🤤 Easy Chicken Divan Recipe | Classic Comfort Food

Do you recall that cozy smell from a casserole, pulling everyone to the dinner table? The Chicken Divan recipe, thanks to Kylee Cooks, brings back that memory. It mixes juicy chicken, lively broccoli, smooth cheese, and a crispy topping. No wonder it has over 76,000 fans. It’s ideal for snug family dinners, offering a rich, filling dish that’s adored by all.

Key Takeaways

• The Chicken Divan recipe combines chicken, broccoli, cheese, and a crunchy topping.
• It’s a classic comfort food celebrated for its creamy delight.
• This easy chicken divan recipe is perfect for cozy dinners at home.
• Inspired by Kylee Cooks, it has garnered a large following.
• The dish is loved for its hearty and comforting qualities.

Introduction to Chicken Divan

The delicious chicken divan recipe is a beloved classic from the early 20th century. It was first served at the Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York. This tasty casserole combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce. It’s all crowned by a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Chicken Divan grew popular in the 1950s and won many recipe contests, including a major one in 1955.

A homemade chicken divan recipe usually includes five key ingredients. You’ll need chicken breasts, broccoli, cream of mushroom or celery soup, mayonnaise, and cheddar cheese. It uses about 1 ½ pounds of chicken and a large head of broccoli. The dish bakes at 350°F for 25-30 minutes. It offers around 390 calories, 25g of fat, and 34g of protein. This classic dish is both nutritious and full of flavor.

The recipe can be made richer with ingredients like chicken broth, heavy cream, Sherry or white wine, nutmeg, pepper, and Parmesan. It takes less than an hour to prepare. The casserole is baked in a 9×13 pan and is ready in 15-20 minutes. This makes it a favorite for many families who enjoy its rich taste.

Chicken Divan’s popularity waned by the 1960s, but it saw a notable revival when Julie Eisenhower prepared it for President Nixon’s 56th birthday in 1969.

This delicious chicken divan recipe is also good for you. It can be made with bechamel and hollandaise sauces too. This makes it a flexible dish for various diets. Each serving has 305 calories, 15g of protein, 22g of fat, and 14g of carbs. It adds to your daily nutritional intake significantly.

This homemade chicken divan recipe is simple and brings comfort. You can keep it in the fridge for 3-5 days or freeze it for a few months. This way, it’s easy to enjoy the creamy and flavorful casserole whenever you like.

History of the Classic Chicken Divan Recipe

The traditional chicken divan recipe has a rich story that marries elegance with simplicity. It was born at the Divan Parisien Restaurant, a gem in the Chatham Hotel of New York City. Its creation happened sometime in the 1930s or 1940s, historians aren’t quite sure.

From the start, it was a hit. This dish pairs chicken breast with broccoli, covered in a creamy sauce. This sauce might include a mix of bechamel and hollandaise, or a simple white sauce with sherry. To finish, they sprinkle it with Parmesan cheese.

Enter the 1950s, and the history of chicken divan was firmly established. It became a go-to dish for parties because of its classy look and yummy mix of ingredients. Chicken Divan was so loved, it found its way to almost every dinner table in America.

Although it lost some fame in the 1960s, it still had its shining moments. Julie Eisenhower helped maintain its reputation by serving it to President Nixon at his 56th birthday. She called it a “classic favorite” and said it was a “rousing success.”

The Chicken Divan recipe was the winning entry in a chicken recipe contest in 1955, further solidifying its place in American culinary history.

Making the traditional chicken divan recipe takes about an hour and serves 4-6 people. You’ll need 2 (10 oz.) packages of frozen broccoli. It bakes at 375 degrees for 45 minutes. This dish, with a base of roux-thickened chicken stock, blends French tradition with American comfort. It truly stands the test of time.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Divan. Recipe

The best chicken divan recipe is known for its simple yet homey charm. It suits both kitchen newbies and seasoned chefs. Its ease of preparation and great taste make it a hit for all.

