken divan casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Proper storage of leftovers is key to maintaining food quality and preventing foodborne illness, as outlined in USDA food safety basics for leftovers. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can you freeze chicken divan casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it! Assemble the casserole (without the cracker topping), cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking, adding the cracker topping just before baking.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer not to use canned soup, you can make a homemade version. Whisk together butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk until thickened, then season it to taste. This makes an excellent base for your creamy chicken divan.
Conclusion
You now have everything you need to create a truly irresistible chicken divan casserole that will become a cherished part of your family’s meal rotation. This recipe embodies simplicity, comfort, and incredible flavor, proving that delicious meals don’t have to be complicated. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the process of making this delightful dish. Share this comforting classic with your loved ones and savor every creamy, cheesy bite! We’d love to hear how it turned out, so please leave a comment and rating below.