Embrace a true comfort food classic with this irresistible chicken divan casserole. This dish combines tender chicken and vibrant broccoli in a rich, creamy sauce, all crowned with a buttery, crispy topping. It is incredibly easy to prepare and a guaranteed family favorite for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Get ready to enjoy a deeply satisfying meal that’s both simple and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Divan Casserole
This chicken divan casserole offers a perfect blend of convenience and flavor, making it a staple in any kitchen.
- It’s an effortless and quick weeknight dinner solution, ready in under an hour.
- You’ll savor its rich, creamy, and savory flavor profile that truly satisfies.
- The recipe is highly customizable with simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
- It is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent make-ahead option for busy schedules.
- This casserole is a nostalgic, comforting dish, bringing warmth and joy to your table with every bite.
What is Chicken Divan?
For a deeper dive into the origins of this popular dish, explore the fascinating history of Chicken Divan.
Chicken Divan is a classic American casserole that typically features cooked chicken and broccoli florets bound in a rich, creamy sauce, often made with a base of cream of chicken soup. The dish is traditionally topped with shredded cheese and a buttery breadcrumb or cracker mixture before baking until golden. Its origins trace back to the Divan Parisienne Restaurant in New York City in the early 20th century, evolving into the beloved comfort food it is today.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious chicken divan casserole:
- Wet Ingredients: 2 Tablespoons butter, 1 Tablespoon olive oil, 10.5 oz. cream of chicken soup, ½ cup milk
- Protein: 2 lbs. Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
- Vegetables: 1 yellow onion (diced), 1 stick celery (diced), 4 cups broccoli florets (about ½ lb.)
- Dairy: 2/3 cup sour cream, 2 ½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Seasonings: Salt/Pepper (to taste), ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- Topping Ingredients: ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers
Notes & Substitutions
You have flexibility with several ingredients to best suit your preferences and what you have available. For the chicken, use already cooked chicken like shredded rotisserie chicken to save time, or cook raw chicken as directed. Fresh broccoli offers a crispier texture, but frozen broccoli florets work perfectly; just thaw and drain them well before use. If you don’t have sour cream, an equal amount of mayonnaise is a great substitute for creaminess. For the topping, panko breadcrumbs create a fantastic crisp crust if you prefer an alternative to Ritz crackers. For a homemade touch, you can even make your own cream of chicken soup from scratch, though canned is convenient.
Equipment
Having the right tools makes preparing your chicken divan casserole a breeze. You will need a 9×13-inch baking dish for assembling and baking the casserole. A large Dutch oven or a deep, oven-safe pot is essential for sautéing your chicken and vegetables. Standard cooking tools include a sharp knife and cutting board for prep, a large mixing spoon or spatula, and measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
How to Make Chicken Divan Casserole (Step-by-Step)
Follow these clear steps to create a perfect chicken divan casserole every time. This recipe is designed to be straightforward for beginners.
Step 1: Prep & Preheat
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper to enhance its flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics & Chicken
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and diced celery to the pot. Sauté for about 3 minutes until they start to soften. Next, add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pot and toss to coat with the butter and aromatics. Cook for approximately 3 minutes, until the chicken is about halfway done. Incorporate the 4 cups of broccoli florets and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes, ensuring the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is tender-crisp. Remove the pot from the heat.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
To the cooked chicken and broccoli mixture in the pot, add the 10.5 oz. can of cream of chicken soup. Next, stir in the 2/3 cup of sour cream, ½ cup of milk, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, and ½ teaspoon of mustard powder. Mix everything well until thoroughly combined and smooth. Gently fold in half of the 2 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt slightly into the warm mixture.
Step 4: Assemble & First Bake
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Transfer the entire creamy chicken and broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom. Top the casserole with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese. Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated 350-degree F oven for 20 minutes.
Step 5: Add Cracker Topping & Finish Baking
After 20 minutes, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Increase the oven temperature to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). While the oven preheats, prepare your buttery Ritz cracker topping. In a small bowl, combine the ½ cup of crushed Ritz crackers with 2 tablespoons of melted butter (not listed in ingredients, but needed here per instructions). Sprinkle this buttery cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. Return the uncovered casserole to the 400-degree F oven. Bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
Step 6: Rest & Serve
Once baked, remove the chicken divan casserole from the oven. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Portion out and enjoy your delicious, comforting meal.
Pro Tips for Success
Achieve the best results with your chicken divan casserole by following these expert tips. Pre-cook your chicken, especially if using larger pieces, to ensure even cooking and save time. Adjust the broccoli doneness to your liking; some prefer it softer, others more crisp. Taste the sauce before assembling to ensure proper seasoning balance and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Finally, avoid overbaking the casserole to keep the chicken tender and the sauce creamy, preventing it from drying out.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your chicken is both safe and deliciously tender, always aim for the USDA-recommended internal temperature for cooked chicken.
Do not overcook the chicken, as this can make it dry and tough. To prevent a watery sauce or soggy topping, ensure frozen broccoli is well-drained and the casserole is baked at the correct temperature. Avoid a bland flavor profile by not skipping the seasonings and tasting your sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Your delightful chicken divan casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it over fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a truly satisfying meal. Fluffy biscuits or warm dinner rolls are excellent for soaking up all the delicious sauce. For a fresh contrast, consider a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette.
Storage & Make Ahead
Leftover chicken divan casserole stores beautifully for future meals. Refrigerate any leftovers promptly in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This dish is also fantastic for preparing ahead of time. You can assemble the entire casserole, excluding the cracker topping, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, add the topping and bake as directed, possibly adding 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time if baking from cold.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze this chicken divan casserole, allow it to cool completely after baking. Transfer individual portions or the entire casserole to a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s tightly sealed. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it in the oven or microwave until hot and bubbly.
Variations
Get creative with your chicken divan casserole by exploring these delicious variations. Experiment with different cheese types; gruyere or sharp white cheddar can add unique flavors. Incorporate other vegetables like sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or even frozen peas for added color and nutrition. For an alternative crunchy topping, consider crushed potato chips, fried onions, or even cornbread crumbs instead of crackers.
Nutrition Information
(Per serving, estimated)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 40g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Carbs | 18g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 850mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. This estimate is for one of 6.6 servings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Yes, absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver. Just shred the chicken and add it directly into the sauce mixture.
Is fresh or frozen broccoli better?
Both work well in this chicken divan casserole. Fresh broccoli offers a slightly crisper texture. If using frozen, thaw it first and drain any excess water to prevent a watery sauce.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can make a homemade white sauce (béchamel) with chicken broth and cream. Alternatively, a combination of cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth can also work.
How do I avoid a runny sauce?
Ensure your sour cream isn’t too thin, and if using frozen broccoli, drain it thoroughly. Adding a touch more cheese can also help thicken the sauce.
Can this casserole be made gluten-free?
Yes, easily. Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup, a gluten-free flour for thickening if making homemade sauce, and gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs for the topping.
Conclusion
This classic chicken divan casserole remains a beloved recipe for good reason. Its comforting combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce topped with a golden crunch makes it an undeniable family favorite. Easy to prepare and deeply satisfying, it perfectly aligns with our mission of making baking simple for busy parents and beginners. We encourage you to try this delightful dish; share your creations and comments below!