Chicken Divan is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that nails the essence of comfort food. This dish combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy sauce, topped with melted cheese and the crunch of buttery crackers. If you’re seeking to impress your family or friends with a hearty, satisfying meal, Chicken Divan is sure to be a hit.
Why We Love This Chicken Divan Recipe
The reasons you’ll fall in love with this Chicken Divan recipe are bountiful. Not only does it deliver incredible flavors in every bite, but it also offers versatility and convenience. You have protein, veggies, and a creamy base all in one dish, which means less cleanup and fewer dishes to wash. It’s a simple, reliable recipe that can easily become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients for Chicken Divan
To create this delectable Chicken Divan, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 2 lbs. Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 stick celery, diced
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 10.5 oz. cream of chicken soup
- 2/3 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- 2 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs
- 2 Tablespoons butter for topping
How to Make Chicken Divan
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the process of making Chicken Divan. Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper.
In a Dutch oven or a large pot set over medium heat, melt the butter. Add in your diced chicken, onions, and celery, tossing them to coat in the melted butter. Sauté for about three minutes until the chicken is about halfway cooked.
Next, it’s time to bring in the broccoli. Add the florets along with the olive oil to the pot, cooking everything together for 3 to 5 more minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. After removing the pot from heat, add in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything until well combined.
Once mixed, transfer this creamy chicken and vegetable mixture into a lightly greased 9 x 13-inch casserole dish. Make sure it’s evenly spread out. Top it with the remaining cheese for that cheesy goodness.
Cover the casserole and place it in your preheated oven for 20 minutes. After this initial baking, increase the oven temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter with the crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs and sprinkle this buttery mixture over the casserole. Bake for an additional 8 to 10 minutes, until you see a lovely golden brown crust form on top.
Finally, allow the casserole to sit for about five minutes before serving. This resting time helps to set the dish and makes it easier to serve.
How to Serve Chicken Divan
When it comes to serving Chicken Divan, the options are deliciously diverse. You can serve it over a bed of fluffy rice, which will soak up the creamy sauce beautifully. Alternatively, spoon it over warm, flaky biscuits to create a comforting and rustic meal. If you’re in the mood for something extra cozy, serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a little twist on the traditional comfort plate. No matter how you decide to serve it, Chicken Divan is sure to shine as the centerpiece of your meal.
Expert Tips: Chicken Divan
When preparing Chicken Divan, here are a few expert tips to elevate your dish:
Cooking the Chicken: If you’re short on time, consider using rotisserie chicken. It’s a quick and easy way to save some prep time without sacrificing flavor.
Customizing Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables based on what you have on hand. Peas, green beans, or corn could bring a wonderful twist to the dish.
Cheese Choices: While cheddar cheese enhances the flavor, you could experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
Make-Ahead Option: Chicken Divan can easily be made ahead of time. Simply prepare the casserole but do not bake it. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When ready to eat, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How to Store Chicken Divan
Storing Chicken Divan is simple and allows you to enjoy leftovers for days. After serving, allow any remaining casserole to cool completely at room temperature. Transfer it into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, your Chicken Divan will remain fresh for up to four days. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to wrap it tightly or place it in a freezer-safe container, where it can last for about two to three months.
Variations of Chicken Divan
One of the delights of Chicken Divan lies in its versatility. You can make numerous adaptations to this classic recipe:
Different Proteins: While chicken is the star, you could also use turkey for a post-Thanksgiving twist, or even shrimp for a seafood alternative.
Whole Grain Crackers: Instead of Ritz crackers, try using whole grain or gluten-free options to cater to dietary needs without compromising crunchiness.
Spice It Up: If you enjoy a kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the mixture for some added heat.
Cream Alternatives: For a lighter take, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt. It adds creaminess while reducing fat content.
Herbs and Spices: Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a burst of color and flavor, which balance out the richness of the dish.
FAQ About Chicken Divan
What is Chicken Divan?
Chicken Divan is a comforting casserole made with chicken, broccoli, and a creamy sauce, often topped with cheese and a crunchy breading. It’s a popular dish for family dinners due to its hearty nature and ease of preparation.
Can I make Chicken Divan in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare Chicken Divan ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking it. Just make sure to cover it well.
What sides go well with Chicken Divan?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, biscuits, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve it alongside a fresh garden salad for some balance.
How can I store leftovers?
Any leftover Chicken Divan should be cooled to room temperature and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for about two to three months.