Welcome to the ultimate guide for making a truly delightful and incredibly **Easy Chicken Divan Recipe**! This cherished dish is a flavorful and cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole that consistently brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. Forget the heavy, canned-soup versions of the past; our recipe offers a fresh, vibrant spin on this beloved classic, completely free of mayo and cream of mushroom soup. Prepare to transform your weeknight meals with a homemade casserole that’s both wonderfully creamy and bursting with fresh flavors, all without compromising on that comforting, cheesy goodness you crave.
Author’s Note
Crafting the Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Divan Without the Cans!
Growing up, Chicken Divan held a special place on our dinner table. My mom’s rendition was the epitome of comfort food—rich, deeply satisfying, and generously loaded with cream soups and mayonnaise. It was a dish that defined cozy family evenings.
However, when I began cooking for my own family, I found myself wanting to recreate that beloved cheesy, creamy essence but with a fresher, more wholesome approach. I aimed for a version that was just as comforting, yet lighter and bursting with more distinct flavors, made entirely from scratch. This ambition led to the creation of this very recipe: a no-mayo, no-cream-soup Chicken Divan that delivers all the creamy, cheesy indulgence you expect, built on a foundation of simple, fresh ingredients. It’s a testament to how classic comfort food can be revitalized for modern tastes without sacrificing its soul.
Our journey to the perfect homemade Chicken Divan begins with understanding its core components: tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a truly luxurious, scratch-made cheese sauce. This recipe streamlines the process, ensuring that even on a busy weeknight, you can whip up a casserole that tastes like it took hours to prepare. The beauty lies in its simplicity and the quality of its fresh ingredients. By opting for a homemade sauce, you gain control over the flavor profile and avoid the artificial additives often found in canned goods, resulting in a cleaner, more robust taste.
Essential Ingredients for Your Homemade Chicken Divan
Crafting this incredible Chicken Divan starts with a selection of readily available ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the rich flavor and comforting texture that makes this casserole a family favorite. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need, along with some smart swaps and tips to tailor the recipe to your preferences or what you have on hand:
| Ingredient | Swap or Tip for Best Results |
|---|---|
| Broccoli florets | Using fresh broccoli provides the best texture and flavor, but frozen florets work beautifully if convenience is key—no need to thaw them first! For a delightful change, consider experimenting with blanched asparagus spears or sweet peas. |
| Cooked, cubed rotisserie chicken | Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut, offering moist, flavorful meat. However, any cooked chicken will do. Feel free to use leftover grilled chicken, perfectly baked chicken thighs, or even poached chicken breast. Cubed cooked turkey is also an excellent substitute, especially around holidays. |
| Butter & flour | These two are the base for your creamy roux. If you need a gluten-free option, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free flour blend. The ratio remains the same. |
| Milk & chicken stock | For an extra rich and decadent sauce, replace the 1% milk with half-and-half or even heavy cream. If you’re aiming for a vegetarian dish, vegetable stock is a perfect alternative to chicken stock, ensuring a flavorful base. |
| Cheddar cheese | Sharp cheddar cheese delivers the most robust flavor, cutting through the richness of the sauce. For a milder, meltier experience, Monterey Jack or even a nutty Gruyère can also be used, adding a sophisticated twist. |
| Sour cream | This adds a lovely tang and extra creaminess without being heavy. If you prefer, a good quality mayonnaise with a tiny splash of lemon juice can provide a similar tangy profile. Full-fat sour cream also works if fat-free isn’t a concern. |
| Chicken bouillon powder | A secret weapon for deep chicken flavor. If you only have bouillon cubes, simply dissolve one cube in a small amount of warm water or directly into the milk/stock mixture as you’re whisking. |
| Dijon mustard | This is crucial! Ensure you use Dijon mustard, not yellow mustard. Dijon adds a subtle, complex tang that elevates the entire dish, providing a depth of flavor that can’t be replicated. |
| Garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley | These pantry staples provide a balanced aromatic foundation. Fresh garlic (minced) and fresh parsley (chopped) can be used for an even brighter flavor; just be mindful of quantities as fresh herbs are more potent. |
| Panko breadcrumbs & butter | Panko creates an incredibly crispy, light topping. For an alternative, crushed Ritz crackers or seasoned breadcrumbs offer a different, equally delicious texture and flavor. The butter is essential for toasting and binding the topping. |
Each of these ingredients contributes to the overall success of this Easy Chicken Divan. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the suggested swaps to find your family’s favorite combination, ensuring this recipe becomes a regular rotation in your meal plan.
