If you’re craving a warm, comforting meal that the whole family will love, look no further than Chicken Divan Casserole. This classic dish combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce, all topped with a crunchy golden crust. It’s an easy recipe to prepare and perfect for any weeknight dinner. Whether you serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or biscuits, Chicken Divan Casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
What Is Chicken Divan Casserole?
Chicken Divan Casserole is a classic American dish made with chicken, broccoli, and a creamy sauce. The dish is often baked with a crispy topping made of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, providing a satisfying contrast to the creamy filling. Traditionally, this casserole uses ingredients like chicken, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, and seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder.
The dish is named after the Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York City, where it was first served in the 20th century. Over the years, Chicken Divan Casserole has become a staple in many households, loved for its comforting flavors and versatility.
Main Ingredients for Chicken Divan Casserole
To make the perfect Chicken Divan Casserole, you’ll need a few basic ingredients. Below is a list of the key components for this dish, along with some helpful tips on substitutions if necessary.
1. Chicken
- Type: You can use leftover cooked chicken, or you can cook fresh chicken breasts or thighs. If using uncooked chicken, you can sauté it or bake it before adding it to the casserole.
- Amount: About 2 pounds of chicken, or 4 cups of cooked, shredded chicken.
2. Broccoli
- Fresh or Frozen: Fresh broccoli florets are ideal, but frozen broccoli works just as well. If using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw it and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture.
- Preparation: Cut the broccoli into florets before adding it to the casserole.
3. Cream Sauce
- Cream of Chicken Soup: A can of cream of chicken soup serves as the base of the sauce, giving the casserole its creamy texture.
- Sour Cream: Adds tang and richness to the sauce. You can also use mayonnaise as a substitute if you prefer.
- Milk: To thin out the sauce and create a smooth consistency.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese is the most common choice, but other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack work well too.
4. Seasonings
- Garlic Powder: Adds savory flavor to the sauce.
- Onion Powder: Brings a mild onion flavor.
- Mustard Powder: A small amount adds a slight tanginess and depth to the sauce.
5. Crunchy Topping
- Ritz Crackers: Crushed Ritz crackers are used to create a buttery, crispy topping. Panko breadcrumbs can be substituted for a lighter crunch.
- Butter: Used to mix with the crackers to make the topping golden and delicious.
Ingredients for Chicken Divan Casserole
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 4 cups diced or 3 medium chicken breasts)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 stick celery, diced
- 4 cups broccoli florets (about ½ lb.)
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
- 2/3 cup sour cream (or mayonnaise)
- ½ cup milk (or heavy cream for a richer version)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- 2 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Topping:
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers (or panko breadcrumbs)
- 2 Tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions for Chicken Divan Casserole
Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the chicken: Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Sauté the chicken and veggies: In a large Dutch oven or pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chicken, onions, and celery. Toss to coat and sauté for 3 minutes, or until the chicken is about halfway cooked. Add the broccoli and 1 tablespoon olive oil, then cook for another 3-5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
Prepare the cream sauce: Remove the pot from heat. In the same pot, add the cream of chicken soup, sour cream (or mayonnaise), milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder. Stir until everything is well combined.
Assemble the casserole: Transfer the chicken and broccoli mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Top with half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake: Cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
Prepare the topping: While the casserole is baking, melt the butter in a small bowl. Mix it with the crushed Ritz crackers (or panko breadcrumbs).
Add the topping: After 20 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven. Uncover it and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, followed by the cracker topping.
Final bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake at 400°F for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or biscuits.
Notes
- Using Leftover Chicken: If you have cooked chicken, you can skip the sautéing step. Simply shred or dice the leftover chicken and combine it with the other ingredients.
- Frozen Broccoli: If using frozen broccoli, thaw and pat it dry before adding it to the casserole. It’s not necessary to sauté frozen broccoli since it’s already partially cooked.
- Dairy-Free Version: If you need a dairy-free casserole, substitute the sour cream with dairy-free sour cream or mayonnaise. Use dairy-free cheese alternatives for the topping.
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or mushrooms to the casserole for added flavor and nutrients.
