The Best Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe for Cozy Family Dinners

Comfort meets elegance in this classic broccoli chicken divan that promises to delight your taste buds.

Tender chicken and vibrant broccoli come together in a creamy, cheesy embrace that screams home-cooked warmth.

Weeknight dinners demand something special, and this recipe delivers comfort on a plate.

The combination of juicy chicken, crisp broccoli, and rich sauce creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a memorable meal.

A sprinkle of golden breadcrumbs adds the perfect crispy finish to this beloved casserole.

Dive into a plateful of pure deliciousness that brings comfort and joy to your dinner table.

Divan Variations for More Flavor

• Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Replace broccoli with cauliflower florets and use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a keto-friendly version.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute cream of chicken soup with coconut cream, use dairy-free cheese, and replace mayo with cashew cream.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of cream of chicken soup.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds for topping, and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Plating Broccoli Chicken Divan

• Family Feast Centerpiece: Place this golden, bubbling casserole right in the middle of your dining table as a hearty main dish that instantly draws everyone together for a comforting meal.
• Protein-Packed Companion: Serve alongside a light quinoa salad or simple mixed green salad to balance the rich, creamy texture of the chicken divan and add extra nutritional value.
• Weekend Meal Prep Star: Portion into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches during the busy workweek, providing a delicious and satisfying midday meal that reheats perfectly.
• Potluck Party Favorite: Transport in a covered dish to gatherings, knowing this crowd-pleasing recipe will be a guaranteed hit with its cheesy, crispy breadcrumb topping and classic flavor combination.

Storage for Chicken Divan Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the dish cools completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Transfer cooled casserole to a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warm. Add a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, thaw and drain frozen broccoli completely before using to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, the recipe contains breadcrumbs and cream of chicken soup, which typically have gluten. You can substitute with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

• How can I make this dish more protein-rich?

Add extra cooked chicken or mix in some diced ham or cooked bacon to increase the protein content.

• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Broccoli Chicken Divan: A Creamy Classic

• Whip Up Comfort: A hearty one-dish meal that brings warmth and satisfaction with minimal kitchen effort, perfect for busy families seeking delicious nutrition.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients like using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or adding different cheeses to match personal taste preferences and dietary needs.
• Speed Through Preparation: Requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it an ideal recipe for home cooks of all skill levels who want a quick and tasty dinner solution.
• Crowd-Pleasing Potential: Combines protein-rich chicken, nutritious broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce that appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table leaves happy and full.

Ingredients for Broccoli Chicken Divan

• Broccoli: A nutritious green vegetable that provides a hearty base for the casserole.
• Chicken: Protein-rich meat that serves as the main protein source in this comforting dish.

• Cream of Chicken Soup, Mayonnaise: Creates a rich and creamy base for the casserole.
• Cheddar Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Adds depth of flavor and creamy texture to the sauce.

• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Paprika, Salt, Pepper: Provides a blend of classic seasonings that enhance the overall flavor.
• Breadcrumbs, Butter: Creates a crispy, golden topping that adds texture and richness to the casserole.

How to Make Broccoli Chicken Divan

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Heat the oven to 375°F.

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Flavor-Packed Creamy Sauce

• Cream of chicken soup
• Mayonnaise
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Salt
• Pepper

• Cheddar cheese
• Parmesan cheese

Blend until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Arrange the Base Layer

Spread the steamed broccoli and cooked chicken evenly across the greased baking dish.

Step 4: Pour and Distribute Sauce

Gently pour the creamy sauce over the broccoli and chicken.

Use a spatula to spread the sauce uniformly, ensuring complete coverage.

Step 5: Prepare Crispy Topping

In a separate small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter until thoroughly combined.

Step 6: Add Crunchy Breadcrumb Topping

Sprinkle the buttery breadcrumb mixture across the top of the casserole, creating an even layer.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the casserole in the preheated oven.

Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the edges start bubbling.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven.

Allow it to rest for 5-7 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle and make cutting easier.

Tips for Creamy, Cheesy Divan

• Add a pinch of dried thyme or rosemary to the creamy sauce for an extra aromatic touch that elevates the entire dish.
• Steam broccoli just until bright green and slightly tender to maintain crispness and prevent mushiness in the final casserole.
• Swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers to accommodate dietary restrictions without losing the crispy topping.
• Use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken for a quick assembly and deeper flavor profile that saves preparation time.
• Experiment with different cheese combinations like gruyère, monterey jack, or sharp white cheddar to create unique taste experiences.

Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe

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4.8 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Comfort meets elegance in this classic broccoli chicken divan, blending tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a creamy sauce that promises pure satisfaction. Rich with cheesy goodness and baked to golden perfection, you’ll savor every comforting bite of this timeless casserole.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 4 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed

Vegetables:

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets

Dairy and Cheese:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Soup and Seasoning:

• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Topping:

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Seasoning:

• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh parsley
• Fresh chives

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light coating of grease to prevent sticking.
2. Create a luxurious sauce by whisking together cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and well-combined.
3. Fold in the cheddar and parmesan cheeses to enhance the sauce’s rich, creamy texture.
4. Arrange a uniform layer of steamed broccoli across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
5. Distribute the cooked chicken evenly over the broccoli layer to ensure consistent flavor in each serving.
6. Gently pour the seasoned cheese sauce over the chicken and broccoli, carefully spreading to cover the entire surface.
7. Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter, creating a golden, crispy topping mixture.
8. Sprinkle the buttery breadcrumb mixture across the top of the casserole for a crunchy texture contrast.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, watching for a golden-brown crust and bubbling edges indicating the dish is thoroughly heated.
10. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven, which helps the sauce set and makes serving easier.

Notes

• Swap mayo for Greek yogurt to lighten up the dish and add protein, creating a healthier version that doesn’t sacrifice creamy texture.
• Toast breadcrumbs beforehand in a skillet for extra crunch and deeper golden color, enhancing the overall texture and flavor profile.
• Use rotisserie chicken for a quick time-saving option that adds more complex, roasted flavor without additional cooking steps.
• Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley on top after baking to bring brightness and fresh aromatics to the rich casserole.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 355 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 540 mg
• Fat: 23 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 29 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg