This Creamy Chicken Divan Bake is a rich and satisfying dish, combining tender chicken and fresh broccoli in a velvety, cheesy sauce. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds the perfect crunch to each bite, making it an irresistible meal for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this easy casserole will quickly become a go-to favorite. Simple yet elegant, this dish balances creamy textures with hearty flavors, creating a comforting experience in every forkful. Serve it as a stand-alone dish, or pair it with a light salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. With its warm, cheesy goodness, this recipe brings homemade comfort to your kitchen in the most delicious way.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon paprika (for topping)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and blanch the broccoli for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Add the cooked chicken and blanched broccoli to the mixture, tossing to coat evenly.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, melted butter, and paprika. Sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Creamy Chicken Divan Bake: A Comforting Classic for the Whole Family
When it comes to classic comfort food, Creamy Chicken Divan Bake is a top contender. With its creamy, cheesy goodness, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, this dish brings together satisfying flavors in a single, easy-to-make casserole. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner, preparing a meal for guests, or looking for a delicious way to use up leftover chicken, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.
The History of Chicken Divan
The origins of Chicken Divan trace back to the early 20th century when it was first created at the famous Divan Parisien Restaurant in the Chatham Hotel, New York. The dish was originally considered a high-end delicacy, featuring carefully prepared chicken breast and broccoli enveloped in a rich Mornay sauce (a béchamel sauce with cheese). Over time, home cooks adapted the recipe, replacing the traditional sauce with more accessible ingredients like cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and cheddar cheese, creating the comforting version we know and love today.
Why This Recipe Is the Best
There are many variations of Chicken Divan, but this recipe stands out for several reasons:
1. Easy to Make
With just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish is incredibly simple to put together. Using pre-cooked shredded chicken and a quick creamy sauce, you can have everything ready in a matter of minutes before popping it into the oven.
2. A Balanced and Nutritious Meal
This chicken and broccoli casserole is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s why:
- Chicken provides lean protein, essential for muscle growth and overall health.
- Broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a superfood that promotes good digestion and immunity.
- Cheese and dairy offer calcium and healthy fats, which support bone health and keep you feeling full longer.
3. Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food
From kids to adults, everyone loves a creamy, cheesy casserole. The combination of melted cheddar, parmesan, and a crispy breadcrumb topping makes it an irresistible dish that brings warmth to the table.
4. Budget-Friendly and Great for Meal Prep
Since this recipe uses simple, affordable ingredients, it’s perfect for families looking for a budget-friendly meal. It’s also great for meal prep—make it ahead of time, freeze it, or store leftovers for a delicious meal the next day.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Divan Bake Perfect Every Time
Even though this dish is simple to make, a few key tips can help you achieve the best texture and flavor:
1. Use Fresh or Frozen Broccoli
For the best results, blanch fresh broccoli florets before adding them to the casserole. This keeps them bright green and tender without becoming mushy. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain well to prevent excess moisture.
2. Shred Your Own Chicken
While rotisserie chicken is a convenient option, you can also cook and shred your own chicken for better texture. Poaching chicken breasts in chicken broth adds more flavor and keeps the meat juicy.
3. Choose the Right Cheese
Cheddar and parmesan are classic choices for this dish, but you can also experiment with:
- Gruyère for a nuttier taste
- Mozzarella for extra stretchiness
- Monterey Jack for a milder, creamy flavor
4. Make It Extra Crispy
A golden breadcrumb topping adds crunch and depth of flavor. Use panko breadcrumbs mixed with butter and paprika for the crispiest finish.
5. Avoid a Runny Casserole
To keep the casserole from turning watery:
- Drain broccoli thoroughly after blanching.
- Use full-fat sour cream and mayonnaise for a richer, thicker sauce.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow it to set.
Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about Chicken Divan is that it’s versatile. You can modify the recipe to suit different dietary needs or flavor preferences.
1. Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly Version
- Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
- Use heavy cream instead of cream of chicken soup for a low-carb sauce.
- Add cauliflower florets for an extra veggie boost.
2. Gluten-Free Version
- Use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup (or make your own with chicken broth, cornstarch, and cream).
- Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping.
3. Extra Protein Boost
- Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky touch.
- Stir in cooked quinoa for a high-protein, grain-free option.
4. Spicy Version
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a little heat.
- Mix in sriracha or hot sauce for extra spice.
What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Divan Bake
This dish is filling on its own, but you can pair it with side dishes for a well-rounded meal:
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls – Perfect for scooping up that creamy sauce.
- Rice or quinoa – Serve over steamed rice, brown rice, or quinoa to soak up the flavors.
- A fresh salad – A simple Caesar salad, coleslaw, or mixed greens balances out the richness.
How to Store and Reheat
If you have leftovers, don’t worry—Chicken Divan stores beautifully!
Refrigerating
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Reheating
- Microwave: Heat individual portions in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Oven: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes to restore crispiness.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and delicious meal that your whole family will love, this Creamy Chicken Divan Bake is a must-try. It’s packed with flavor, loaded with healthy ingredients, and requires minimal effort—making it the ultimate weeknight dinner solution. Not only does this casserole deliver on taste and texture, but it’s also incredibly adaptable to different diets. Whether you want to meal prep, feed a crowd, or make an indulgent comfort dish, this recipe has something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Give it a try tonight and enjoy a cozy, cheesy, homemade meal that’s guaranteed to impress!
