This Easy Chicken Divan is a cozy dish made with tender chicken and broccoli, all smothered in a creamy sauce and topped with cheese. It’s both comforting and simple to prepare!
I love how quick it comes together—just mix, bake, and enjoy a warm meal. Perfect for those busy nights when you still want something tasty! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken works great here if you want to save time, or you can easily use leftover chicken. Shredded or diced both work well, so go with what you have on hand!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is best, but you can use frozen florets if that’s what you have. Just be sure to thaw and drain excess water before adding them to the mix.
Cream of Chicken Soup: For a lighter version, try using a cream of mushroom soup instead. It adds a slightly different flavor but still results in a creamy dish.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise gives a rich taste, but if it’s not for you, Greek yogurt is a solid substitute. It’ll make the dish tangy and a bit healthier.
Curry Powder: If you’re unsure about the curry flavor, you can skip it! A pinch of paprika or even garlic powder can add extra flavor without the distinct taste of curry.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Divan Is Creamy and Delicious?
Getting that smooth, creamy texture is key in this dish! Start by blending the condensed soup and mayonnaise (or sour cream) thoroughly. This makes the base smooth, so the chicken and broccoli get fully coated.
- When folding in chicken and broccoli, be gentle to keep the pieces intact. You don’t want to mush them up!
- Don’t overbake—keep an eye on the casserole after the first 25 minutes to prevent drying it out.
- Letting it sit for a few minutes after baking helps everything set and makes serving easier!
Easy Chicken Divan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 3 cups broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup mayonnaise or sour cream (mayonnaise preferred for authentic taste)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon curry powder (optional but traditional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooked white rice (for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 35 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll be spending about 50 minutes from start to finish to create this delicious dish that will serve your family or guests well!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your oven is ready when it’s time to bake the Chicken Divan.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the condensed cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise (or sour cream), lemon juice, curry powder (if you’re using it), and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed and smooth—this will be the creamy sauce for your dish.
3. Combine Chicken and Broccoli:
Gently fold in the diced or shredded chicken and steamed broccoli into the sauce mix. Make sure the chicken and broccoli are coated evenly in that delicious sauce!
4. Assemble in Baking Dish:
Transfer your chicken and broccoli mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread everything out evenly to ensure it cooks evenly.
5. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. This top layer of cheese adds a wonderful cheesy gooeyness to your dish!
6. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the oven uncovered and bake for 25 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and heated through. Keep an eye on it during baking so it doesn’t dry out!
7. Final Cheese Layer:
Once baked, take it out and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Return it to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is completely melted and starting to get golden brown.
8. Garnish and Serve:
When it’s out of the oven, garnish your Easy Chicken Divan with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve it hot over a bed of cooked white rice. Enjoy this comforting meal!
This recipe ensures a delicious blend of tender chicken and vibrant broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce with a hint of lemon and curry for that classic Chicken Divan flavor. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Fresh Broccoli Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli is actually preferred for this recipe. Just steam or blanch it until tender-crisp before adding it to the dish. This helps maintain its vibrant color and texture.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. It will still give you a creamy result but with less fat and more protein!
Can I Make Chicken Divan in Advance?
Yes! You can assemble the dish ahead of time, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to remove it from the fridge and let it sit for about 20 minutes at room temperature before baking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through, or you can microwave individual portions until hot.
