If you’re craving comfort food that warms your heart and delights your taste buds, this Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender chicken and vibrant broccoli enveloped in a luscious, cheesy sauce, all baked to golden perfection with a buttery breadcrumb topping that adds just the right amount of crunch. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a cozy hug on a plate, perfect for family dinners or anytime you want a satisfying, home-cooked meal that comes together quickly without fuss. Every bite delivers creamy, savory goodness that makes you want to go back for seconds, and maybe even thirds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its straightforward and wholesome ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating that signature Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe flavor and texture. From the bright green broccoli adding freshness and color, to the sharp cheddar cheese that melts into a velvety dream, every element is essential to this comforting classic.
- Broccoli (1 pound, chopped): Provides a fresh, slightly crisp texture and vibrant green color that brighten the casserole.
- Cooked chicken (2 cups, cubed): The main protein, tender and juicy, soaking up all those creamy flavors.
- Condensed cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.75 ounces): The secret to the casserole’s rich, creamy base.
- Sour cream (½ cup): Adds tanginess and extra creaminess to balance the dish.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 ½ cups, divided): Melts beautifully for deep cheesy flavor, with extra on top for that golden crust.
- Milk (â…“ cup): Lightens the sauce just enough to make it silky but not runny.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances the natural flavors without overpowering.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick and depth to the taste profile.
- Breadcrumbs (¼ cup, preferably Panko): For the perfectly crisp and buttery topping.
- Butter (1 tablespoon, melted): Mixed with breadcrumbs to create that irresistibly golden crust.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Broccoli
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). While it warms, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook your chopped broccoli until it’s tender but still has a nice crispness—a few minutes is all it takes. Drain thoroughly to avoid sogginess later on. This step ensures your broccoli stays vibrant and adds a lovely texture to the casserole.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked chicken cubes with the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, and season the mixture with salt and black pepper. Gently fold in the cooked broccoli, making sure everything is evenly coated in the creamy mixture. This blend is where the magic starts, creating that irresistible, cheesy sauce that defines the Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then pour the creamy chicken and broccoli mixture right in. Smooth it out evenly and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top. This layer of cheese will melt and brown during baking, giving the casserole that classic, appealing look and extra cheesy bite.
Step 4: Prepare and Add the Topping
In a small bowl, mix your breadcrumbs with the melted butter. This buttery breadcrumb topping adds that wonderful crunch and golden finish that makes every bite so satisfying. Sprinkle it generously over the cheese layer, covering the entire surface to ensure a perfectly crisp top.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. You’re looking for bubbly hot filling and a beautifully browned topping. That golden crust is a clear sign your Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe is ready to come out and tempt everyone to the dinner table!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
While this dish is delicious on its own, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a light dusting of paprika on top just before serving can brighten it up visually and add a subtle fresh note that pairs beautifully with the richness.
Side Dishes
The casserole is hearty but pairs nicely with lighter sides like a crisp green salad or steamed rice. A simple garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also complement the creamy texture perfectly, soaking up every last bit of the cheesy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions, perfect for a more elegant dinner or when entertaining guests. You can also layer it with cooked pasta or mashed potatoes for a unique variation that keeps the spirit of the Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe alive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole flavors actually deepen and meld, making the next-day meal just as delightful, if not more so.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. After baking and cooling completely, portion it out into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months without losing its creamy texture or flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to keep the topping crisp, or in the microwave for a quicker option, though the topping might lose some crunch. Adding a minute or two extra under the broiler refreshes the breadcrumb crust nicely.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain the broccoli well before adding it to prevent excess moisture from making the casserole watery. Slightly undercook it if possible to avoid mushiness after baking.
What if I don’t have sour cream? Can I substitute it?
Yes, you can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or even cream cheese for a slightly different but still creamy texture and tangy flavor. Just keep the quantity the same for best results.
Is there a way to make this casserole healthier?
To lighten it up, try using reduced-fat cheese and sour cream, and swap regular milk for skim or plant-based milk. Adding more broccoli or mixing in other veggies like cauliflower can boost the nutrition without compromising flavor.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping, and ensure that the condensed soup you use does not contain gluten. This way, you won’t miss a thing and everyone can enjoy this creamy delight.
How can I add more flavor to this dish?
Try seasoning with a pinch of garlic powder or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard mixed into the creamy base. Fresh herbs like thyme or tarragon also complement the chicken and broccoli beautifully without overpowering the classic taste.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that brings comfort and joy with every spoonful. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and offers a perfect balance of creamy richness, cheesy goodness, and fresh veggies that will have everyone asking for the recipe. I can’t wait for you to try it sometime soon and make it a beloved staple in your home just like it is in mine!
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Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Classic Chicken Divan is a comforting casserole featuring tender chicken and broccoli in a creamy cheddar cheese sauce, topped with buttery breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or family gathering.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound broccoli, chopped
- 2 cups cooked chicken, cubed
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- â…“ cup milk
- ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Topping
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (Panko recommended)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Cook Broccoli: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the chopped broccoli until it is tender-crisp, then drain thoroughly to remove excess water.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken cubes, condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, milk, salt, and black pepper. Gently stir in the cooked broccoli until fully incorporated.
- Assemble Casserole: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and transfer the chicken and broccoli mixture into it. Evenly spread the mixture in the dish and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the melted butter, mixing until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle this buttery breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheese layer on the casserole.
- Bake: Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- Use freshly cooked chicken or leftover roasted chicken for best flavor.
- For a lighter version, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or use low-fat cheese and milk.
- To make ahead, assemble the casserole up to the breadcrumb topping, cover, and refrigerate. Add breadcrumbs and bake just before serving.
- Panko breadcrumbs add extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work fine as well.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking for easier serving.
