Broccoli Chicken Divan: A Delicious and Nutritious Dish

Introduction

Are you looking for a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the goodness of chicken and the health benefits of broccoli? Look no further than Broccoli Chicken Divan. This classic casserole dish has been a favorite among families for generations, and for good reason. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, it’s a complete meal that will satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body.

Broccoli Chicken Divan has a rich history, with its origins traced back to the Divan Parisien restaurant in New York City in the early 20th century. Its popularity quickly spread across the country, and it has become a staple in many households ever since. Now, you can bring the comforting flavors of this timeless dish to your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons why Broccoli Chicken Divan has stood the test of time and remains a beloved dish. Here are just a few of the reasons why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:

1. Easy and Quick: This recipe is simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.

2. Nutritious: With the combination of chicken and broccoli, this dish is packed with essential nutrients. Broccoli is known for its high fiber content and is a great source of vitamins C and K. Chicken provides lean protein, making it a filling and satisfying option.

3. Versatile: While the classic Broccoli Chicken Divan recipe is already fantastic, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. You can add other vegetables, such as carrots or mushrooms, or experiment with different cheeses to create your own unique twist.

Ingredients

To make Broccoli Chicken Divan, you will need the following ingredients:

– 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded

– 2 cups fresh broccoli florets

– 1 can cream of chicken soup

– 1/2 cup mayonnaise

– 1/2 cup sour cream

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

– 1/4 teaspoon paprika

– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

– 1 tablespoon melted butter

Optional ingredient substitutions:

– Instead of chicken breast, you can use leftover cooked turkey or rotisserie chicken.

– If you prefer a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat mayonnaise and sour cream.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare Broccoli Chicken Divan:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well.

3. Add the shredded chicken and broccoli florets to the bowl. Stir until the chicken and broccoli are evenly coated with the sauce.

4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.

6. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro tip: For a golden and crispy topping, you can broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.

Expert Tips for Success

Follow these expert tips to ensure your Broccoli Chicken Divan turns out perfectly:

– If using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the casserole.

– To save time, you can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts from scratch.

– For added flavor, you can sauté the broccoli in a little olive oil before mixing it with the other ingredients.

– If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add an additional tablespoon of mayonnaise or sour cream.

Variations and Substitutions

While the classic Broccoli Chicken Divan is already delicious, you can experiment with different variations and substitutions to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas:

– Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and use extra broccoli or substitute it with tofu or your favorite meat alternative.

– Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to replace the regular breadcrumbs.

– Low-Carb: Instead of the cream of chicken soup, use a combination of chicken broth, cream cheese, and spices to create a creamy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Broccoli Chicken Divan is a satisfying and complete meal on its own, but you can enhance the dining experience by serving it with some complementary side dishes. Here are a few ideas:

– Steamed rice or quinoa: Serve the casserole over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to add some extra texture and make it even more filling.

– Crusty bread or dinner rolls: Enjoy the creamy goodness of the casserole by dipping some freshly baked bread or rolls into the sauce.

– Green salad: Pair the casserole with a refreshing green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the dish.

FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions you may have about Broccoli Chicken Divan:

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as the dish will be cold from the refrigerator.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?

A: Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.

Q: Can I use a different cheese?

A: Definitely! While cheddar cheese is the classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Swiss, or Gruyere to add your own twist to the dish.

Final Thoughts

Broccoli Chicken Divan is a timeless dish that brings together the comforting flavors of chicken and the health benefits of broccoli. With its creamy sauce and cheesy topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will satisfy both young and old alike. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, Broccoli Chicken Divan is a fantastic choice. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal that will leave you craving for more.

Don’t forget to share your experience with us in the comments below. Happy cooking!