Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Dinner (35-Minute Recipe)
Welcome to the world of ultimate comfort food, where creamy textures meet savory flavors in a dish that truly satisfies. Our Chicken Divan is a classic casserole, reimagined for modern home cooks seeking both ease and gourmet taste. This delightful dish is packed with tender, freshly steamed broccoli and succulent chicken, all lovingly bathed in an irresistibly cheesy and creamy white sauce. Ready in just 35 minutes, this rich, hearty, and comforting meal is perfectly suited for a quick, fulfilling family dinner on a busy weeknight, yet elegant enough to impress guests at your next dinner party!
There’s a special magic in a homemade chicken casserole – it’s more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a dish. In our household, classic casserole recipes like our Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole and Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole are always met with enthusiastic smiles and empty plates. They represent the heart of home cooking: simple, satisfying, and utterly delicious.
This recipe for Chicken Divan holds a similar cherished spot in our family’s culinary collection. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures – the slight crispness of perfectly steamed broccoli, the juicy tenderness of the chicken, and the luxurious, cheesy sauce that binds it all together. Every bite is a win, guaranteed to please even the hungriest appetites.
We invite you to try our unique twist on this beloved chicken casserole. We are confident you’ll agree that it’s an easy, cheesy, and incredibly delicious dinner that will quickly become a cherished favorite in your own home. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, eager for a second helping!
What is Chicken Divan? A Culinary Classic Explained
Chicken Divan is a quintessential casserole-style dish, celebrated for its rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying profile. At its core, it features layers of succulent chicken and perfectly steamed broccoli, enveloped in a decadent cream sauce and crowned with a generous blanket of cheese, then baked to golden perfection. The allure of this dish is immediately apparent once you take your first bite – it’s a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that speaks directly to the soul of comfort food.
The history of this popular dish traces back to the elegant Divan Parisian Hotel in Paris, France, where it originated in the 1930s. Initially a more refined creation, Chicken Divan quickly gained traction and evolved into a beloved dinner staple that transcended international borders. Today, you can find gourmet versions gracing the menus of upscale restaurants worldwide, alongside simpler, yet equally delicious, renditions lovingly prepared in countless home kitchens. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and ability to deliver unparalleled comfort.
Why You’ll Adore This Easy Chicken Divan Recipe
- Speedy Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of baking, this recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal fuss, making it ideal for even the busiest evenings.
- Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious, savory cheese sauce creates a symphony of taste that’s both comforting and incredibly delicious.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is a proven crowd-pleaser. Its inviting aroma and hearty ingredients make it a favorite among both adults and children, often disappearing quickly from the table!
- Versatile & Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. It’s a fantastic base for culinary creativity.
- Make-Ahead Marvel: Perfect for meal prepping! Assemble it in advance, refrigerate or freeze, and bake when you’re ready for a stress-free dinner.
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Chicken Divan
This section provides detailed ingredient notes and discusses potential substitution options to help you customize your casserole to perfection. For exact measurements and full instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card located at the end of this post.
- Chicken: For ultimate convenience and speed, we highly recommend using pre-cooked chicken. Crockpot shredded chicken or a store-bought rotisserie chicken are excellent choices that save significant time, but any leftover cooked chicken, diced or shredded, will work beautifully.
- Broccoli: Freshly chopped broccoli florets are preferred for their superior texture and vibrant color once steamed. However, if fresh isn’t available, high-quality frozen broccoli florets can be used; simply follow the package instructions for steaming.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: This classic condensed soup forms the backbone of our rich and creamy casserole base, offering deep umami flavor and a wonderful consistency.
- Milk: A touch of whole or 2% milk is used to perfectly thin out the condensed soup, creating a smooth and luscious sauce that coats every ingredient evenly.
- Mayonnaise: Adding mayonnaise contributes a subtle tang and an extra layer of richness, making the sauce incredibly creamy and flavorful. Any brand works well.
- Sour Cream: This ingredient is key for enhancing the sauce’s creaminess and introducing a delightful, bright tang that balances the richness of the cheese and soup. You can substitute all mayonnaise with sour cream if preferred, or vice-versa.
- Additional Vegetables (Aromatic Trio): Diced onion, celery, and minced garlic are sautéed to form an aromatic foundation, infusing the cheesy dish with a comforting depth of flavor. These simple additions elevate the overall taste significantly.
- Sauces and Spices: Mustard powder and Worcestershire sauce are crucial for adding a touch of acidity and complexity, cutting through the richness and ensuring a well-rounded flavor profile. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste, enhancing all the other ingredients.
- Cheddar Cheese: A generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese is non-negotiable! It melts beautifully, adding that signature gooey, cheesy goodness that every great chicken and broccoli casserole deserves.
- Panko Breadcrumb Topping: The secret to a perfect crunchy finish! A simple mixture of melted butter and panko breadcrumbs creates an irresistibly crispy, golden-brown topping that provides a wonderful textural contrast to the creamy casserole beneath.
