Chicken Divan Casserole
Chicken Divan Casserole is a hearty, cheesy baked dish combining tender cooked chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy sauce, topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it offers comforting flavors and a satisfying texture that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare rice according to the package directions.
- Thoroughly combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, thawed broccoli, condensed chicken soup, mayonnaise or sour cream, and shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Divide the mixture evenly into two 12 x 20 x 2-inch pans.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of chicken broth or extra mayonnaise. If you need a lighter option, Greek yogurt can replace the mayonnaise or sour cream. Feel free to add spices like garlic powder or onion powder to enhance flavor. This dish can also be customized with different vegetables, such as green beans or peas, to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Divan Casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Light Tuna Noodle Casserole for a comforting dinner spread. For a heartier option, serve with crusty bread or rolls to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave portions on medium power, stirring occasionally, until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Divan Casserole contains roughly 244 calories, with 11g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (24% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A.
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 leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor to the casserole. Just make sure to shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it in the pans, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and cook as directed, extending the baking time by about 10-15 minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the broccoli?
If you prefer, you can substitute the broccoli with other vegetables like spinach or cauliflower. Just ensure they are cooked and well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the casserole. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish to your liking.
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).