How To Make This Irresistible Chicken Divan Recipe
Creating this magnificent Chicken Divan is a straightforward process, broken down into simple steps that even novice cooks can master. Follow these instructions carefully to achieve a perfectly creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious casserole:
- Prepare Your Oven and Vegetables: Begin by preheating your oven to a comforting 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly from the moment it enters the oven. Next, focus on the broccoli: cut it into uniform, bite-sized florets. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil, then carefully add the chopped broccoli. Cook it for precisely 3 minutes to blanch it—this helps retain its vibrant color and slight crispness without making it mushy in the casserole. Immediately drain the broccoli thoroughly and allow it to stand, ensuring it’s as dry as possible before assembly. While the broccoli dries, chop your cooked chicken (rotisserie is excellent here for convenience) into bite-sized pieces until you have about 3 cups.
- Craft Your Creamy Sauce from Scratch: In a small saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted and shimmering, gradually whisk in 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour. Continue whisking constantly for about 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste, forming a thick, smooth roux. This roux is the base for your rich sauce. Now, slowly begin to add the liquids, whisking continuously to prevent lumps: first, 1/3 cup of milk, followed by 1/3 cup of chicken stock. Once smooth, add another 1/3 cup of milk, the remaining 1/3 cup of chicken stock, and finally, the last 1/3 cup of milk. Keep whisking until the sauce is completely smooth and starts to thicken. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, whisking until it’s entirely melted and incorporated. Then, fold in 2/3 cup of fat-free sour cream until the sauce is silky and uniform. Finally, season the sauce with 2 teaspoons of chicken bouillon powder, 1-1/2 teaspoons of Dijon-style mustard, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
- Assemble Your Casserole: Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and evenly spread the drained broccoli florets across the bottom. Next, sprinkle the chopped chicken over the layer of broccoli. Carefully pour your freshly made, creamy cheese sauce over the chicken and broccoli, spreading it gently to ensure everything is evenly coated. This guarantees every bite is infused with flavor. Finally, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded sharp Cheddar cheese over the top of the sauce layer.
- Prepare and Add the Crispy Topping: In a separate small saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add 3/4 cup of panko breadcrumbs to the melted butter and stir constantly. Keep stirring until the panko crumbs turn a beautiful light golden brown and become perfectly toasted and crispy. This step is essential for that delightful crunchy topping. Once toasted, immediately and evenly sprinkle the panko topping over the cheese layer on your assembled casserole.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Cover the entire casserole dish securely with aluminum foil. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. This initial covered baking time allows the casserole to heat through, the flavors to meld, and the sauce to become wonderfully bubbly around the edges. For the last 5-10 minutes of baking, remove the foil to allow the panko topping to crisp up further and the cheese underneath to achieve a beautiful golden crust. Once removed from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before serving hot. This resting period helps the sauce set slightly, making for easier serving.
There you have it – a magnificent, homemade Chicken Divan ready to be enjoyed! This recipe is designed to be simple, flavorful, and a true crowd-pleaser.
Creative Variations
Switch Things Up for New Flavors
While the classic Chicken Divan is undeniably delicious, this recipe is incredibly versatile and easily adaptable to different tastes or ingredients you might have on hand. Don’t hesitate to get creative with these delightful variations:
- Curry Twist: For an exotic and aromatic kick, add 1/4 to 1 teaspoon of curry powder (adjust to your spice preference) to the cheese sauce. A squeeze of lemon juice will brighten the curry notes beautifully. This pairs wonderfully if you use grilled curry chicken for an extra layer of flavor.
- Different Veggies: Broccoli is traditional, but not the only option! Try blanched asparagus spears for a more elegant presentation, or stir in sweet garden peas for a touch of vibrant green and sweetness. Cauliflower florets or even sautéed mushrooms can also make excellent additions.
- With Rice: To make this a complete one-dish meal, stir 1 to 2 cups of cooked white or brown rice directly into the casserole mixture before pouring the sauce over. Ensure the rice is fully cooked but slightly firm to avoid a mushy texture after baking. This adds heartiness and makes it incredibly satisfying.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce in the cheese sauce can add a fantastic spicy undertone. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top with the panko.
