Chicken Divan
Craving a comforting dish that’s both hearty and delicious? Look no further than chicken divan! This creamy casserole combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious cheese sauce, making it a favorite for family meals. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or for a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Here’s everything you need to know to whip up this classic delight!
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
– 1 can cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately:
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Fat: 25g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
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, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Fold in the shredded chicken and steamed broccoli until well mixed.
4. Spread the chicken and broccoli mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
5. Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese over the mixture.
6. In a separate bowl, combine breadcrumbs with melted butter and the remaining cheddar cheese.
7. Evenly distribute the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
10. Enjoy your delicious chicken divan with a side salad or crusty bread!
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily customize chicken divan by substituting cooked turkey for the chicken. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different vegetables such as cauliflower or asparagus for added flavor and nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken divan pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside rice or quinoa to soak up the creamy sauce. A light white wine can also complement the flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
To store leftover chicken divan, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be reheated in the oven at 350°F until heated through. For longer storage, chicken divan can be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the broccoli can make it mushy; steam just until tender.
- Using too much salt can overpower the flavors; taste and adjust accordingly.
- Neglecting to let the casserole rest before serving can lead to a soupy texture.
- Not greasing the baking dish may cause sticking.
- Skipping the breadcrumb topping can make the dish less appealing.
Helpful Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy preparation.
- Add a sprinkle of paprika for a touch of color and flavor.
- For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu.
- Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for variety.
FAQs
What is chicken divan?
Chicken divan is a creamy casserole made with cooked chicken, broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce, often topped with breadcrumbs. It’s a classic comfort food that’s easy to prepare.
Can I make chicken divan ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare chicken divan ahead of time. Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can substitute cream of chicken soup with homemade white sauce or a can of cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.
Is chicken divan suitable for freezing?
Yes, chicken divan can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I add other vegetables to chicken divan?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach to enhance the dish’s nutrition and flavor.
Conclusion
Chicken divan is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its creamy texture, combined with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, makes it a perfect choice for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a delightful meal that everyone will love!
Chicken Divan
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets steamed
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 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, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Fold in the shredded chicken and steamed broccoli until well mixed.
- Spread the mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese over the mixture.
- Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter and the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Evenly distribute the breadcrumb mixture over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
- Enjoy your delicious chicken divan!