Chicken divan casserole
Chicken Divan Casserole is a classic comfort dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy broccoli, and a cheesy sauce that’s baked until bubbly and golden. It’s one of those meals…
Tip: save now, cook later.Chicken Divan Casserole is a classic comfort dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy broccoli, and a cheesy sauce that’s baked until bubbly and golden. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate, with a bit of crunch on top that makes every bite satisfying.
I love making this casserole when I want something that’s easy but still feels special. The mix of chicken and broccoli in a creamy sauce is simple, but it hits the spot every time. A little sprinkle of cheese on top and maybe a dash of breadcrumbs gives it that perfect finish. I always find that letting it rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven helps everything set just right.
My favorite way to enjoy Chicken Divan Casserole is with a side of buttery rice or some warm crusty bread to soak up the sauce. It’s a great dish for a cozy family dinner or for making ahead when you want to have something ready to go. Whenever I make it, people always ask for seconds, and I’m happy to serve it up again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using cooked chicken breast keeps the casserole hearty. Rotisserie chicken is a quick swap if you want to save time, and shredded leftover chicken works great too.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives the best flavor and texture. Frozen is fine—just thaw and drain well to avoid extra moisture that can make the casserole watery.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This is the soul of the creamy sauce. If you prefer homemade, a simple mix of chicken broth, cream, and a bit of flour or cornstarch works well.
Mayonnaise: It adds richness and tang. For a lighter version, try Greek yogurt or sour cream, though the flavor will change slightly.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice tang and melts beautifully. You can mix in mozzarella for extra stretch or use Colby jack for a milder taste.
Topping: Crushed potato chips add salty crunch and a fun twist. For a classic crisp top, breadcrumbs or crushed crackers offer a great alternative.
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy Sauce Without It Separating?
Making a smooth, creamy sauce is key for Chicken Divan. Here’s how I make sure it turns out just right:
- Combine the condensed soup and mayo well before mixing in chicken and veggies—this helps create a uniform sauce.
- If your sauce feels too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen it slightly.
- Stir gently when folding in cheese to avoid clumps.
- Avoid overbaking; once bubbly and golden, take the casserole out to prevent the sauce from drying or separating.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the sauce thicken and keeps everything together when serving.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – It’s the perfect size for layering all the ingredients and baking evenly.
- Large mixing bowl – For combining the sauce, chicken, and vegetables smoothly.
- Steamer basket or pot – Helps you steam broccoli just right without getting soggy.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – Great for gently mixing without breaking the chicken pieces.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To get your soup, mayo, and spices just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked turkey to use leftovers and add a subtle flavor change.
- Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy touch that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
- Mix in shredded mozzarella with cheddar for a milder, gooier cheese blend.
- Top with crushed Ritz crackers instead of chips for a buttery, crispy crust.
How to Make Chicken Divan Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon curry powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
For the Cheese and Topping:
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to bake. Add a few minutes for steaming the broccoli and letting the casserole rest before serving. Overall, plan for about 45 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Broccoli:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly steam the broccoli florets until they are just tender, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Drain them well to avoid extra moisture in your casserole.
2. Mix the Creamy Sauce:
In a large bowl, blend the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice, curry powder (if using), garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Combine Chicken and Veggies:
Add the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and peas into the sauce mixture. Stir gently to coat them evenly without breaking the chicken pieces.
4. Add Cheese and Assemble:
Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture. Then, spread everything evenly into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish.
5. Top and Bake:
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the casserole. Spread the crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the topping turns golden brown.
6. Rest and Serve:
Let the casserole stand for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes serving cleaner and easier. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Chicken Divan Casserole with rice or a fresh salad!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.
Can I Make Chicken Divan Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
You can use Greek yogurt or sour cream as a lighter alternative, but expect a slightly tangier flavor and less richness.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.