Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe

Looking for a delicious, comforting, and easy-to-make casserole that’s perfect for dinner any night of the week? This Broccoli Chicken Divan recipe is a classic American dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, all baked together to perfection. It's rich, hearty, and packed with flavor—a perfect family favorite. Whether you're serving it for a weeknight meal or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is sure to impress! Read on for the full recipe, step-by-step instructions, and tips for customizing your Broccoli Chicken Divan.

this Recipe

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What is Broccoli Chicken Divan?

Broccoli Chicken Divan is a creamy chicken and broccoli casserole topped with melted cheese and sometimes breadcrumbs. Traditionally, it’s made with a rich sauce that includes mayonnaise or sour cream, cheddar cheese, and sometimes a condensed soup for extra creaminess. This casserole is perfect for a cozy dinner and is a great way to use up leftover chicken or turkey. Plus, it’s easy to customize with different ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary preferences!

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Ingredients List for Broccoli Chicken Divan

To make this delicious, creamy casserole, gather the following ingredients:

For the Casserole:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (steamed or blanched until tender)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom soup)
• ½ cup mayonnaise (or sour cream)
• ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste

For the Topping:

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crunchy topping)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for tossing with breadcrumbs)

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Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to your preferences. Here are a few ways to customize your Broccoli Chicken Divan:

• Chicken substitute: Swap out the chicken for turkey, ham, or even shrimp. You can also use plant-based chicken or tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Broccoli alternatives: While broccoli is traditional, you can use cauliflower, green beans, or asparagus if you prefer.
• Lighter version: For a lighter dish, use reduced-fat mayonnaise, sour cream, and cheese. You can also substitute the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
• Gluten-free: To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free condensed soup.
• Cheese variations: Try using a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for a bit of heat.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

1. Steam the Broccoli:

• Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for 3-5 minutes until they’re just tender but still bright green. Drain well and set aside. If you prefer softer broccoli, steam them a little longer.

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• If you haven’t already cooked the chicken, season it with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika, then cook in a skillet until no longer pink in the center. Shred or cube the cooked chicken and set it aside. Rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken works great for this dish!

1. Make the Creamy Sauce:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.

1. Assemble the Casserole:

• In the prepared baking dish, layer the cooked broccoli on the bottom, followed by the shredded or cubed chicken. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the chicken and broccoli, using a spatula to spread it out if needed.

1. Add the Topping:

• Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. If you’re using breadcrumbs, mix them with the melted butter in a small bowl, then sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs over the top of the cheese.

1. Bake the Casserole:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on top. The casserole should be heated through and slightly browned on top.

1. Serve:

• Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired.

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How to Cook Broccoli Chicken Divan: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick overview of the process:

1. Preheat the oven and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Steam the broccoli until just tender, and cook the chicken if needed.
3. Mix the creamy sauce by combining condensed soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, and seasonings.
4. Assemble the casserole by layering broccoli, chicken, and sauce.
5. Top with cheese and breadcrumbs, then bake until bubbly and golden.
6. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the broccoli: If the broccoli is overcooked before baking, it will become mushy in the casserole. Steam it until just tender but still firm and bright green.
• Dry chicken: Make sure to use cooked chicken that is juicy and tender, such as rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken. Overcooked, dry chicken can make the casserole less enjoyable.
• Too much liquid: Be careful not to add too much extra liquid. The condensed soup, sour cream, and mayonnaise already create a thick and creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thin, the casserole may become watery.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

When serving Broccoli Chicken Divan, consider these tips to make your meal extra special:

• Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives over the casserole for a bright pop of color and freshness.
• Serve with rice: This casserole pairs beautifully with steamed white or brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Add a fresh salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the dish.
• Pair with garlic bread: Serve with warm garlic bread or dinner rolls to complete the meal.

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How to Serve Broccoli Chicken Divan

Broccoli Chicken Divan is a hearty, satisfying dish that works well as a main course. Here are some serving ideas:

• Family-style: Serve it straight from the baking dish for a homestyle meal. Use a large spoon to scoop generous portions onto plates or bowls.
• With a side of rice: Serve with rice to soak up the creamy sauce, or serve over egg noodles or mashed potatoes for a cozy, complete meal.
• As leftovers: This dish is great for meal prep. Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.

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Presentation Ideas for Broccoli Chicken Divan

1. Garnish with parsley: Fresh parsley or chives sprinkled on top adds a fresh contrast to the creamy casserole.
2. Serve in a colorful dish: Bake and serve the casserole in a colorful, oven-safe dish for added visual appeal.
3. Add a crunchy topping: Top the casserole with golden breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a crispy contrast to the creamy filling.

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Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe Tips

• Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
• Freeze it: This casserole freezes well. Assemble it and freeze it unbaked. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
• Add extra veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables to the casserole. Mushrooms, cauliflower, or peas work well with the creamy sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?

• Yes! You can use frozen broccoli, just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the casserole to avoid excess water.

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

• Absolutely! Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, Swiss, or Gruyère work wonderfully in this dish.

1. How do I store leftovers?

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake the whole casserole in the oven until warmed through.

1. Can I freeze this casserole?

• Yes, you can freeze Broccoli Chicken Divan. Assemble the casserole, but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

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Conclusion

This Broccoli Chicken Divan is the ultimate comfort food casserole, packed with creamy, cheesy goodness and plenty of tender chicken and broccoli. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make

and perfect for family dinners or potlucks. With easy-to-find ingredients and lots of customization options, this dish is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Whether you’re preparing it ahead of time or whipping it up for a weeknight meal, this casserole is a surefire hit. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious, cozy dinner that everyone will love!

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