Easy Chicken Divan Casserole
A creamy, cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole with a crunchy bread crumb topping, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil chicken until tender in water seasoned with parsley, onion, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Drain and break chicken into strips or pieces.
- Boil broccoli until fork-tender; drain.
- Melt butter and mix with bread crumbs; set aside.
- Mix cream of chicken soup, shredded Cheddar cheese, sour cream, and lemon juice and heat.
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish with Pam.
- Layer broccoli in the casserole dish, then add a layer of chicken.
- Pour the soup mixture over the broccoli and chicken.
- Sprinkle bread crumbs over the top and finely sprinkle Parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker prep, use rotisserie chicken instead of boiling your own. You can substitute fresh broccoli with frozen if needed; just ensure it's thawed and drained well. Adding a dash of nutmeg to the cheese mixture enhances the flavor. For a crunchier topping, consider mixing in some crushed crackers with the bread crumbs. This dish is also versatile; try incorporating other vegetables like cauliflower.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Chicken Divan Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread to balance the richness of the dish. Consider serving it alongside Heavenly Hash Browned Potatoes In The Oven for a comforting meal. For a more colorful plate, add roasted carrots or a medley of seasonal vegetables to complete the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power until warm, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Chicken Divan Casserole contains roughly 514 calories, with 24g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (48% of the Daily Value) and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 614mg per serving (27% 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 other types of cheese in this casserole?
Yes, while Cheddar and Parmesan are traditional, you can experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyère for a unique flavor. Just keep in mind that the melting properties may vary, so choose a cheese that melts well.
How can I make this dish more nutritious?
To boost the nutrition, add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms into the layers. You can also use whole-grain bread crumbs for added fiber. If you prefer a lower-calorie option, consider using low-fat cream of chicken soup and reduced-fat cheese.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake, it may need a few extra minutes in the oven if it's coming straight from the fridge.
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).