Broccoli-Chicken Divan Casserole
Creamy broccoli and chicken casserole combines tender broccoli, savory chicken, and melted cheese, making it a comforting, family-friendly dish perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli until tender and drain well.
- Cook chicken breasts and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Spread cooked broccoli on the bottom of the casserole dish.
- Place chicken over the broccoli.
- Sprinkle shredded American cheese over the chicken.
- Mix cream of celery soup with water and pour over the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until cheese melts and starts to brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the cream of celery soup mixture. You can also substitute the American cheese with cheddar for a sharper flavor. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can be used instead of cooking chicken breasts from scratch. This dish can also be made ahead and frozen for future meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Broccoli-Chicken Divan Casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Chicken 'N Broccoli Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier option, consider serving it with rice or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, in 1-minute intervals until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli-Chicken Divan Casserole contains roughly 119 calories, with 9g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 550mg per serving (24% 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 frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli spears. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the casserole. This will help prevent excess moisture, ensuring your dish doesn't become watery.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make the casserole healthier, consider using low-fat cheese and soup. You can also add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, to increase the nutrient content while still keeping the dish flavorful.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven when you're ready to bake, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
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).