Quick Chicken Divan
Creamy chicken divan with broccoli and Cheddar cheese, topped with crunchy bread crumbs, perfect for a comforting and easy family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Cook broccoli as directed on package; drain.
- Arrange broccoli in the casserole dish.
- Layer cooked chicken over the broccoli.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, and lemon juice; mix well.
- Spread the soup mixture over the chicken.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese on top.
- In a small bowl, combine bread crumbs with melted margarine or butter.
- Sprinkle the bread crumb mixture over the cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of chicken broth to the soup mixture. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great substitute for cooked chicken. For a vegetarian version, try replacing chicken with cooked quinoa or chickpeas. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This Quick Chicken Divan pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside St. Louie Potatoes. You can also garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Chicken Divan contains roughly 656 calories, with 25g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (50% of the Daily Value), calcium (46% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1679mg per serving (73% 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! Blanch it briefly in boiling water before adding it to the casserole to ensure it’s tender. This will give you a fresher taste and a vibrant color in your dish.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through properly.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, Greek yogurt works well as a mayonnaise substitute. It will add creaminess and a bit of tang without the extra calories. You can also use sour cream for a similar effect.
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).