Chicken Divan Recipe
Chicken Divan recipe is a warm, creamy casserole that combines tender chicken and broccoli with a rich cheese sauce, all baked to golden perfection. This recipe has stood the test of time as a comforting, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and even special gatherings. Known for its simplicity and satisfying flavors, Chicken Divan is versatile and can be tailored to different taste preferences, making it a favorite in households around the world.
A Brief History of Chicken Divan Recipe:
Chicken Divan originated in the early 20th century and is said to have been created by chefs at the Divan Parisien restaurant in New York City’s Chatham Hotel. Initially, the dish was a luxurious blend of chicken, broccoli, and a Mornay sauce, featuring cream and Gruyère cheese. Over the years, home cooks adapted the recipe to use simpler ingredients, often swapping the complex Mornay sauce for cream of chicken soup and cheddar cheese. Today, Chicken Divan remains a popular comfort food, cherished for its savory flavors and creamy texture.
Chicken Divan Recipe
Equipment
- Medium pot for steaming broccoli
- Large mixing bowl
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Oven
- Cooking spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 4 cups broccoli florets, steamed until tender
- 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream or mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Steam the broccoli until it’s just tender but still bright green. Set it aside to cool slightly.
- If not already cooked, prepare the chicken by baking, boiling, or pan-searing. Once cooked, shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream (or mayonnaise), lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well blended.
- Spread the steamed broccoli evenly across the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Layer the cooked chicken over the broccoli.
- Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the chicken and broccoli, spreading it evenly with a spoon or spatula.
- Add Cheese and Topping:Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese over the casserole.
- In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter, mixing until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle this mixture on top of the cheese layer.
- Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve Chicken Divan with a side of rice, pasta, or a simple salad.
Video
Similar Recipes You May Like:
– Turkey Divan: Swap chicken for leftover Thanksgiving turkey, keeping the same creamy, cheesy flavors.
– Broccoli Cheddar Casserole: A simple, comforting dish with just broccoli and cheese for a lighter option.
– Chicken and Rice Casserole: A hearty casserole combining chicken, rice, and a creamy sauce for a complete meal.
– Creamy Tuna Noodle Casserole: A similar classic with a different protein, perfect for tuna lovers.
– Vegetable Divan: Skip the meat entirely and use a variety of vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, and zucchini for a vegetarian twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Chicken Divan Recipe:
1. Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just thaw and drain it before adding it to the casserole to prevent excess moisture.
2. What type of cheese is best for Chicken Divan?
Cheddar and Parmesan are commonly used, but you can try Gruyère, mozzarella, or even Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
3. Can I make Chicken Divan ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just bake it when you’re ready.
4. Is there a dairy-free version of Chicken Divan?
Yes! Substitute the cream of chicken soup with a dairy-free version, and use dairy-free sour cream and cheese alternatives.
5. Can I use a different meat instead of chicken?
Sure! Turkey or ham works well as a substitute, especially if you have leftovers.
6. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole casserole in the oven.
7. What can I serve with Chicken Divan?
It pairs well with rice, pasta, or a simple side salad. Garlic bread is also a tasty addition.
8. Can I freeze Chicken Divan?
Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. For best results, wrap it well and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
9. How do I make Chicken Divan gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers, and choose a gluten-free cream of chicken soup.
10. What are some ways to add more flavor?
Add seasonings like onion powder, a dash of nutmeg, or even a hint of Dijon mustard to the sauce for a richer flavor. You can also top the casserole with fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
Conclusion:
Chicken Divan is a tried-and-true comfort food that’s both easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd. Its creamy, cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli make it a delightful, warming meal that can easily become a family favorite. Whether cooking for a weeknight dinner or making something special for a potluck, Chicken Divan brings a delicious, nostalgic flavor that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that you can modify to suit your preferences.
YouTube Video Credits:
The Stay At Home Chef
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