Oh my goodness, let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite comfort food dishes: Chicken Divan Casserole! I first discovered this gem during a potluck at my friend Lisa’s house, and it was love at first bite. The creamy goodness mixed with tender chicken, healthy broccoli, and that crispy breadcrumb topping – can you even? From that day on, I knew I had to recreate this dish in my own kitchen.
There’s something incredibly nostalgic about casseroles. They remind me of those chilly evenings when all I wanted was a big hug in a bowl. Chicken Divan is a particularly special one since it’s packed with protein and greens, yet it feels like such a treat. I’ve made this dish for family gatherings, cozy dinners, and even as leftovers for lunch, and it never fails to impress! So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe, and I’ll share all my tips along the way!
What’s in Chicken Divan Casserole?
Cooked Chicken: The star of the show! You can use store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience or roast your own. Just shred or dice it up, and you’re good to go.
Broccoli Florets: Not only does this veggie add a splash of color, but it’s also packed with vitamins! Use fresh broccoli or frozen for a quick prep.
Cream of Chicken Soup: The foundation of our creamy sauce! I like to use the lower-sodium version, as it keeps the flavors intact without being overly salty.
Mayonnaise: This adds a rich, creamy texture that brings everything together. You can opt for light mayo if you’re watching calories.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Because everything is better with cheese, right? I love sharp cheddar for that intense flavor, but feel free to mix things up!
Milk: Helps to lighten up the mixture a bit and makes it pourable. I usually stick with 2%, but whole milk or even a non-dairy substitute works fine.
Lemon Juice: Just a hint of acidity to balance the richness of the dish. Trust me, it makes a difference!
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: A fantastic duo that adds so much flavor. You can use fresh garlic and onions if you prefer, but these spices are extra convenient.
Black Pepper: A little kick that enhances all the flavors. Feel free to adjust based on your spice tolerance!
Bread Crumbs: This topping gives that perfect crunch! You can use plain or seasoned; your casserole will shine either way.
Butter: We mix this into the bread crumbs for that extra crispy topping. Can you smell it already?
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of freshness and a pop of color for garnish before serving!
Is Chicken Divan Casserole Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about the health vibes of this casserole. On the upside, you have that glorious broccoli, which is loaded with vitamins C and K and is high in fiber. Plus, chicken provides lean protein, helping to fuel your day!
However, let’s not forget that this dish does include mayonnaise and cream of chicken soup, which can be high in calories and fat. I recommend enjoying it in moderation and balancing it with lighter meals throughout the day. You can even experiment by using Greek yogurt in place of mayo for a healthier twist!
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
– 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup bread crumbs (for topping)
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
This recipe serves about 6 people, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week!
How to Make Chicken Divan Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is essential; we want everything hot and bubbly!
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, milk, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Whisk together until smooth and creamy.
3. Gently fold in the shredded chicken and broccoli florets, along with half of the cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is well coated and happy!
4. Pour the chicken mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly; we want every scoop to be perfect.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the bread crumbs with the melted butter, ensuring all the crumbs are coated. This is the secret to that crunchy topping!
6. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the chicken mixture, followed by the buttered bread crumbs on top.
7. Bake in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the top is a beautiful golden brown.
8. Remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before diving in. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color!
Serving Suggestions and Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily switch up this recipe! Try adding some cooked rice or pasta as a base for a heartier dish. You could also toss in some red bell peppers for a sweet crunch!
And for serving suggestions: this casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread. Dinner guests will love it!
I can’t wait for you to try this Chicken Divan Casserole. I promise it’s a winner whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. After making it, please share your experience! I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Happy cooking, my friends!
