Cheddar Chicken Divan
Cheddar Chicken Divan is a creamy, cheesy casserole with tender chicken and broccoli, topped with toasted almonds for a delightful crunch—perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make a white sauce with margarine, flour, milk, salt, and cayenne pepper.
- Add 1 3/4 cups of shredded sharp Cheddar cheese; stir until melted.
- Arrange cooked and sliced chicken and broccoli or asparagus in an 11 3/4 x 7 1/2-inch baking dish.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the arranged ingredients.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 to 40 minutes, or until hot.
- Sprinkle with remaining cheese and sliced almonds before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch. You can also use leftover roasted chicken for a quicker preparation. Adding some cooked mushrooms to the cheese sauce can enhance the dish further, creating a creamier texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cheddar Chicken Divan with a side of rice or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like Cream Of Chicken And Mushroom Soup for a comforting dinner. For an added crunch, consider serving with crusty bread or a light vinaigrette-dressed salad on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken divan in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out the chicken.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Chicken Divan contains roughly 723 calories, with 23g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (76% of the Daily Value), protein (46% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1097mg per serving (48% 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 fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh broccoli can be used in place of frozen. Just blanch it briefly in boiling water before adding it to the dish to ensure it cooks evenly. This will help maintain its vibrant color and crunch.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
While sharp Cheddar cheese is traditional, you can substitute it with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. Mixing in some cream cheese can also add creaminess to the sauce.
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).