Chicken Divan(Recipe Serves 5 To 6 People)
Chicken Divan is a comforting casserole featuring tender chicken breasts, broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce with a hint of curry, baked to perfection. Ideal for family dinners or entertaining, it offers rich flavors and a satisfying texture that appeals to a wide range of tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer the chicken breasts until tender, then let cool and cut into halves or pieces.
- Cook the broccoli in salted water until tender, then drain well.
- Arrange the cooked broccoli evenly in a greased casserole dish.
- Place the halved or sliced chicken breasts on top of the broccoli.
- In a bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and curry powder, then pour this mixture over the chicken and broccoli.
- Sprinkle the shredded American cheese evenly over the top.
- Mix the soft bread crumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prepare rice according to package instructions and serve alongside the casserole.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker preparation, consider using rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken breasts. You can substitute the American cheese with cheddar or a blend for added flavor. If you prefer a lighter dish, Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise. For added texture, try mixing in some toasted nuts or seeds.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Divan is delicious served over rice, which helps soak up the creamy sauce. Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a comforting side, consider serving it with garlic bread. This dish also pairs beautifully with Cheesy-Broccoli Soup for a hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chicken Divan can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Divan(Recipe Serves 5 To 6 People) contains roughly 811 calories, with 22g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (183% of the Daily Value), iron (114% of the Daily Value), and calcium (48% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1517mg per serving (66% 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 in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli can be steamed or blanched until tender before layering it in the casserole. This will enhance the flavor and texture of your Chicken Divan, making it even more delicious.
What can I serve with Chicken Divan?
Besides rice, consider serving Chicken Divan with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. Mashed potatoes also make a comforting side, while a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish. For drinks, a chilled white wine pairs nicely.
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).