Customizing Your Chicken Divan: Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about Chicken Divan is how adaptable it is! Feel free to experiment with these suggestions to make this dish truly your own.
- Crispy Topping Alternatives: Out of panko breadcrumbs? No problem! Crushed Ritz crackers offer a buttery, salty crunch, while unsweetened cornflakes provide a lighter, crispier texture. Both are delicious alternatives.
- Mustard Options: If mustard powder isn’t in your pantry, a bit of regular prepared Dijon or yellow mustard can work in a pinch. Start with half a teaspoon and adjust to taste, as prepared mustards can be more potent.
- Vegetable Swaps: Not a fan of broccoli, or simply looking to change things up? This casserole is incredibly versatile with other steamed vegetables. Try making your chicken divan with cauliflower, green beans, Brussels sprouts, peas, or even a mixed vegetable medley. Just ensure they are pre-cooked until tender-crisp.
- Herb and Spice Exploration: Elevate the flavors with additional spices. Fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary are wonderful additions that bring an aromatic depth. A pinch of nutmeg can also enhance the creamy sauce, and a dash of paprika can add a subtle warmth.
- Cream Soup Variations: While cream of mushroom soup is traditional, feel free to use cream of chicken soup or cream of celery soup if that’s what you have on hand or prefer. You can also make a homemade béchamel sauce for an even richer, from-scratch alternative.
- Cheese, Please! While cheddar is classic, experiment with other melty cheeses like Gruyere for a nutty flavor, Swiss for a milder taste, or Colby Jack for a blend of flavors and excellent melt.
- Using Frozen Broccoli: For added convenience, if using frozen broccoli, you can steam it directly in the microwave according to the package directions. This allows you to skip the stovetop steaming step, saving you a few minutes.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this casserole gluten-free, ensure your condensed soup is GF certified, use a gluten-free mayonnaise/sour cream, and opt for gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
Essential Equipment You’ll Need
You’ll be delighted to know that this incredibly easy Chicken Divan recipe requires only common kitchen equipment, making it accessible for everyone! In just about 10 minutes of active prep time, you can have this comforting meal ready for the oven. All you’ll need to gather are a large pot or saucepan for steaming the broccoli, a spacious sauté pan to create that luscious sauce, a sturdy wooden spoon for mixing, and a standard 9×13 inch casserole dish to bake your masterpiece.
How to Make Chicken Divan Casserole: Step-by-Step Perfection
This section provides a visual, step-by-step guide to preparing your delicious Chicken Divan. Each step includes helpful photo references and detailed instructions to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time. For the comprehensive, printable recipe card with all exact measurements, please scroll down to the end of this post.
Step 1. Prepare the Broccoli. Begin by adding about an inch of water to a large pot or saucepan. Bring the water to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat. Once it’s bubbly, add your freshly chopped broccoli florets, cover the pot with a lid, and steam for approximately 3-4 minutes, or until the broccoli turns a vibrant bright green and is tender-crisp. It’s important not to overcook it, as it will bake further in the oven. Remove the steamed broccoli from the pan immediately and set it aside to cool slightly.
Step 2. Sauté the Aromatics. In a separate large sauté pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, diced celery, and minced garlic to the pan. Cook these aromatics for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become fragrant. This step builds a foundational layer of flavor for your sauce.
Step 3. Create the Creamy Sauce. To the softened vegetables in the sauté pan, add the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, mayonnaise, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard powder. Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly until they are well combined and smooth. Now, stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue to cook and stir until the cheese has completely melted into the sauce, creating a rich and velvety consistency. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 4. Combine and Transfer to Baking Dish. Gently fold the pre-cooked chicken and the steamed broccoli into the creamy sauce mixture in the sauté pan. Stir until all the chicken and broccoli are evenly coated with the rich sauce. Next, transfer this delicious mixture into your well-greased 9×13 inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5. Add the Topping. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. In a small bowl, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and stir in the ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs until they are well coated. Sprinkle this buttery panko mixture evenly over the cheese layer. This topping will bake into a beautiful golden, crispy crust.
Step 6. Bake to Golden Perfection. Bake the casserole in your preheated 375°F oven for 25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly around the edges, the cheese is gloriously melted, and the panko topping is golden brown and crispy. Once baked, carefully remove from the oven.
Step 7. Serve and Enjoy! Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the sauce to set slightly. Serve warm and bask in the deliciousness of your homemade Chicken Divan. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or crusty bread.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftovers
This Chicken Divan casserole is just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping or enjoying comforting leftovers. To store, allow the casserole to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer any remaining portions to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions or the entire casserole (if unbaked, see below) in a freezer-safe, airtight container for up to 3 months. When reheating from the refrigerator, simply warm in the microwave or oven until heated through. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator first for best results, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly.
Can I Make Chicken Divan Ahead of Time? Absolutely!
