Ann'S Chicken Divan
Creamy chicken divan layered with broccoli and cheese, baked until bubbly—perfect for comforting family dinners or entertaining guests craving classic flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil, bone, and cube the chicken breasts.
- Steam the broccoli until tender.
- In a large casserole dish, mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, curry powder, and cream of chicken soup.
- Layer steamed broccoli over the soup mixture.
- Add a layer of cubed chicken on top of the broccoli.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 30 minutes, until hot, bubbly, and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. You can also use fresh broccoli instead of frozen, just blanch it briefly before layering. If you prefer a spicier kick, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper or using pepper jack cheese instead of Cheddar. This dish can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ann's Chicken Divan with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Home Made Vegetable Soup for a comforting dinner. Additionally, you can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor and presentation. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or as a comforting weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture and heat evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ann'S Chicken Divan contains roughly 133 calories, with 10g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (66% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1565mg per serving (68% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken can save time and add a delicious flavor to the dish. Simply shred the chicken and skip the boiling step. This is a great option if you're looking for a quick and easy meal, making this recipe even more convenient.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with cooked quinoa or chickpeas, and using vegetable broth instead of cream of chicken soup. This will maintain the texture and heartiness of the dish while keeping it meat-free.
Can I freeze Chicken Divan?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Divan before baking. Prepare the casserole as directed, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as instructed. This is a great way to have a meal ready for busy nights.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).