- Different Cheeses: While sharp cheddar is a favorite, explore other cheeses. A blend of Gruyère and Parmesan can add a nutty, complex flavor, while a smoked gouda could offer a unique smoky depth.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Planning ahead or managing leftovers is a breeze with this Chicken Divan. Here’s how to store, make ahead, and even freeze your casserole to enjoy later:
- Make Ahead: This casserole is perfect for prepping in advance. Assemble the casserole completely, layering the broccoli, chicken, and sauce, and sprinkling with cheese. Do NOT add the panko topping yet. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Keep the toasted panko breadcrumbs in a separate airtight container at room temperature. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), remove the plastic wrap, cover with foil, and bake for about 35 minutes. Then, remove the foil, sprinkle with the toasted panko, and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Reheat Chicken Divan: To reheat individual servings, the microwave works quickly; cover and heat until warmed through. For larger portions or to retain a crispier topping, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, covered, until heated through. If the topping has lost its crunch, you can uncover it for the last few minutes.
- Freeze: Chicken Divan freezes exceptionally well. Prepare the casserole up to the point of adding the panko topping. Allow the assembled casserole to cool completely. Wrap the dish tightly with several layers of plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator. Bake, covered, at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, then uncover, add the freshly toasted panko topping, and bake for another 10-15 minutes until bubbly and the topping is golden and crisp. You can also bake it from frozen, covered, at 350°F for about 60-75 minutes, then uncover, add panko, and bake for another 10-15 minutes.
Perfect Pairings: What To Serve With Chicken Divan
Chicken Divan, with its creamy texture and savory flavors, pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some fantastic options to complete your meal:
Meal Prep
Lemon Rice
The bright, zesty flavor of lemon rice cuts through the richness of the casserole, offering a refreshing contrast.
Potatoes
Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Classic mashed potatoes are a perfect partner, soaking up the creamy sauce and adding to the ultimate comfort food experience.
Salads
Olive Garden Salad
A crisp, tangy salad provides a light and refreshing counterpoint, balancing the richness of the casserole.
Appetizers
Life-Changing No-Knead Dinner Rolls
Soft, warm dinner rolls are ideal for soaking up every last bit of the delicious, creamy sauce.
Print Recipe
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Homemade Chicken Divan Recipe
Chelsea Lords
25
30
55
6
servings
Equipment
- Large pot
- 9 x 13-inch baking pan
Ingredients
- 4 cups chopped fresh broccoli
- 3 cups chopped rotisserie chicken
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup flour
- 1 cup 1% milk
- 2/3 cup chicken stock or broth
- 1-1/2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese (divided)
- 2/3 cup fat-free sour cream
- 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder
- 1-1/2 teaspoons Dijon-style mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut broccoli into bite-size florets. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil, add in chopped broccoli, and cook for 3 minutes. Drain immediately and let stand until thoroughly dry. Chop the chicken into bite-size pieces to make 3 cups.
- Melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small pot over medium heat. Once melted, gradually add in 1/3 cup flour, whisking constantly until a thick paste (roux) forms. Whisk for 1 minute to cook out the flour taste. Then, gradually add 1/3 cup of the milk while continuing to whisk. Next, gradually whisk in 1/3 cup chicken stock. Add in another 1/3 cup milk, the remaining 1/3 cup stock, and finally, the remaining 1/3 cup milk. Whisk until the sauce is completely smooth and thickened. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp Cheddar cheese until melted. Add in 2/3 cup fat-free sour cream and whisk until smooth. Stir in the 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder, 1-1/2 teaspoons Dijon-style mustard, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
- Add the dry broccoli to the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking pan. Sprinkle the chopped chicken over top. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over everything, spreading to coat. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheese over the sauce. In a saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Add the 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs and stir constantly until the crumbs are light brown and toasted. Sprinkle this toasted topping evenly over the cheese. Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes, or until bubbly around the edges. For the last 5-10 minutes, remove the foil to crisp the topping further. Remove from oven and serve hot.
Recipe Notes
Nutrition Information
Calories: 488 kcal |
Carbohydrates: 18 g |
Protein: 44 g |
Fat: 26 g |
Saturated Fat: 13 g |
Cholesterol: 164 mg |
Sodium: 912 mg |
Potassium: 177 mg |
Fiber: 1 g |
Sugar: 4 g |
Vitamin A: 600 IU |
Vitamin C: 1 mg |
Calcium: 306 mg |
Iron: 1 mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation. Values can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
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This homemade Chicken Divan truly redefines comfort food, proving that you don’t need shortcuts to achieve incredible depth of flavor and a wonderfully creamy texture. By making the sauce from scratch, you elevate the dish to a gourmet experience that is both satisfying and delightfully fresh. We hope this comprehensive guide inspires you to create this sensational chicken and broccoli casserole in your own kitchen. It’s destined to become a staple for family dinners and a cherished recipe for years to come!