Comforting Chicken Divan with Broccoli Recipe Delight

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Chicken Divan with Broccoli is like a cozy hug on a plate, perfect for those days when you need a little comfort food magic. Imagine the savory aroma wafting through your home as tender chicken mingles with vibrant green broccoli, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce that makes your taste buds sing. chicken and wild rice soup This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that invites you to gather around the table and relish every bite. For more inspiration, check out this creamy scalloped potatoes recipe.

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Remember the first time you tasted Chicken Divan at a family gathering? The laughter, the stories, and that moment when you realized broccoli could be so delicious. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together—whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast. Anticipate the delight of each forkful as it transports you to culinary bliss.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Chicken Divan with Broccoli is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Its rich flavor profile combines creamy cheese and tender chicken for ultimate satisfaction.
  • Visually appealing with its bright colors, this dish will impress your guests at any gathering.
  • Versatile enough to adapt with other vegetables or proteins, it’s bound to become a family favorite.

Ingredients for Chicken Divan with Broccoli

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts are ideal, but feel free to adjust based on your guest list.
  • Fresh Broccoli: Use about two cups of fresh broccoli florets for that vibrant green color and crunch.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar to enhance the flavor profile and create that gooey texture we love.
  • Cream of Chicken Soup: A can of this soup adds creaminess and binds the ingredients together seamlessly.
  • Mayonnaise: Just half a cup elevates the richness of this dish without overpowering it.
  • Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens up the flavors beautifully.
  • Garlic Powder: A teaspoon of garlic powder delivers essential flavor without needing fresh garlic cloves.

For the Sauce:

  • Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels while adding moisture and flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Chicken Divan with Broccoli

How to Make Chicken Divan with Broccoli

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a baking dish and spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a saucepan over medium heat, cook your seasoned chicken breasts until they are no longer pink inside—about 10-15 minutes per side should do the trick. Once cooked through, let them cool slightly before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Prepare the Broccoli

While the chicken cools, steam or boil your broccoli florets until they are bright green and tender but still firm—around 3-5 minutes should suffice. You want them to maintain their crunch!

Step 4: Mix It All Together

In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, broccoli florets, cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, and half of your cheddar cheese. Tuscan white bean soup Stir well until everything is evenly mixed.

Step 5: Assemble in Baking Dish

Transfer your mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top it off with the remaining cheddar cheese—because who doesn’t love more cheese?

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. The irresistible aroma will have everyone flocking to the kitchen!

Once done, transfer to plates and drizzle any additional sauce left in your baking dish over each serving for that perfect finishing touch.

With these clear steps laid out before you, making Chicken Divan with Broccoli becomes less daunting—and more like an exciting kitchen adventure! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

You Must Know

  • This amazing Chicken Divan with Broccoli offers more than just flavor; it makes dinner a delightful experience.
  • You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
  • The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
  • Perfect for a cozy family meal but versatile enough for entertaining guests.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve perfect Chicken Divan with Broccoli, start by searing the chicken until golden brown. While that sizzles, cook the broccoli until tender yet crisp, and prepare your creamy sauce simultaneously. Timing is everything for a flawless dish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Chicken Divan with Broccoli! Swap out the broccoli for cauliflower or add some sautéed mushrooms for extra depth. mushroom pot pie recipe Experiment with different cheeses, like cheddar or Gruyère, to give it your own spin.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently in the oven or microwave to maintain that creamy texture and flavorful goodness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Start with fresh ingredients for the best flavor; frozen veggies can become mushy.
  • Let the chicken rest after cooking to retain juices and enhance tenderness.
  • Don’t skimp on seasoning; it elevates the entire dish!

Sometimes I whip up this Chicken Divan with Broccoli for friends, and their compliments never get old! It’s one of those dishes that makes you feel like a culinary genius without breaking a sweat.

FAQs:

What is Chicken Divan with Broccoli?

Chicken Divan with Broccoli is a creamy casserole dish that combines cooked chicken, tender broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce. It often features ingredients like mayonnaise, sour cream, and Parmesan or cheddar cheese, which contribute to its deliciously comforting flavor. creamy creamed corn The dish originated in the 1930s at the Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York City. It’s a favorite for weeknight dinners due to its simplicity and hearty combination of protein and vegetables.

How do you make Chicken Divan with Broccoli?

To make Chicken Divan with Broccoli, start by cooking chicken breasts until they are tender. While the chicken cooks, blanch broccoli florets in boiling water for a few minutes. In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, cheese, and seasoning to create the sauce. Combine the cooked chicken and broccoli in a baking dish, pour the sauce over it, and top with additional cheese before baking until bubbly and golden.

Can I use frozen broccoli for Chicken Divan?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli for Chicken Divan with Broccoli if fresh broccoli is unavailable. Just be sure to thaw and drain the frozen broccoli before adding it to your casserole. This helps prevent excess moisture from making the dish watery. Using frozen veggies is a convenient option that still provides great taste and nutrition.

What sides pair well with Chicken Divan with Broccoli?

Chicken Divan pairs beautifully with various sides that complement its creamy richness. Consider serving it with a light salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance flavors or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a heartier option, consider rice or quinoa as an accompaniment. These sides enhance your meal while maintaining simplicity.

Conclusion for Chicken Divan with Broccoli:

In conclusion, Chicken Divan with Broccoli is a delightful casserole that brings together tender chicken and vibrant broccoli in a creamy sauce. Its ease of preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Whether you choose fresh or frozen broccoli, this dish promises comfort and flavor in every bite. Enjoying this recipe not only satisfies hunger but also showcases how simple ingredients can create something truly delicious. For more inspiration, check out this chicken burrito bowls recipe recipe.

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Chicken Divan with Broccoli


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  • Author: Clare Schmidt
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 8

Description

Chicken Divan with Broccoli is a warm, comforting casserole that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or family feasts. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also customizable, ensuring it will quickly become a beloved staple in your home. Each bite delivers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. In a saucepan over medium heat, cook the chicken breasts for about 10-15 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let cool slightly and cut into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Steam or boil the broccoli florets for 3-5 minutes until bright green and tender yet firm.
  4. In a large bowl, combine chicken, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix well.
  5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 23g
  • Cholesterol: 78mg

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