Chicken divan casserole
Chicken Divan Casserole is a classic comfort food that brings together tender chicken, broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce all baked to bubbly perfection. The dish has a gentle mix…
Tip: save now, cook later.Chicken Divan Casserole is a classic comfort food that brings together tender chicken, broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce all baked to bubbly perfection. The dish has a gentle mix of flavors and textures that make it a family favorite, with the cheesy topping adding a nice golden crust that everyone loves.
I always enjoy making this casserole because it feels like a warm hug on a plate. One tip I’ve learned is to use fresh or frozen broccoli florets for that perfect little crunch, balancing the softness of the chicken and sauce. It’s an easy dish to prepare ahead of time, which makes it great for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
My favorite way to serve Chicken Divan Casserole is with a simple side of rice or crusty bread to soak up all the creamy goodness. It’s one of those meals that brings people back to the table with smiles, sharing stories over a comforting, cheesy dish. Whenever I make it, it reminds me of cozy family dinners and good times together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast works best for this casserole. You can use rotisserie chicken to save time or leftover chicken for easy prep. If you want a healthier twist, try skinless chicken thighs for juicier meat.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets give a nice crunch, but frozen works well too—just thaw and drain to avoid extra water. You can also swap with cauliflower if you want a milder flavor.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These make the sauce creamy and tangy. For a lighter option, try Greek yogurt mixed with a little mayo or use light sour cream.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds strong, melty flavor. Parmesan adds a nutty touch in the sauce. You can swap cheddar with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even mozzarella for a milder taste.
Topping: Crushed potato chips give a fun, crunchy topping, but breadcrumbs work great too. For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of garlic or smoked paprika to the topping.
How Can I Make the Sauce Creamy Without It Being Watery?
The key is to mix the mayo, sour cream, and cheeses well to create a smooth, thick sauce. Here’s how I do it:
- Beat together mayo, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and spices until smooth.
- Fold in shredded cheddar and Parmesan, which help thicken the sauce as it bakes.
- Avoid adding extra liquid like milk, which can water down the sauce.
- Spread the sauce evenly over chicken and broccoli so every bite is creamy.
- Baking uncovered helps thicken the sauce as moisture evaporates, giving a perfect texture.
Remember, a thick sauce means the casserole holds together nicely and doesn’t become soupy. This simple step makes your Chicken Divan look and taste just right!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch casserole dish – big enough to hold all the layers and bake evenly.
- Mixing bowl – for combining your creamy sauce ingredients smoothly.
- Whisk or spoon – helps you mix the sauce without lumps.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your flavors balanced and consistent.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping chicken and broccoli if needed.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked turkey or ham – great after holidays or to change the flavor.
- Add cooked mushrooms or sautéed onions – they add depth and extra texture.
- Use pepper jack or mozzarella instead of cheddar – for a milder or spicier cheese taste.
- Sprinkle paprika or cayenne pepper on top before baking – for a gentle smoky or spicy kick.
How to Make Chicken Divan Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed and drained)
For The Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For The Topping:
- 1 ½ cups crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes to bake the casserole, so roughly 45 minutes total including resting time. It’s a quick and easy dish, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready and Mix the Sauce:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a big mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything until it becomes smooth and creamy. Then add 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and the Parmesan cheese, folding them gently into the sauce.
2. Layer the Chicken and Broccoli:
Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread your cooked chicken evenly on the bottom. Next, arrange the broccoli florets over the chicken in a nice layer.
3. Add Sauce, Cheese, and Topping:
Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken and broccoli layers, gently spreading to cover everything. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top. Finally, add the crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs to create a crunchy topping.
4. Bake and Serve:
Bake the casserole uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious and creamy Chicken Divan Casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for Chicken Divan Casserole?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen broccoli well to avoid extra moisture that can make the casserole watery. Fresh or frozen both work great.
How Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready, bake it a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through and bubbly.
What Are Good Substitutes for Potato Chips in the Topping?
If you don’t have potato chips, breadcrumbs or crushed crackers make perfect crunchy toppings. For a gluten-free option, try crushed cornflakes or gluten-free panko.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, stirring gently for even heating.