Quick And Easy Chicken Divan
A quick, creamy chicken and broccoli casserole with cheesy topping, perfect for weeknight dinners and satisfying for the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli florets according to package instructions.
- Layer broccoli in a greased 1 1/2-quart baking pan.
- Boil chicken breasts for 35 minutes or until tender, then shred or dice.
- Layer cooked chicken on top of the broccoli.
- Mix cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, and lemon juice; spread this mixture over the chicken.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Combine bread crumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes uncovered until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider seasoning the chicken with garlic powder or paprika before boiling. If you don't have mayonnaise, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for a healthier option. To save time, use rotisserie chicken instead of boiling your own. Ensure the broccoli is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chicken Divan alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Noodles-Cheese Casserole for a comforting dinner. For a heartier option, consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes or until warm, but the oven will help maintain the crispiness of the topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick And Easy Chicken Divan contains roughly 1388 calories, with 49g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 81g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (97% of the Daily Value), iron (47% of the Daily Value), and calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2014mg per serving (88% 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 make Chicken Divan ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance. Assemble everything in the baking pan but do not bake. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to serve, remove from the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What other vegetables can I add to this recipe?
Feel free to mix in other vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Just ensure they are cooked slightly before layering them in the baking dish to ensure even cooking.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Cheddar is traditional, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese melts well for that creamy topping.
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).