If you're looking for a classic comfort food dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners, this Broccoli Chicken Divan recipe is a must-try. Made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, it’s baked to golden perfection in one dish. This casserole is hearty, flavorful, and great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Whether you’re a fan of classic casseroles or new to Chicken Divan, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Read on to learn how to make this comforting dish along with tips for the perfect Chicken Divan every time!
What is Broccoli Chicken Divan?
Broccoli Chicken Divan is a creamy, cheesy casserole that features cooked chicken and broccoli florets in a rich sauce made from cream, cheese, and sometimes mayonnaise or sour cream. It’s often topped with breadcrumbs or more cheese and then baked until bubbly and golden. Originally created in the 1950s at the Divan Parisienne Restaurant in New York, Chicken Divan has become a beloved comfort food dish for many. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or turn a few simple ingredients into a filling, family-friendly meal.
Ingredients List for Broccoli Chicken Divan
- 4 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 4 cups broccoli florets – Fresh or frozen broccoli, steamed until tender.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – Acts as a creamy base for the sauce.
- 1 cup mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and richness to the sauce.
- ½ cup sour cream – For extra tang and creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Brightens the sauce and cuts through the richness.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – Melty, cheesy goodness.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated – Adds a savory, salty kick.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the overall flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste – For seasoning the sauce and casserole.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers (optional) – For a crunchy topping.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted – To mix with the breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
Substitutions and Variations
- Chicken Options: You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover chicken breast, or even turkey in this recipe. It’s a great way to use up leftovers!
- Broccoli Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of broccoli, you can substitute it with cauliflower, green beans, or a mix of vegetables like carrots and peas.
- Lighter Version: Swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or reduce the amount of sour cream for a lighter version of this dish.
- Cream Soup Substitute: Instead of cream of chicken soup, you can use cream of mushroom or make your own creamy sauce using a roux (butter and flour) and chicken broth.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit the topping entirely to make this dish gluten-free. Be sure to use a gluten-free cream soup as well.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to use different types of cheese like mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
- Cook the broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets until they are just tender. If using fresh broccoli, this will take about 5-7 minutes. For frozen broccoli, cook according to package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Layer the ingredients: Arrange the cooked broccoli in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread the diced or shredded chicken evenly over the broccoli.
- Pour the sauce: Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and broccoli, spreading it out with a spatula to cover everything evenly.
- Add the cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Prepare the topping (optional): In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs (or crushed Ritz crackers) with the melted butter. Sprinkle the buttery crumbs evenly over the cheese for a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy!
How to Cook Broccoli Chicken Divan: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Pre-Cook Chicken and Broccoli: To save time, use pre-cooked chicken (like rotisserie chicken) and steam or blanch the broccoli ahead of time.
- Mix a Creamy Sauce: The key to this dish is the creamy sauce made from soup, mayo, and sour cream. Be sure to taste and adjust seasoning to your liking before assembling the casserole.
- Assemble in Layers: Layer the broccoli and chicken first, then pour the sauce on top. This ensures every bite is perfectly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs: Adding a mix of cheddar and Parmesan cheese, plus a crispy breadcrumb topping, gives the dish a delicious golden finish when baked.
- Bake Until Golden and Bubbly: Keep an eye on the casserole in the last 5 minutes of baking to avoid over-browning the top. The goal is to have a bubbling, golden casserole with a crunchy top.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the broccoli: Make sure to steam the broccoli until it’s just tender. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy and lose its bright green color.
- Using cold ingredients: If your chicken and broccoli are cold, it may take longer for the casserole to heat through. It’s best to use warm or room-temperature ingredients for even cooking.
- Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season the sauce with salt and pepper. The sauce is the main source of flavor for the casserole, so make sure it’s well-seasoned.
- Not using enough sauce: Ensure the chicken and broccoli are well-covered with the sauce, as this will prevent the casserole from drying out in the oven.
- Burning the topping: If the breadcrumbs start browning too quickly before the casserole is fully heated through, cover the dish with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time.
Serving and Presentation Tips
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve with a side salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well with the rich, creamy flavors of Chicken Divan.
- Add a side of rice: Serve the casserole over rice or egg noodles for a heartier meal.
- Garlic bread: A side of warm garlic bread is the perfect way to round out this comforting dish.
How to Serve Broccoli Chicken Divan
- Family Style: Serve this dish directly from the baking dish for a casual, family-friendly dinner. Simply place it on the table and let everyone help themselves.
- Individual Portions: For a more elegant presentation, scoop individual portions onto plates, garnished with fresh herbs and served alongside a light salad.
- Leftovers for Meal Prep: This casserole is great for leftovers and reheats beautifully. Portion leftovers into airtight containers and store in the fridge for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Presentation Ideas for Broccoli Chicken Divan
- Serve in a Casserole Dish: For a classic, homey presentation, serve the dish directly from the oven in a casserole dish. Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top for added color.
- Rustic Cast Iron Skillet: For a more rustic look, bake and serve the casserole in a cast-iron skillet. It keeps the food warm for longer and adds a charming, rustic vibe.
- Garnish with Lemon Slices: Brighten up the presentation by garnishing the casserole with thin lemon slices or a drizzle of lemon zest over the top.
Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe Tips
- Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience: Rotisserie chicken is perfect for this dish because it's flavorful and saves you time on cooking the chicken. Simply shred or dice it and add it to the casserole.
- Make It Ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then bake as directed.
- Double the Recipe: This dish freezes well, so if you're meal prepping, consider making a double batch. Bake one for now and freeze one for later!
- Customize the Toppings: If you prefer a crunchier top, add more breadcrumbs or even some crushed potato chips for a twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the casserole to prevent excess water. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature and bake as directed. - What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. - Can I freeze Chicken Divan?
Yes! You can freeze the casserole before or after baking. To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. - Can I make this dish without mayonnaise?
Yes, if you prefer, you can replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or even more sour cream for a lighter version of the sauce.
Conclusion
This Broccoli Chicken Divan recipe is the perfect comfort food that’s easy to make, rich in flavor, and a great way to feed a crowd or meal prep for the week. With tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or preparing it ahead for busy days, this dish delivers satisfying comfort with every bite. Enjoy!
PrintBroccoli Chicken Divan Recipe
This broccoli chicken divan recipe combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce baked to perfection. It’s a comforting, classic casserole dish that’s quick to assemble and ideal for busy weeknights or potluck dinners. With a crispy topping and rich flavor, this easy chicken divan is sure to become a family favorite!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course-casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded)
- 4 cups broccoli florets (steamed)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer the steamed broccoli and shredded chicken.
- Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken and broccoli, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Let it cool for a few minutes, then serve hot.
Notes
- For a healthier version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and light mayo.
- Add a dash of curry powder for extra flavor.
- Serve with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
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