This dish stands out for its nutrition too. It packs roughly 611 calories, 15g carbs, 49g protein, and 39g fat per serving. You get helpful nutrients like 1414IU Vitamin A and 978mg sodium with it. So, it’s a meal that’s both good for you and tasty.

Its flexibility fits many eating plans. Perfect for making ahead for busy days. It stays good in the fridge for 3 days or in the freezer for 3 months. This makes it an awesome, quick meal option whenever you need one.

The high rating of the Broccoli Chicken Divan recipe is worth noting. It scores an impressive 4.94 out of 5 from 309 votes. This shows it’s a top pick among many, loved by families and singles alike.

Ingredients Needed for Chicken Divan

To make a delicious Chicken Divan, you need to pick the right items carefully. They should taste great together and make a smooth, rich dish. The main ingredients for this recipe include chicken divan ingredients such as chicken, broccoli, and special creamy sauce.

Chicken

The key ingredient in Chicken Divan is the chicken itself. For the best results, start with 2 lbs. of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. After cooking, cut it into cubes to make every bite tender and full of flavor.

Vegetables

Broccoli adds not only color but also nice nutrition to the Chicken Divan. Aim for 4 cups of broccoli florets, or about 1 ½ pounds of fresh broccoli in small pieces. This will give the dish a fresh, crisp element, balancing the richness.

Sauces and Spices

The creamy, flavorful sauce is vital for this recipe. Combine 10 ½ ounces of condensed cream of mushroom soup with milk, sour cream, and cheddar cheese. Add some garlic powder, onion powder, and other spices for taste. This sauce is what makes the dish so creamy and indulgent.

Toppings

A crunchy topping is a must for Chicken Divan. Mix 3 tablespoons of Panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. This adds a nice contrast to the creamy dish, making it even more delicious.

All these ingredients – the chicken, the broccoli, and the creamy sauce – work together perfectly. They create a dish that’s not just tasty, but also inviting. With a 4.94 out of 5 stars from 309 reviews, it’s clear this recipe hits the spot.

Step-by-Step Preparation of Traditional Chicken Divan Recipe

Learn to make a tasty and warm meal with our simple chicken divan recipe. Just follow each step to enjoy a flavorful dish with a creamy feel.

Preparing the Chicken

First, cook 2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts your way. You can poach, bake, or sauté them until done and tender. Then, cut the chicken into small pieces for the dish.

Cooking the Broccoli

Then, cook about ½ lb. of broccoli florets, roughly 4 cups. Steam or blanch them until they’re crisp-tender. This helps keep the dish from getting too soft.

Making the Creamy Sauce

In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the 10.5 oz. of cream of chicken soup, ⅔ cup of sour cream, and ½ cup of milk. Heat and stir until smooth and creamy. This sauce will make your dish rich and full of flavor.

Baking the Casserole

Next, turn your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9-inch pie plate, put the chicken and broccoli in layers. Pour the sauce over them well. Add cheese or breadcrumbs on top, if you like, for more taste.

Bake for about 18 minutes, until it’s heated through and the top is golden. Serve the Chicken Divan warm for a great meal.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Divan Recipe

To make a great Chicken Divan, pick top-notch ingredients and cook with care. Follow these tips for a creamy chicken divan recipe that will wow everyone:

• Select Quality Chicken: Choose the best chicken breasts or thighs. They should be moist and cook them just right to keep them from drying out.
• Perfecting Broccoli Texture: Cook the broccoli until it’s tender-crisp. Don’t overcook it, or it’ll ruin the texture.
• Balancing the Creamy Sauce: Getting the sauce right is key. Mix the perfect amounts of cream soup, milk, and cheddar for a creamy, tasty sauce.
• Baking to Golden Perfection: Start at 350°F, bake covered for 20 minutes. Then, bake without the cover at 400°F for 8-10 minutes for a crisp top.

