Fast Chicken Divan
Creamy chicken divan with broccoli, cheeses, and a crunchy bread crumb topping, perfect for a quick, comforting meal that pairs well with rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli as directed on the package.
- Drain broccoli well.
- Spray a 2-quart casserole with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook the whole chicken and cut into pieces.
- Grate the Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheeses.
- Place the cooked broccoli in the casserole.
- Cover the broccoli with the chicken pieces.
- Mix together the cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and grated cheeses.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the broccoli and chicken.
- Sprinkle with buttered bread crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
- Serve hot with noodles or rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quick preparation, consider using rotisserie chicken instead of cooking a whole chicken. If you're short on time, frozen or fresh broccoli can be substituted with other vegetables like green beans or cauliflower. For added flavor, include seasonings like garlic powder or onion powder in the cheese mixture. This dish can also be made ahead of time and baked just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Divan hot, paired with noodles or rice for a complete meal. It also goes well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. For a comforting twist, try it alongside * Supreme Skillet Chicken * for a hearty feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chicken Divan can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You may cover it with foil to prevent the bread crumbs from burning during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fast Chicken Divan contains roughly 685 calories, with 11g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1008mg per serving (44% 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 fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen. Blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes to soften it before layering in the casserole. This helps maintain a vibrant color and texture.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
Absolutely! You can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier option. Additionally, using low-fat cheese can reduce the overall calorie count while still providing flavor.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover Chicken Divan can be creatively repurposed into a flavorful wrap or sandwich. Simply shred the remaining chicken and broccoli, add some dressing, and wrap it in a tortilla for a quick lunch 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).