Chicken Divan
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Chicken Divan, a classic casserole that brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or casual gatherings. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, Chicken Divan is sure to become a favorite on your dinner table.
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
– 1 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of about 25-30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the dish) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g of fat, 30g of protein, 10g of carbohydrates, and 2g of fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, and black pepper.
3. Add the shredded chicken and steamed broccoli to the mixture, stirring until well combined.
4. Transfer the chicken and broccoli mixture to a greased baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter until evenly coated.
6. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the chicken and broccoli.
7. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
10. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use cooked turkey instead of chicken, or Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a healthier option. Additionally, any cheese can be substituted for cheddar, such as mozzarella or Swiss, depending on your taste preferences.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken Divan pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it over rice or pasta to make it a heartier meal.
Storage and Reheating
You can store leftover Chicken Divan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months, though the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the broccoli; it should be slightly tender before baking.
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before adding it to the dish.
- Don’t skip the cheese topping for that golden, crispy finish.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don’t rush the baking process; let it cook until bubbly.
Helpful Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.
- Experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
- For added flavor, mix in some herbs such as thyme or oregano.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.
FAQs
Can I make Chicken Divan ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance. Assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake before serving.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
You can substitute with homemade white sauce or a can of cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor.
Is Chicken Divan gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your soup is gluten-free.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, peas, or cauliflower for more variety.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
Chicken Divan is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to any table. Its creamy texture and savory taste make it a perfect choice for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. With its easy preparation and flexible ingredient options, it’s bound to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Try it today and enjoy a satisfying meal that everyone will love!
Chicken Divan
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets steamed
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Add the shredded chicken and steamed broccoli to the mixture, stirring until well combined.
- Transfer the chicken and broccoli mixture to a greased baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the chicken and broccoli.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