Making Chicken Divan ahead of time is one of its greatest advantages, transforming it into a hearty and comforting freezer meal or a quick weeknight dinner solution. The preparation steps remain largely the same, offering incredible flexibility for your busy schedule.
- Prepare the Casserole Base: Follow steps 1 through 4 of the main recipe as normal. Steam the broccoli until bright green and tender-crisp. Prepare the creamy sauce, then combine it with the cooked chicken and steamed broccoli.
- Assemble and Store: Transfer the combined mixture into a well-greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. At this point, do NOT add the cheddar cheese topping or the panko breadcrumbs. Instead, cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Refrigerate or Freeze:
- For Refrigeration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge, uncover, add the cheese and panko topping, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
- For Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, allow the casserole to thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight before baking. Once thawed, uncover, add the cheddar cheese and panko breadcrumb topping, and bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until it’s heated through, bubbly, and the topping is golden and crisp. If baking from frozen (not recommended for best texture, but possible in a pinch), increase baking time to 60-75 minutes, covered for the first 45 minutes, then uncovered for the last 15-30 minutes, adding the topping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Divan
Is Chicken Divan keto-friendly?
Traditionally, Chicken Divan is not entirely keto-friendly due to certain ingredients. While it’s wonderfully packed with lean chicken, nutritious broccoli, and healthy fats from the mayonnaise and sour cream, the inclusion of condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, and especially panko breadcrumbs significantly increases the carbohydrate count. If you’re following a strict keto diet, you would need to make some low-carb substitutions. Consider replacing the condensed soup with a homemade keto-friendly cream sauce (perhaps with heavy cream and cream cheese), using unsweetened almond milk, and swapping out panko breadcrumbs for a cheese crisp topping or crushed pork rinds. This will allow you to enjoy the flavors while adhering to your dietary goals.
What should I serve with Chicken Divan?
This rich and cheesy casserole is already a fantastic source of protein and vegetables all on its own, offering a complete meal. However, it pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes that can complement its creamy texture and savory flavors. For a classic pairing, a few slices of warm, crusty bread are perfect for soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce. A crisp, light green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast. Other excellent options include fluffy white rice, egg noodles, roasted asparagus, or even a simple side of mashed potatoes. Don’t be afraid to get a little creative with your accompaniments!
Can I use raw chicken in Chicken Divan?
While technically possible, this recipe is designed for pre-cooked chicken to achieve the 35-minute total cooking time. Using raw chicken would significantly extend the baking time (likely doubling it or more) to ensure the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat, potentially overcooking the broccoli and affecting the sauce’s texture. For the best results and quickest preparation, always use pre-cooked chicken as specified.
How do I prevent a watery Chicken Divan casserole?
A watery casserole can be disappointing! To avoid this, ensure your broccoli is properly steamed until tender-crisp but not soggy. Excess water from overcooked or poorly drained broccoli is a common culprit. Also, ensure your cream sauce is thoroughly combined and has a good consistency before adding the chicken and broccoli. If using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw it and drain any excess liquid before steaming or adding to the sauce. Following the recipe’s exact liquid measurements helps maintain the perfect creamy consistency.
Discover More Comforting Casserole Recipes
If you love the ease and satisfaction of a hearty casserole, be sure to explore some of our other go-to family favorites!
- Hearty Tater Tot Casserole
- Cheesy Sloppy Joe Casserole
- Creamy Chicken Alfredo Casserole
- Classic Cheeseburger Casserole
- Comforting Chicken Noodle Casserole
- Fun Chili Cheese Dog Casserole
- Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumpling Casserole
Chicken Divan
Author: Jaclyn
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken diced or shredded
- 3 cups broccoli cut into small florets
- 4 Tablespoons butter divided
- ¼ cup diced onion
- 1 celery stalk diced
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 10.5 ounce can condensed Cream of Mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 375° and spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray.
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In a large pot, add an inch of water and heat to simmering. Add the broccoli and place a lid on the pot. Steam the broccoli for 4 minutes or until the broccoli turns a bright green. Remove from the pan immediately and set aside.
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In a large saute pan, melt 2 Tablespoons of butter and cook the onion, celery, and garlic for 4 minutes.
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Add the soup, milk, mayonnaise, sour cream, worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of the cheese. Stir and cook until the cheese has melted and everything is well-combined.
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Add the soup, milk, mayonnaise, sour cream, worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of the cheese. Stir and cook until the cheese has melted and everything is well-combined.
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Stir in the broccoli and chicken and transfer to the baking dish.
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Top with remaining cheese. Melt the remaining butter and stir into the panko. Sprinkle the panko topping evenly over the top of the casserole.
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Bake for 25 minutes or until bubbly and the cheese has melted.
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Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Nutrition
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We hope this expanded guide to making the ultimate Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole has inspired you to bring this timeless comfort food into your kitchen. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick family meal or preparing it in advance for a special occasion, its rich flavors and comforting embrace are sure to be a hit. Enjoy creating and savoring this delightful dish!