- Making Ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to 2 days in advance. Just cover and refrigerate before baking. If baking from a cold state, add an extra 15 minutes of covered baking time.
- Freezing: This casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Assemble it, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F for about 45 minutes, or until heated through.
How to Make Chicken Divan Casserole
Now that you know what goes into this casserole, it’s time to dive into the preparation process. Follow these easy steps to make a delicious Chicken Divan Casserole that will impress your family.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli
Start by cooking your chicken. If you’re using uncooked chicken breasts, dice them into bite-sized pieces and sauté them in a bit of butter or olive oil over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, until they are fully cooked. Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
While the chicken is cooking, steam or cook your broccoli. If you’re using fresh broccoli, steam it until it’s tender but still firm, about 5-6 minutes. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and pat it dry before adding it to the casserole.
Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream (or mayo), milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Once the chicken and broccoli are prepared, it’s time to assemble the casserole. In a large 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the chicken and broccoli evenly. Pour the cream sauce over the chicken and broccoli, ensuring everything is coated evenly.
Top the casserole with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Then, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Topping
After the casserole has baked for 20 minutes, remove it from the oven. Uncover the casserole and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top. In a small bowl, melt the butter and mix it with the crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole to create a crunchy topping.
Return the casserole to the oven and bake at 400°F for an additional 8-10 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will allow the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve. You can serve Chicken Divan Casserole over rice, mashed potatoes, or biscuits for a complete meal.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Chicken Divan Casserole
While Chicken Divan Casserole is a simple dish, here are a few tips to ensure it turns out perfect every time.
- Use Leftover Chicken: If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken from another meal, this casserole is a great way to use it up.
- Frozen vs. Fresh Broccoli: While fresh broccoli is ideal, frozen broccoli can be used in a pinch. Be sure to thaw it first and dry it well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- Customize the Cheese: While cheddar cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or a sharp blue cheese for unique flavor combinations.
- Make It Spicy: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream sauce or top the casserole with some jalapeños before baking.
Make-Ahead Method for Chicken Divan Casserole
This casserole is perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time. Here’s how:
- Prepare the Casserole: Follow the recipe through to the point of adding the topping, but do not bake it.
- Refrigerate: Cover the casserole with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.
- Bake: When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 15 minutes to the covered baking time since the casserole will be cold from the fridge. Then, uncover and proceed with the final step of adding the topping and baking until golden.
Variations and Customization Options for Chicken Divan Casserole
While the classic Chicken Divan Casserole is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to tweak the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. From swapping out ingredients to adding new flavors, here are some variations that can make this dish even more versatile.
1. Vegetarian Chicken Divan
If you’re looking for a vegetarian version of Chicken Divan, you can easily swap the chicken with plant-based alternatives. There are several options available that mimic the texture and flavor of chicken, such as:
- Tofu: Press and cube firm tofu, then sauté it in a little olive oil until golden. It will absorb the flavor of the sauce and make for a hearty substitute.
- Seitan: Seitan is a wheat-based protein that has a chewy texture similar to meat. You can sauté seitan chunks in the same way you would with chicken.
- Lentils or Chickpeas: If you prefer legumes, try using cooked lentils or chickpeas in place of the chicken. These provide protein and fiber while complementing the creaminess of the casserole.
For the best texture, I recommend marinating the plant-based protein in some of the seasonings before cooking it to enhance the flavor.
2. Low-Carb/ Keto Chicken Divan
To make a low-carb or keto-friendly version of Chicken Divan, you’ll need to make a few adjustments to reduce the carb content:
- Replace the Cracker Topping: Instead of using Ritz crackers, use crushed pork rinds or almond flour-based breadcrumbs. These alternatives provide the same crunch without the carbs.
- Skip the Milk: You can substitute the milk with heavy cream or unsweetened almond milk to reduce the carb content while keeping the casserole creamy.
- Add More Veggies: If you’re following a keto diet, you can add more low-carb vegetables to the casserole, such as zucchini or cauliflower, in addition to the broccoli.
This version will keep the dish satisfying without compromising on flavor or texture.
