Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic
When it comes to hearty, comforting meals, few dishes compare to the classic Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole. This rich and creamy casserole combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious sauce, all topped with a crunchy, buttery cracker crust. It’s a dish that’s as versatile as it is satisfying, perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings.
Introduction
Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole has stood the test of time as a family favorite, blending simple, wholesome ingredients into a dish that’s both nourishing and indulgent. The casserole’s origins trace back to the Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York City, where it was first introduced as a sophisticated entrée. Today, it’s a staple in many kitchens, cherished for its ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing flavors.
This recipe elevates the classic by incorporating a blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses for extra richness, while a golden Ritz cracker topping adds the perfect crunch. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing meals ahead of time, this casserole is a winner.
Ingredients
For this Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole, you’ll need a mix of fresh and pantry staples. The foundation includes cooked, shredded chicken and steamed broccoli, ensuring a balance of protein and vegetables. A creamy sauce made with condensed cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, and sour cream ties everything together, while seasonings like garlic and onion powder enhance the flavor. The final touch is a crispy topping made from crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter.;Here’s what you’ll need:;Four cups of cooked chicken, shredded.;Four cups of steamed broccoli florets.;One can of condensed cream of chicken soup.;Half a cup of mayonnaise.;Half a cup of sour cream.;One tablespoon of lemon juice.;One teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder.;Half a teaspoon each of salt and black pepper.;One cup of shredded cheddar cheese.;Half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese.;Half a cup of crushed Ritz crackers.;Two tablespoons of melted butter.
Instructions
To begin, preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and makes cleanup easier.
In a large mixing bowl, create the sauce by combining the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This creamy base provides a rich, tangy flavor that complements the chicken and broccoli perfectly.
Layer the steamed broccoli florets evenly in the prepared baking dish. Distribute the shredded chicken over the broccoli, creating a hearty base for the casserole. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and broccoli, spreading it out to ensure even coverage. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses over the sauce layer for a melty, savory topping.
For the final touch, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter in a small bowl. This mixture creates a golden, crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole underneath. Sprinkle it evenly over the cheese layer.
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Success
To streamline the process, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken from a previous meal. This saves time and ensures the chicken is tender and flavorful. When steaming broccoli, cook it until just tender to retain its vibrant color and prevent it from becoming mushy.
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other vegetables such as mushrooms, peas, or carrots. If you prefer a spicier kick, mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple side dishes. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with buttered dinner rolls or crusty French bread. A glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon makes for a refreshing beverage accompaniment.
Storage and Reheating
This casserole is a fantastic make-ahead dish. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for a quick meal, or reheat the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 325°F until warmed through. If freezing, assemble the casserole but skip the cracker topping, which can become soggy. Add the topping just before baking to maintain its crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh chicken instead of pre-cooked?
Absolutely. If starting with raw chicken, cook it first by roasting, boiling, or sautéing. Once cooked, shred or chop it before assembling the casserole.
Is there a substitute for Ritz crackers?
Yes, crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs can be used for a different texture. Simply mix them with melted butter as you would with the crackers.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Certainly. Use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup, gluten-free breadcrumbs, and ensure your crackers are also gluten-free. Verify all other ingredients to confirm they don’t contain gluten.
What other cheeses work well in this recipe?
Sharp cheddar and Parmesan offer a great balance of flavors, but you could experiment with Gruyère or mozzarella for a different twist.
Conclusion
Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole is a dish that embodies comfort and versatility. It’s a meal you can rely on to please a crowd or provide comforting leftovers for the week. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crunchy topping, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family dinner or preparing ahead for a special occasion, this casserole delivers on flavor and ease. Enjoy every bite of this timeless classic.
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Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic
Description
A creamy and cheesy casserole with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a crunchy cracker topping—perfect for a cozy family dinner or a holiday gathering.
Ingredients
• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 4 cups broccoli florets, steamed
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2️⃣ In a large bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3️⃣ Layer the steamed broccoli in the prepared baking dish. Spread the shredded chicken over the broccoli.
4️⃣ Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken and broccoli. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
5️⃣ In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle the cracker topping over the cheese.
6️⃣ Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
7️⃣ Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!