Chicken Divan

There was a time when I needed to impress my in-laws with a home-cooked meal. I rummaged through my recipe box and came across a comforting dish my mom used to make: Chicken Divan. I had completely forgotten how easy and delicious it was to prepare. With its creamy texture, tender chicken, and bright green broccoli, it’s one of those meals that feels sophisticated while being simple enough for a weeknight dinner. As I savored each bite, I realized why this dish has stood the test of time in countless homes—it’s not just a meal; it’s an experience steeped in love and nostalgia.

What is Chicken Divan

Chicken Divan is a classic American casserole that combines cooked chicken with a creamy sauce, often featuring broccoli or another green vegetable. Originating in the mid-20th century, this dish quickly rose to popularity due to its simplicity and comforting flavors. Traditionally, Chicken Divan is made with a base of cream of chicken soup and mayonnaise, which creates a velvety sauce that binds the ingredients together. The casserole is then topped with cheese and breadcrumbs, adding a crispy layer of texture that complements the dish’s richness. Not only is Chicken Divan a great way to use leftover chicken, but it can also serve as a hearty, wholesome meal that pleases a crowd with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Divan

There are many reasons to fall for this delightful dish, making it a staple in kitchens everywhere:

• Quick and simple to prepare: Everything comes together in one dish, making clean-up easy.
• Family-friendly meal: Its creamy flavor and cheesy topping make Chicken Divan a hit with both kids and adults.
• Great for beginners: With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, even novice cooks can impress their guests.
• Comfort food at its finest: The warm, savory flavors provide a comforting meal that tugs at the heartstrings, reminiscent of home-cooked family dinners.
• Versatile: Customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using different cheese for a unique spin.

Ingredients

To create this warming Chicken Divan, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Divan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and mayonnaise. Stir in the lemon juice, curry powder, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
3. Add the shredded chicken and steamed broccoli to the mixture and gently fold until all ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Transfer the combined mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top of the mixture.
6. In a small bowl, mix the bread crumbs with a bit of melted butter and sprinkle this evenly over the cheese.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Pro Tips and Variations

– **Make it your own**: Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even cooked rice to the recipe for added flavor and texture.
– **Cheese selection**: While cheddar is a classic choice, you could experiment with Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Gruyère for a gourmet twist.
– **Make it healthier**: Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise or use low-fat cream soups to cut down on calories without compromising taste.
– **Vegetarian version**: Swap chicken for chickpeas and use vegetable cream soup, still providing a hearty dish that everyone can enjoy.
– **Freezing tips**: If you plan to freeze portions, consider omitting the cheese topping until you reheat the dish.

How to Serve Chicken Divan

This dish is wonderfully versatile, allowing for a variety of serving options. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience:

• Accompany with salad: A green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the rich flavors of Chicken Divan perfectly.
• Serve with a side of rice or quinoa: These grains soak up the creamy sauce and add satisfying texture.
• Pair with garlic bread or dinner rolls: These make excellent accompaniments for scooping up every bit of the delicious casserole.

How to Store Chicken Divan

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing Chicken Divan can be simple:

• Refrigeration: Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge where they can last for about 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then bake in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps retain the dish’s creaminess and avoids drying it out.

Nutrition Information

While precise nutritional values will depend on specific ingredients used, a typical serving of Chicken Divan may provide:

• Calories: Approximately 300-400 per serving
• Protein: 25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 20 grams
• Fat: 15 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams

This dish offers a good balance of protein and carbohydrates along with healthy fats, making it a robust meal choice.

FAQs About Chicken Divan

– **Can I use precooked chicken?**
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken can save time and add great flavor to the dish.

• How do I know when it’s done?
  Your Chicken Divan is ready when it’s bubbly and the top is golden brown, which should take about 25-30 minutes in the oven.

• Can I make Chicken Divan ahead of time?
  Yes, you can prepare everything a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and bake it the next day.

• Is Chicken Divan kid-friendly?
  Definitely. The creamy texture and cheesy topping make it appealing to kids, and you can adjust seasonings to suit their taste.

Conclusion

Chicken Divan is more than just a dish; it’s a cozy, comforting meal that brings people together. This recipe is easy, adaptable, and perfect for any occasion—be it a family gathering or a simple weeknight dinner. Once you try this delightful dish, you’ll understand why it’s been a favorite for generations. Give this Chicken Divan a try, and don’t forget to share your experience and unique variations!

Chicken Divan

A comforting American casserole made with chicken, broccoli, and a creamy sauce, topped with cheese and breadcrumbs.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Casserole, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
• 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• to taste N/A salt and pepper

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and mayonnaise. Stir in the lemon juice, curry powder, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
3. Add the shredded chicken and steamed broccoli to the mixture and gently fold until all ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Transfer the combined mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top of the mixture.
6. In a small bowl, mix the bread crumbs with a bit of melted butter and sprinkle this evenly over the cheese.

Cooking

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Notes

Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even cooked rice for added flavor. You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a healthier option. If freezing, consider omitting the cheese topping until reheating.