With these tips, your chicken divan will be a hit. From choosing the best ingredients to nailing the sauce and bake, every step is crucial.

Variations for a Healthier Chicken Divan

Turning a classic Chicken Divan into a healthier dish is easy and tasty. By using these ideas, you can make a personalized, nutritious meal. It will fit various dietary needs.

Low-Fat Ingredients

To lower the fat in your Chicken Divan, swap out heavy cream with lighter options. Try using light cream cheese or Greek yogurt. This change cuts the calories but keeps the dish creamy and delicious.

Gluten-Free Options

For those needing a gluten-free meal, choose gluten-free breadcrumbs or go without. This simple step ensures the dish remains a favorite for those with gluten sensitivities. It retains its great flavor for everyone to enjoy.

Adding Extra Vegetables

Make your Chicken Divan more nutritious by adding extra veggies. You can mix in carrots, cauliflower, or bell peppers. Besides improving nutrition, they bring color and texture to the dish. This way, the healthy recipe becomes even more enjoyable.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Chicken Divan

Keeping your Chicken Divan top-notch after it’s cooked is key. We’ll look at the best ways to store it in the fridge, freeze it for later, and warm it up again. This lets you enjoy the yummy dish more than once.

Storing in the Refrigerator

For short-term storage, use an airtight container for your Chicken Divan. This keeps the flavors fresh and stops any bad stuff from happening. You can do this for 3-5 days. It’s great if you plan to eat the leftovers pretty soon.

Freezing for Later

Want to keep your Chicken Divan longer? You can freeze it, baked or not. Wrap it really well in plastic and then foil. Or pop it in a freezer-safe container. This protects its taste and texture for up to 6 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge before you reheat it.

Reheating Instructions

For reheating Chicken Divan, slow and steady wins the race. Cover and use the microwave on medium power, stirring every minute. Or, go the oven route. Cover with foil to keep it moist and warm at 350°F for 20-25 minutes. This way, your leftover Chicken Divan will taste just as good as new.

Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve with Chicken Divan

Making Chicken Divan better than the sum of its parts involves smart pairing. Choosing the right sides, drinks, and desserts takes your meal to a new level. Here are top choices to ensure everyone loves your Chicken Divan feast.

Side Dishes

Choose sides that complement Chicken Divan’s creamy goodness. A salad with mixed greens, strawberries, almonds, and vinaigrette contrasts its richness. Roasted veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus add a hearty touch. Also, consider yellow rice with peas or dirty rice for a great mix of textures and flavors.

Drinks

The perfect drink is key. For chicken divan, try a light white wine such as Chardonnay. It blends well with the creamy sauce. For those avoiding alcohol, sparkling water with lemon or lime refreshes your taste buds.

Desserts

Choose a light dessert after your main course. A fruit sorbet in flavors like raspberry or lemon refreshes and ends your meal sweetly. Alternatively, go for a simple custard for something smooth that doesn’t overpower the Chicken Divan.

By following these tips for Chicken Divan, you’ll serve a meal that everyone loves. Whether it’s a laid-back dinner or a fancy event, these pairings make your dish shine. Enjoy the perfect bite with every taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chicken Divan

To make outstanding Chicken Divan, pay close attention. One big mistake is overcooking the broccoli. This makes it mushy. Instead, blanch or steam the broccoli until it’s a bright green and tender.

Using pre-shredded cheese is another pitfall. It has additives that stop it from melting well. Choose freshly shredded cheddar cheese for a creamy texture. It’s a key part of a great Chicken Divan.

Don’t forget to bake your dish. Baking mixes the flavors and gives it a beautiful golden crust. Following these steps avoids typical recipe mishaps. You’ll enjoy a tasty casserole every time.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chicken Divan Recipe

The Chicken Divan FAQs cover many questions about this tasty casserole. We’ll talk about changing ingredients and offer tips to make your cooking fun and easy.

• What are some suitable ingredient substitutes?

