Chicken Divan Bake
Creamy Chicken Divan Bake features tender chicken, broccoli, and cheese in a rich sauce, baked to perfection—comforting and flavorful, ideal for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook spaghetti until al dente, then drain.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour until smooth and bubbly.
- Add chicken broth and cook, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a full boil (about 5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese and milk until cheese is melted.
- In a greased 2-quart casserole dish, combine cooked spaghetti, cubed cooked chicken, broccoli, and cheese sauce.
- Top with remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of sour cream or cream cheese. If you don't have spaghetti, feel free to use any pasta shape you like. For a lighter version, substitute the cheese with a lower-fat option or use a blend of vegetables like peas or bell peppers. This dish is versatile and can easily incorporate leftover vegetables from other meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chicken Divan Bake with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. It also pairs wonderfully with Sue'S Potatoes for a heartier side. For a refreshing contrast, a side of steamed green beans or a simple cucumber salad can enhance the overall dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but cover them to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Divan Bake contains roughly 1303 calories, with 10g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 126g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (58% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 585mg per serving (25% 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, frozen broccoli can be used as a convenient substitute. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the dish to avoid excess moisture. This will help maintain the right consistency of the casserole.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake it directly from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
What other proteins can I use instead of chicken?
If you want to switch things up, turkey is a great alternative that works well in this recipe. Alternatively, you could use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option or even sauté some shrimp for a different flavor profile.
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).