Nana'S Chicken Divan
Nana's Chicken Divan is a comforting casserole combining tender chicken, broccoli, creamy soups, and cheesy topping, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lightly butter the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Boil the broccoli spears and layer them in the dish.
- Boil the chicken breasts until cooked through.
- Shred the chicken meat and layer it over the broccoli.
- Spread the cream of chicken soup over the chicken and broccoli.
- Spread the cream of mushroom soup over the layer.
- Mix mayonnaise with lemon juice and spread over the soups.
- Grate the cheddar cheese and sprinkle it over the top.
- Sprinkle bread crumbs lightly over the cheese.
- Melt the butter and pour it evenly over the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream to the soup mixture. If you're out of sharp Cheddar, any good melting cheese will work, such as Monterey Jack or Gouda. You can also substitute the frozen broccoli with fresh, just blanch it before layering. For a twist, try adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or onion powder for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Nana's Chicken Divan with a side salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Mint Glazed Carrots for a colorful plate. For a heartier option, consider serving over rice or quinoa. You could also enjoy it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nana'S Chicken Divan contains roughly 566 calories, with 20g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 962mg per serving (42% 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. Just blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before layering it in the casserole. This will help maintain its bright color and texture during baking.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
Can I freeze the Chicken Divan for later?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. It will keep for up to 2 months. To bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.
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).