Chicken Divan Casserole
A timeless American comfort food classic. Tender chicken and crisp broccoli are baked in a rich, creamy cheese sauce and finished with a golden, crunchy breadcrumb topping. It's a one-dish meal the whole family will love.
For 6 servings
5 steps. 30 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare Ingredients & Preheat Oven
- b.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch (or 3-quart) baking dish.
- c.Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Immediately drain thoroughly to remove all excess water and set aside.
- d.Ensure your chicken is cooked and shredded into bite-sized pieces. If using raw chicken, boil or pan-sear until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), then shred.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Create the Creamy Cheese Sauce
- b.In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- c.Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a blond roux.
- d.Gradually pour in the milk and chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- e.Continue to cook, stirring frequently, for 5-7 minutes until the sauce has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- f.Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Then, mix in the mayonnaise, dijon mustard, lemon juice, curry powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Assemble the Casserole
- b.Spread the well-drained broccoli florets in an even layer across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- c.Distribute the shredded chicken evenly over the broccoli.
- d.Pour the prepared cheese sauce over the chicken and broccoli, using a spatula to ensure everything is completely and evenly coated.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Add Topping and Bake
- b.In a small bowl, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the panko breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese, and toss until the breadcrumbs are evenly moistened.
- c.Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- d.Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is hot and bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Rest and Serve
- b.Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
- c.Serve warm as a complete meal or alongside cooked rice or egg noodles.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a major time-saver, use a store-bought rotisserie chicken.
- 2Thoroughly draining the broccoli after steaming is the most critical step to prevent a watery sauce.
- 3Shredding your own cheese from a block results in a smoother, creamier sauce as pre-shredded cheeses contain anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
- 4Don't skip the curry powder! It's a classic ingredient that adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor that defines Chicken Divan.
- 5The casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
- 6For a richer flavor, try using a blend of cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack along with the cheddar.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetable Swap
Substitute half of the broccoli with steamed cauliflower florets or add a cup of sliced carrots for extra color and sweetness.
Protein ChangeProtein Change
This recipe works wonderfully with leftover Thanksgiving turkey instead of chicken.
All in One MealAll-in-One Meal
Mix in 2-3 cups of cooked egg noodles or white rice with the chicken and broccoli before pouring the sauce over for a complete one-pan meal.
Topping AlternativesTopping Alternatives
Instead of panko, use crushed Ritz crackers, cornflakes, or even crispy fried onions for a different texture and flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
The significant amount of chicken in this dish provides high-quality lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and maintaining a healthy immune system.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Broccoli is a powerhouse of nutrients, offering a high concentration of Vitamin C for immune support, Vitamin K for bone health and blood clotting, and folate for cell growth.
Supports Bone Health
The combination of milk, cheese, and broccoli delivers a good dose of calcium and Vitamin K, both of which are crucial for developing and maintaining strong, healthy bones and teeth.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving of this Chicken Divan Casserole contains approximately 550-650 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used, such as full-fat vs. low-fat mayonnaise and cheese.