Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe

Looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that brings together the wholesome goodness of chicken, broccoli, and a creamy sauce? This Broccoli Chicken Divan recipe is a comfort food favorite that you'll want to make again and again! Whether you're cooking for family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or entertaining guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Plus, with easy substitutions and variations, you can customize it to fit your taste. Read on to get all the details, tips, and tricks for making the perfect Broccoli Chicken Divan!

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What is Broccoli Chicken Divan?

Broccoli Chicken Divan is a classic American casserole dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce—usually made from a combination of sour cream, mayonnaise, or cream of chicken soup. It’s then topped with cheese and breadcrumbs, making for a golden, crispy crust. This dish became popular in the 1950s and has stood the test of time as a family favorite because it's easy to make, rich in flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights or even special occasions.

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Ingredients List for Broccoli Chicken Divan

Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:

• 2-3 cups of cooked chicken breast (shredded or diced)
• 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed and drained)
• 1 cup of sour cream
• 1 cup of mayonnaise
• 1 can of cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a little extra color and flavor)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for mixing with the breadcrumbs)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

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Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about Broccoli Chicken Divan is its versatility. You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Chicken Substitutes: If you're out of chicken or prefer something different, rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even leftover ham can be used. You can also make this a vegetarian dish by omitting the meat altogether or adding tofu or chickpeas as a protein alternative.
• Broccoli Alternatives: Cauliflower or a medley of mixed vegetables (like carrots, peas, and green beans) are great substitutions for broccoli. Frozen broccoli works just as well if you don’t have fresh.
• Dairy-Free Options: Use dairy-free sour cream and mayonnaise, and substitute regular cheese with a plant-based version to make this recipe vegan or dairy-free.
• Sauce Variations: Instead of cream of chicken soup, you can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile. If you want to make the sauce from scratch, you can create a roux with butter, flour, and chicken broth for a homemade version.
• Low-Carb Variation: To reduce the carb count, skip the breadcrumbs or substitute them with crushed pork rinds or almond flour. You can also use cauliflower instead of broccoli for fewer carbs.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s break down how to put this all together, step by step.

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you haven't already cooked your chicken, do so by either boiling, grilling, or baking it. Once the chicken is fully cooked, shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. Steam or microwave your broccoli florets until they’re tender but still crisp, about 3-5 minutes.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (if using), and some salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to create a smooth, creamy mixture.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
   In a 9x13-inch baking dish, arrange the steamed broccoli florets on the bottom. Next, evenly distribute the shredded or diced chicken over the broccoli. Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the chicken and broccoli, spreading it out evenly to coat everything.
4. Add Cheese and Topping:
   Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top of the casserole. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter until combined. Then, sprinkle the buttery breadcrumbs over the cheese layer.
5. Bake:
   Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
6. Cool and Serve:
   Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the sauce set slightly and make it easier to scoop out individual portions.

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How to Cook Broccoli Chicken Divan: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: Cook your chicken (boil, grill, or bake), then shred or dice it.
3. Step 3: Steam or microwave the broccoli florets until tender.
4. Step 4: Mix sour cream, mayonnaise, and cream of chicken soup with seasonings.
5. Step 5: Arrange broccoli and chicken in a baking dish, then pour the creamy sauce over them.
6. Step 6: Add shredded cheese and breadcrumbs on top.
7. Step 7: Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
8. Step 8: Let it cool slightly before serving.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Broccoli: You want the broccoli to remain slightly crisp, as it will cook further in the oven. If you overcook it during steaming, it can become mushy.
• Too Much Sauce: It’s important to find the right balance of sauce so your casserole isn’t too soupy. If you prefer a thicker, less creamy casserole, reduce the amount of sour cream or mayonnaise by half.
• Skipping the Cheese: The cheese not only adds flavor but also helps bind the casserole together. Don’t skip it!
• Forgetting the Breadcrumb Topping: The breadcrumbs create a satisfying crunchy texture that contrasts with the creamy sauce. Be sure to mix them with butter so they brown nicely.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Broccoli Chicken Divan is a comfort food staple, but you can elevate its presentation with a few simple techniques:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top before serving for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Serve with a Side Salad: Pair the casserole with a simple green salad or a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the dish.
• Accompany with a Bread Basket: Serve this casserole with warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls to help soak up the creamy sauce.

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How to Serve Broccoli Chicken Divan

To serve Broccoli Chicken Divan, use a large serving spoon to scoop out portions of the casserole onto individual plates. The dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or even mashed potatoes for a more filling meal. Alternatively, you can keep it simple and serve it as is, since the combination of chicken, vegetables, and cheese already makes for a balanced dish.

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Presentation Ideas for Broccoli Chicken Divan

• Layered Plates: For a more formal presentation, place the casserole on top of a bed of white rice or cauliflower rice, then drizzle with extra sauce for a restaurant-style plating.
• Individual Casserole Dishes: If you’re serving this dish for a dinner party, consider using individual ramekins or mini casserole dishes for each guest.
• Rustic Casserole Dish: Serve the casserole family-style in a rustic, oven-to-table dish. Add fresh herbs on top for added color.

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Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe Tips

• Prep Ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to cook.
• Freezing: Broccoli Chicken Divan is freezer-friendly. After assembling the dish (before baking), cover it tightly with plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
• Cheese Choices: Don’t be afraid to switch up the cheeses! Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp white cheddar would be delicious alternatives to the traditional cheddar and mozzarella.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Broccoli Chicken Divan ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and then bake it when you're ready to eat.

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the casserole.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and check that your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free.

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Conclusion

Broccoli Chicken Divan is a classic comfort food dish that's both delicious and versatile. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crisp broccoli, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. By following this recipe and incorporating some of the tips and variations, you'll be able to create the perfect dish every time. So, go ahead, gather your ingredients, and give this Broccoli Chicken Divan a try—you won't be disappointed!

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