Description
Chicken Divan is a classic American casserole featuring tender cooked chicken breast and fresh broccoli in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. This comforting baked dish combines sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses with sour cream and mayonnaise for a luscious texture and savory flavor, finished with a golden breadcrumb topping for a satisfying crunch. Perfect for an easy family dinner, it can be served on its own or over rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Vegetables
- 4 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped)
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (steamed until tender-crisp)
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Topping
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (if using breadcrumbs)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Steam broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets until they are tender but still crisp, then set them aside to cool slightly.
- Make the roux and sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
- Add liquids and thicken: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Incorporate creamy ingredients and seasonings: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, pepper, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, and all of the Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Assemble casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer the steamed broccoli evenly, then top with the cooked chicken. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the broccoli and chicken layers.
- Add cheese and breadcrumb topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the sauce. If you choose to use breadcrumbs, toss them with melted butter and distribute evenly over the top for a crunchy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set and enhance flavors.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience and faster preparation.
- To make the dish lower in fat, substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
- This casserole is excellent served over rice, noodles, or enjoyed on its own as a hearty main dish.
