Classic Elegance: Broccoli Chicken Divan is a cherished dish that blends the wholesome goodness of broccoli with tender chicken, all draped in a creamy, cheesy sauce and baked to golden perfection. This casserole is a quintessential comfort food, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s a traditional recipe that has stood the test of time, offering both nutrition and great taste in every bite.
Why You’ll Love Broccoli Chicken Divan:
- Nutritious and Delicious: Combines protein-rich chicken and nutrient-packed broccoli in a tasty way.
- Comfort Food Classic: Known for its creamy texture and comforting flavors.
- Versatile: Easy to adapt with various ingredients according to your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Simple Preparation: Requires minimal prep time and can be assembled ahead of time, making it convenient for busy schedules.
Ingredients Notes For Broccoli Chicken Divan:
- Chicken: Cooked and diced or shredded, chicken breasts are commonly used, but leftover or rotisserie chicken works well too.
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets, blanched or steamed until just tender, add color, texture, and essential nutrients.
- Cream of Mushroom or Chicken Soup: Acts as a base for the sauce, providing richness and depth. You can also use a homemade white sauce for a less processed alternative.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar or a mix of cheddar and Parmesan gives the dish its cheesy goodness.
- Breadcrumbs or Ritz Crackers: Sprinkled on top for a crunchy finish.
- Mayonnaise and Mustard: Enhance the sauce with their tangy and creamy qualities.
- Lemon Juice: Adds a hint of brightness to balance the rich flavors.
Recipe Steps:
- Prep the Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the blanched broccoli florets in a baking dish and layer the cooked chicken on top.
- Make the Sauce: In a bowl, mix the cream soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and mustard until smooth. Stir in half the cheese.
- Assemble the Dish: Spread the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken and broccoli. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, followed by breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for added crunch.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving to allow the sauce to set a bit, making it easier to serve.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze portions in suitable containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
INGREDIENTS
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 4 cups broccoli florets, steamed until just tender
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for the topping)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for topping)
INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or similar size casserole dish.
- Layer Broccoli and Chicken:
- Arrange the steamed broccoli evenly at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Layer the cooked chicken over the broccoli.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, until bubbly.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, and bring the mixture to a boil. Cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream, Dijon mustard, and half of the cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Bake:
- Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken and broccoli in the dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the sauce.
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese, if using. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to set the sauce a bit.
- Serve warm, ideally with a side of rice or crusty bread to complete the meal.
