Chicken Divan
Chicken Divan is a classic casserole that brings together succulent chicken and fresh broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or as a comforting weeknight meal. With its rich flavors and delightful textures, Chicken Divan is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the dish) contains approximately 350 calories, 25g fat, 15g carbohydrates, and 30g protein. This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken and steamed broccoli.
- In another bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and curry powder.
- Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and broccoli; stir to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- If desired, add breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version. Additionally, swap broccoli for other vegetables like cauliflower or asparagus to suit your taste.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken Divan pairs well with a side of rice or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, serve it with crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Chicken Divan can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using raw chicken instead of cooked can lead to longer cooking times.
- Not pre-cooking the broccoli can result in undercooked vegetables.
- Overbaking can dry out the dish; keep an eye on it.
- Using low-quality cheese can affect the flavor.
- Forgetting to season can lead to a bland dish.
Helpful Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties for unique flavors.
- Make it ahead of time and bake just before serving.
- Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added freshness.
FAQs
Can I make Chicken Divan ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and bake it when ready to serve. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until needed.
Is Chicken Divan suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s stored in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I serve with Chicken Divan?
It pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread.
Can I use other vegetables in Chicken Divan?
Yes, feel free to substitute broccoli with cauliflower, asparagus, or even spinach for a different twist.
Is Chicken Divan gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensuring your soup and mayonnaise are gluten-free as well.
Conclusion
Chicken Divan is a comforting and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try this recipe for a delightful meal that everyone will love!
Chicken Divan
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets steamed
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken and steamed broccoli.
- In another bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and curry powder.
- Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and broccoli; stir to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- If desired, add breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