3. Dairy-Free Chicken Divan
If you’re lactose intolerant or following a dairy-free diet, Chicken Divan can still be made without any dairy products. Here’s how:
- Replace the Dairy Ingredients: Swap out the sour cream and milk for dairy-free alternatives. Use coconut milk or almond milk for the milk, and opt for dairy-free sour cream or mayonnaise in place of the regular sour cream.
- Cheese Alternatives: For the cheesy topping, try using a dairy-free cheese that melts well. Brands like Daiya or Violife offer great dairy-free cheese options that work wonderfully in casseroles.
The creamy texture and flavor will still be rich and satisfying, even without dairy.
4. Spicy Chicken Divan
For those who enjoy a little spice, adding some heat to your Chicken Divan Casserole is a great way to enhance the flavor. Here are some ideas to kick up the heat:
- Jalapeños: Dice fresh jalapeños and mix them into the cream sauce, or sprinkle some on top of the casserole before baking.
- Hot Sauce: Add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a more even, spicy flavor throughout the dish.
- Chili Powder or Cayenne: If you prefer a more subdued spice, try adding a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a subtle heat.
You can easily adjust the amount of heat to your liking, depending on how spicy you like your food.
5. Make It with Rotisserie Chicken
If you’re in a time crunch and don’t want to cook the chicken from scratch, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. It adds a depth of flavor and cuts down on preparation time. Simply shred the rotisserie chicken and use it in place of cooked chicken in the recipe. This makes the casserole even faster to prepare, without sacrificing any flavor.
Be sure to remove the skin and any bones from the rotisserie chicken before adding it to the casserole, and feel free to use the leftover chicken for other recipes throughout the week.
6. Adding Extra Veggies
To make this casserole even more nutritious, feel free to add additional vegetables. In addition to broccoli, you can incorporate other vegetables like:
- Cauliflower: Cauliflower florets make an excellent addition to Chicken Divan, as they are low in carbs and have a mild flavor that blends well with the creamy sauce.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add a savory, earthy flavor that complements the cream sauce and chicken beautifully.
- Carrots: Grated or diced carrots can add color and sweetness to the dish, while providing additional vitamins and fiber.
7. Chicken Divan with a Creamy Pesto Twist
For a Mediterranean twist on the traditional Chicken Divan, you can incorporate pesto into the sauce. Simply mix a few tablespoons of store-bought or homemade pesto into the cream sauce before adding it to the casserole. The basil, garlic, and olive oil in the pesto will add a fresh, herbaceous flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
Nutritional Information for Chicken Divan Casserole
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content for one serving of Chicken Divan Casserole (assuming the recipe serves 6):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 611 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Protein | 49g |
| Fat | 39g |
| Saturated Fat | 20g |
| Trans Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 186mg |
| Sodium | 978mg |
| Potassium | 927mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Vitamin A | 1414 IU |
| Vitamin C | 58mg |
| Calcium | 449mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
Tips for Making Chicken Divan Casserole Perfect Every Time
While Chicken Divan Casserole is easy to make, here are a few extra tips to ensure the casserole comes out perfectly:
- Do Not Overcook the Chicken: When cooking the chicken, avoid overcooking it to ensure it stays juicy and tender. Overcooked chicken can dry out during the baking process.
- Keep the Broccoli Crisp: Broccoli can get mushy if it’s overcooked. Steaming it just until tender but still slightly firm will help it retain its texture in the casserole.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh seasonings and quality cheese. Freshly grated cheese will melt better and add a richer taste.
- Rest the Casserole Before Serving: Letting the casserole sit for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven will allow the sauce to thicken and make it easier to serve.
Storing and Reheating Chicken Divan Casserole
Chicken Divan Casserole is the perfect make-ahead dish. Not only does it store well, but it also reheats beautifully, making it an ideal option for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat this delicious casserole:
Storing Leftovers
Refrigeration: After serving, allow the casserole to cool to room temperature. Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover the casserole tightly to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing: If you’d like to freeze the casserole for later, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. This will help prevent freezer burn. Frozen Chicken Divan Casserole can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Be sure to label it with the date so you can keep track of when it was made.
