Chicken Divan
Chicken Divan is a comforting casserole that combines tender chicken, broccoli, and mushrooms in a creamy, flavorful sauce. With a hint of curry and a topping of melted Monterey Jack cheese, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in skillet; sauté onions and celery.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in flour and curry powder.
- Drain mushrooms and keep juice.
- Add water to juice to make 1/2 cup liquid.
- Stir liquid and soup into flour mixture; add mushrooms.
- Cook until thick.
- Arrange broccoli and cubed chicken in a large baking dish. Spoon sauce over chicken.
- Top with grated cheese.
- Bake in a 350° oven for about 20 minutes or in microwave until cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream to the mixture. If you're out of curry powder, a pinch of paprika or cumin can add a different flavor profile. You can also substitute the chicken with turkey or use a rotisserie chicken to save time. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar for a sharper taste. This dish is a great way to use up leftover vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Divan alongside a fresh green salad or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or roasted vegetables. For an additional flavor boost, consider a drizzle of lemon juice over the top just before serving. This dish is a comforting classic that works well for family dinners or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in an oven at 350°F until heated thoroughly, which helps keep the topping crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Divan contains roughly 621 calories, with 5g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1000mg per serving (43% 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 prepare Chicken Divan ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead by assembling it without baking. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
What can I use instead of cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade version using a roux with broth and cream. This allows you to control the flavors and ingredients, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Is Chicken Divan suitable for freezing?
Yes, Chicken Divan can be frozen. Assemble the dish and freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. It’s a convenient meal prep option!
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).