Chicken divan casserole
Chicken Divan Casserole is a classic comfort food that brings together tender chicken, steamed broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce, all baked to bubbly perfection. The mix of soft chicken…
Tip: save now, cook later.Chicken Divan Casserole is a classic comfort food that brings together tender chicken, steamed broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce, all baked to bubbly perfection. The mix of soft chicken and veggies with a cheesy, slightly tangy topping makes for a dish that’s both satisfying and homey.
I love making this casserole when I want something easy but still feel like I’m serving something special. It’s the kind of meal that warms you up and fills the kitchen with the smell of cheesy goodness. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some broccoli into the meal without anyone complaining!
One of my favorite ways to serve Chicken Divan Casserole is with a simple side salad or some buttery dinner rolls. It works as a hearty weeknight dinner or a cozy dish to bring along to potlucks. I always end up making a little extra because it tastes even better the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using cooked chicken breast keeps the casserole hearty and tender. Feel free to swap in rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey for extra convenience and flavor.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli steamed until just tender works best to keep a nice bite. Frozen broccoli can save time but should be thawed and drained well to avoid sogginess.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This gives creaminess and flavor. You can replace it with cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce for a fresher taste.
Mayonnaise: Adds richness to the sauce; plain Greek yogurt can be a lighter substitute, but it may change the flavor slightly.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor and meltiness. Parmesan adds a nice nutty kick. Feel free to mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for different textures.
Breadcrumbs: Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs bring crunch and flavor. Panko works well for a lighter, crispier topping. If gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
How Do I Get a Crispy, Golden Topping Without Burning the Casserole?
Half the joy of Chicken Divan is the crunchy cheese and breadcrumb crust. To get this just right:
- Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter to help them brown evenly and add flavor.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole evenly, then add the last bit of cheese on top for a golden melt.
- Bake uncovered, so steam can escape and the top crisps up instead of sogging.
- If the topping isn’t browned enough near the end, switch to broil for 1-2 minutes—but watch carefully to avoid burning.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch casserole dish – perfect size for even cooking and serving the whole family.
- Large mixing bowl – to combine your sauce and ingredients smoothly without spills.
- Steamer basket or pot with lid – for steaming broccoli just until tender without losing color.
- Measuring cups and spoons – accuracy helps keep the flavors balanced.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for folding ingredients gently and scraping the bowl.
- Small bowl – handy for mixing breadcrumbs and melted butter to get a crisp topping.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked turkey or ham – both work well and add a different twist for leftovers or holidays.
- Add cooked mushrooms or sautéed onions – these bring extra depth and a touch of sweetness to the casserole.
- Use Swiss or Gruyère cheese instead of cheddar – these melt smoothly and add a nutty flavor that pairs nicely with broccoli.
- Mix in cooked rice or small pasta shapes – for a heartier casserole that’s great for stretching meals.
Chicken Divan Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (steamed until just tender)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs or panko
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Divan Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 25-30 minutes to bake. Overall, expect around 45 minutes from start to finish, including a short resting time after baking to let it set slightly before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Sauce
In a large bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir everything until smooth and well combined.
3. Combine Chicken and Broccoli
Fold the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese gently into the sauce mixture, making sure everything is evenly coated.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Pour the chicken and broccoli mix evenly into your prepared casserole dish. Smooth the top with a spatula.
5. Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs with melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole. Then, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
6. Bake and Serve
Bake the casserole uncovered in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling hot. When done, remove from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a fresh touch.
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw and drain the frozen broccoli well to avoid extra moisture that can make the casserole soggy. Steam it lightly before adding for the best texture.
Can I Make Chicken Divan Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole and cover it tightly, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it’s going into the oven cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if the casserole seems dry.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can use cream of mushroom soup or make a simple homemade white sauce with butter, flour, and milk for a fresher alternative.