Reheating Chicken Divan Casserole
From the Refrigerator: To reheat refrigerated Chicken Divan Casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through. If you like the topping extra crispy, uncover it during the last 5 minutes of baking.
From the Freezer: When reheating a frozen casserole, it’s best to thaw it overnight in the fridge. Once thawed, follow the same reheating instructions as you would for a refrigerated casserole. If reheating directly from frozen, increase the baking time to 45-50 minutes, covering it with foil to prevent the top from burning. Uncover during the last few minutes for a golden, crispy finish.
Frequently Asked Questions on Chicken Divan Casserole
1. What’s in Chicken Divan?
Chicken Divan is a creamy casserole made with a few simple ingredients. It typically includes:
- Chicken: Often cooked or leftover chicken, diced into bite-sized pieces.
- Broccoli: Fresh or frozen broccoli florets add texture and nutrition.
- Creamy Sauce: A mixture of cream of chicken soup, sour cream (or mayo), milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and sometimes cheese.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese is commonly used to top the casserole and make it creamy.
- Topping: A crunchy topping made of Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter.
2. What Goes with Chicken Divan Casserole?
Chicken Divan Casserole pairs well with several side dishes to complete your meal. Here are some great options:
- Rice: White, brown, or cauliflower rice works well to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make for a comforting side.
- Biscuits: Soft, buttery biscuits are a classic pairing that complements the casserole’s richness.
- Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light dressing balances the richness of the casserole.
- Garlic Bread: A crispy, garlicky bread adds a flavorful crunch to your meal.
3. Can I Make Chicken Divan Without Cream of Chicken Soup?
Yes, you can make Chicken Divan without cream of chicken soup! There are several substitutions you can use:
- Homemade Cream Sauce: Make a simple homemade cream sauce by combining milk, butter, and flour to create a roux. Add seasonings like garlic, onion powder, and a splash of chicken broth for flavor.
- Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: Replace the cream of chicken soup with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy, creamy alternative.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you prefer a different flavor, you can swap in cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup for a similar creamy consistency.
4. How to Make a Chicken Casserole?
Making a chicken casserole is simple and versatile. Here’s a basic method:
- Cook the Chicken: Dice or shred cooked chicken, or use leftover chicken. Sauté or bake it if necessary.
- Prepare Vegetables: Add vegetables like broccoli, peas, or carrots. You can use fresh or frozen veggies.
- Make the Sauce: Combine cream of chicken soup (or a homemade sauce), milk, cheese, and seasonings to create a creamy base.
- Assemble the Casserole: Mix the chicken, vegetables, and sauce, then pour everything into a greased casserole dish.
- Top and Bake: Add a crunchy topping (like breadcrumbs, crackers, or cheese), and bake at 350°F for about 30-40 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
5. What Can I Add to Chicken Casserole for More Flavor?
To boost the flavor of your chicken casserole, consider adding:
- Cheese: Add extra cheese like mozzarella, Parmesan, or Gruyère for richness.
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley, and spices like garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper can enhance the flavor.
- Vegetables: Try adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions for extra texture and flavor.
- Crunchy Toppings: Add a mix of breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or crispy onions for a delightful crunch on top.
Conclusion
There’s a reason why Chicken Divan Casserole has remained a cherished dish for generations—it’s the perfect balance of comfort, simplicity, and versatility. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner, preparing it ahead for busy days, or tweaking it into a healthy chicken divan casserole, this recipe has something for everyone.
The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crisp broccoli, topped with golden, cheesy goodness, make every bite feel like a warm hug. And with the option to serve it over rice or customize it to suit your dietary needs, this casserole easily fits into any family’s menu.
Now it’s your turn to try this easy Chicken Divan Casserole recipe. Bring a little joy to your table and share this comforting classic with those you love. Once you’ve given it a go, we’d love to hear how it turned out—feel free to share your experience!
Looking for more comforting recipes? Check out our other chicken divan casserole recipes and delicious casseroles that are just as easy and satisfying. Happy cooking