Thinking of things to swap out? Try Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Or use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Also, you can swap in turkey for chicken.

• How do I prepare the chicken for Chicken Divan?

To start, heat your oven to 450°F. Then, bake 1.5 pounds of chicken breasts for about 18 minutes. Let the chicken cool, then chop it into 1-inch pieces.

• Can I use different vegetables?

Yes, you can! Try veggies like asparagus, spinach, mushrooms, or cauliflower. This makes your dish extra healthy and colorful.

Mix 1 cup sour cream with 2 cans of cream of chicken soup. Add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon curry powder. Stir until it’s creamy and rich.

• What’s the best way to bake Chicken Divan?

Layer your ingredients in a dish and bake it at 375°F for 25 minutes. For a crispy topping, toast breadcrumbs for 5 minutes. Then, add them before your dish’s last bake.

• How should I store leftovers?

Put any extra Chicken Divan in the fridge in an airtight container. It’s good there for 3-5 days. Or freeze it for longer, making sure it’s wrapped well.

• What are the nutritional details?

One serving of Chicken Divan has approximately 454kcal, 39.8g protein, 833.1mg sodium, 2.2g fiber, and 12.9g saturated fat. Adjust ingredients to meet your dietary needs.

For those who want to become experts in making this dish. The Chicken Divan FAQs give detailed advice to help you perfect your recipe.

Chicken Divan vs. Chicken Broccoli Casserole

Knowing the contrasts between Chicken Divan and chicken broccoli casserole can make food lovers value their distinct traits. Both use chicken and broccoli as the main heroes. Yet, they differ in how they’re made and their end look.

Chicken Divan stands out with its creamy sauce. It’s filled with tastes from sour cream and cheese. The chicken is first flavored with garlic and onion powders plus sea salt. After baking, it mixes with blanched broccoli and mushrooms in a creamy blend. A top layer of Panko breadcrumbs, butter, and cheese turns crispy gold when baked.

Chicken broccoli casserole, though, is highly variable. Its toppings might be anything from chicken soup to mayo and lemon juice in a sauce. You could top it with Ritz crackers or Stove Top stuffing mix to change its texture. It’s then baked without a cover at a lower heat, sometimes with curry powder to enrich the flavors.

The Chicken Divan packs about 454 calories in each serving, with high protein at almost 40g. This makes it a solid meal choice. Chicken broccoli casseroles can have different nutrition facts because of their various ingredients and topping selections.

Whether you love the cheesy comfort of Chicken Divan or the adaptable flavors in chicken broccoli casserole, mastering their chicken divan differences helps. It guides you in picking the ideal meal for your family dinners.

Making Chicken Divan for Special Occasions

Chicken Divan is a top pick for special occasion recipes. It adds a classy touch to gatherings. It shines at holiday dinners, family get-togethers, and potlucks, making everyone happy.

Holiday Dinners

At chicken divan holiday dinners, it’s a star. Its recipe dates back to the 1930s in New York. With its classic taste, it uniquely marks festive occasions.

Family Gatherings

Family events and Chicken Divan are perfect together. It combines broccoli, chicken, and a creamy layer. It serves a good number, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys it fully.

Potlucks and Parties

This dish is great for sharing at potlucks and parties. It’s easy to move and loved by many. The crispy topping and sour cream twist make it hard for people to stop at one plate.

The nutritional stats for a serving can help guests know what they’re eating:

Making Chicken Divan part of your special occasion recipes ensures an unforgettable, tasty event.

Vegetarian and Vegan Alternatives for Chicken Divan

The classic Chicken Divan calls for ingredients like canned cream soups and mayo. But, you can make it veggie or vegan. This way, the dish keeps its traditional feel but suits plant-based diets.

While making a Vegetarian Chicken Divan, ditch the cream soups for a healthier twist. Use roasted broccoli and mushrooms for that savory taste. Broccoli, mushrooms, and even chickpeas work well here. They give a good amount of protein. Plus, you get the richness from milk, cheddar, and some Ritz crackers.

