When it comes to comfort food, nothing says "home" quite like a creamy, cheesy casserole. Broccoli Chicken Divan is a classic dish that combines the nutritious punch of broccoli with the hearty richness of chicken and cheese, all baked to perfection in a savory sauce. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner. Let's walk through how to make this beloved dish, which is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
Ingredients
Before you begin, assemble the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for a variation)
- ⅓ cup milk
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon curry powder (optional, for a hint of spice)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Steam the broccoli florets until just tender, about 3-5 minutes, then drain any excess water. This ensures that your broccoli is perfectly cooked and not too soggy once baked.
Step 2: Layer Chicken and Broccoli
In a large baking dish, lay out the cooked chicken evenly. Top with the steamed broccoli florets. The layering helps each ingredient maintain its texture and flavor during baking.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a medium bowl, mix together the condensed soup, milk, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and curry powder if using. The addition of curry powder adds a gentle but unexpected spice that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken and broccoli in the baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. The cheese will melt into the sauce, creating a creamy, dreamy topping.
Step 5: Add Topping
Mix the bread crumbs with melted butter and sprinkle this mixture over the cheese. This will add a delightful crunch that contrasts well with the softness of the sauce and vegetables.
Step 6: Bake
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the bread crumbs are golden brown.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after removing it from the oven before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly, making it easier to serve.
Why Broccoli Chicken Divan is a Must-Try
Nutritional Benefits
Broccoli is a powerhouse of nutrients, including fiber, vitamin C, and iron. Combined with lean protein from the chicken, this dish is both filling and nutritious.
Versatility
This casserole can be adapted to suit various dietary needs. For instance, you can use low-fat mayonnaise, skip the bread crumbs for a gluten-free version, or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.
Convenience
Broccoli Chicken Divan can be prepared ahead of time, refrigerated, and baked when needed, making it a perfect dish for busy days.
This Broccoli Chicken Divan recipe brings all the comfort of traditional casseroles with a healthier twist. It’s a delightful blend of textures and flavors, easy enough for a weekday but special enough for company. Give it a try and watch it become a new family favorite!
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Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Broccoli Chicken Divan is a classic comfort dish, combining tender chicken and broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a wholesome family meal, promising both nutrition and great taste.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- ⅓ cup milk
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Steam broccoli until just tender, about 5 minutes; drain well.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, milk, mayonnaise, and curry powder.
- In a greased baking dish, layer the broccoli and shredded chicken. Pour the soup mixture over the top.
- Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole. Top with cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise and use low-fat cheese.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ⅙ of dish
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 790mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
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