Chicken Divan
Chicken divan is a comforting casserole that brings together the flavors of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce. This dish, topped with a golden breadcrumb layer, is not only delicious but also a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck, offering a warm and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains: 350 calories, 20g fat, 25g protein, 15g carbs, and 2g fiber. This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the shredded chicken and steamed broccoli to the mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken and broccoli.
6. In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with a bit of melted butter for extra flavor.
7. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
10. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with homemade white sauce for a fresher taste. Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise for a lighter option, and any cheese can be used instead of cheddar to suit your preference.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken divan pairs beautifully with a light salad or crusty bread. For a complete meal, serve with roasted vegetables or a side of rice for added texture and flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Chicken divan can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the broccoli; it should be tender but still bright green.
– Don’t skip the breadcrumbs; they add a nice crunch.
– Be careful not to add too much salt, especially if your soup is already seasoned.
– Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly before combining.
– Don’t rush the cooling time before serving; it helps the dish set.
Helpful Tips
– Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick prep.
– Experiment with different vegetables like carrots or bell peppers.
– For a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper to the sauce.
– Make it ahead of time and bake before serving for convenience.
FAQs
What is chicken divan?
Chicken divan is a casserole made with cooked chicken, broccoli, and a creamy sauce, often topped with cheese and breadcrumbs. It’s a comforting dish perfect for family meals.
Can I make chicken divan ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
What can I serve with chicken divan?
It pairs well with salads, rice, or crusty bread, making it a versatile dish for any meal.
Can I freeze chicken divan?
Yes, chicken divan can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Is chicken divan healthy?
While it can be rich, you can make it healthier by using lighter ingredients like Greek yogurt and reducing the cheese. Balance it with plenty of vegetables!
Conclusion
Chicken divan is a delightful dish that combines savory flavors and comforting textures, making it a family favorite. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe for your next gathering and enjoy the warm smiles it brings to the table.
Chicken Divan
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets steamed
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the shredded chicken and steamed broccoli to the mixture and stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken and broccoli.
- In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