For a Vegan Chicken Divan, you won’t use any dairy. Go for plant milks and vegan cheeses to get that creamy texture. Add flavors with cannellini beans, tahini, and roasted peppers. Spices like mustard, garlic, and onion powder really bring out the taste.

Here’s how the classic, vegetarian, and vegan versions of Chicken Divan differ:

Popular Chicken Divan Recipe Variations from TikTok

Chicken Divan is getting a lot of love on TikTok. Users are adding their personal touch to this old favorite. Let’s look at some of the popular changes:

Cheesy Chicken Divan

There’s a special twist on Chicken Divan that TikTok users love. It’s extra cheesy, using mozzarella and parmesan, making it a creamy, cheesy treat. This version makes the classic even more indulgent.

Spicy Chicken Divan

For those who like their food hot, there’s Spicy Chicken Divan. TikTok cooks add hot sauce, cayenne, and jalapeños for a zesty flavor. It’s a new, exciting way to enjoy this classic dish.

Low-Carb Chicken Divan

Low-carb and keto fans also have a version to enjoy. This recipe skips the breadcrumbs and uses cheese for the topping. Veggies like zucchini or cauliflower stand in for pasta, making it a tasty, non-carb meal.

From cheesy to spicy to low-carb, these TikTok Chicken Divan versions show how flexible the dish is. Everyone can make it their own. It’s a celebration of Chicken Divan’s lasting appeal.

How to Make a Homemade Chicken Divan Recipe

Creating a homemade Chicken Divan recipe means using fresh ingredients and the right seasoning. Add in layering techniques for a comfort food. Here are the homemade chicken divan recipe steps:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start with cooking 2 lbs. of boneless, skinless chicken breasts until they’re tender. You can bake, boil, or grill the chicken. Then, cut it into 1 ½ cups of cubed pieces.
2. Cook the Broccoli: To keep the broccoli crisp, steam or blanch 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets. This keeps them from turning mushy in the final dish.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce: In a saucepan, combine 1 can of condensed cream of broccoli soup, ⅓ cup of milk, and ½ cup of shredded Cheddar cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted and the mix is smooth. You can also try adding sour cream, condensed mushroom soup, or cream of chicken soup.
4. Assemble the Casserole: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, layer the chicken and broccoli. Then, pour the creamy sauce over them.
5. Add the Toppings: Next, crush ½ cup of Ritz crackers (about 14 crackers) and mix with 2 tablespoons melted butter. This is for a golden, crunchy topping. Sprinkle it evenly over the casserole.
6. Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes. Then, take off the foil, increase the heat to 400°F (200°C), and bake for another 8-10 minutes. This makes the top golden brown.

This classic Chicken Divan recipe serves about 4 people. It’s a favorite, with 4.94 out of 5 stars from 309 votes. For the best meal, serve the casserole over rice, biscuits, or mashed potatoes. By following these homemade chicken divan recipe steps, you’ll get a tasty and satisfying dish every time.

Conclusion

Chicken Divan goes beyond just being a meal. It’s a journey filled with history and taste. This casserole dish comes from the famous Divan Parisien at the Chatham Hotel in New York. It started in the 1930s. The dish is made of tasty chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce. It’s all topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer, making it very tempting.

This dish can change to fit different tastes and needs. You can use turkey or pork instead of chicken. It can be made low-carb or keto. Using your own shredded cheese is better than buying it ready because it tastes and feels better.

It’s important to use the right casserole dish and to cook the dish perfectly. This ensures the top is a beautiful golden brown, the way Chicken Divan is supposed to be.

You can keep Chicken Divan for a few days in the fridge or up to two months in the freezer. This makes it a great meal to prepare in advance. It’s perfect for a simple family dinner or a big holiday celebration. Chicken Divan proves its place as a beloved food for any occasion.