Lunch & Dinner

Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe – Sweet Mama’s Kitchen

Name: Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe – Sweet Mama’s Kitchen
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; Sea salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste; 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped; 1 stalk celery, finely diced; 4 cups broccoli florets; 10 ½ oz. cream of chicken soup; 2/3 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1/2 cup whole milk; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard powder; 2 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated; 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons melted butter; New Ingredients Added:; 1 cup fresh baby spinach; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Susan Roberts December 28, 2024

Servings: 6 Total Time: 45 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Before we dive into the tantalizing world of Chicken Divan Casserole, let’s consider some delightful pairings that can elevate your meal. A warm, crusty loaf of bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy goodness of the dish, adding a satisfying crunch.

A fresh garden salad dressed with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

Additionally, roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and asparagus not only add vibrant color to your plate but also bring a sweet, charred flavor that beautifully complements the creamy chicken. With these thoughtful pairings, your Chicken Divan Casserole will shine even brighter on the dinner table.

What is Chicken Divan Casserole?

At its core, Chicken Divan Casserole is a comforting dish that combines cooked chicken, broccoli, and a creamy sauce, all lovingly blanketed with cheese. It’s the ultimate casserole, embodying flavors that are both satisfying and nostalgic, with roots tracing back to its creation in the early 1900s at the Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York City.

But don’t let its rich history intimidate you. This dish is simple to whip up and makes for easy weeknight meals or potluck contributions. It’s versatile and holds the ability to shine in any kitchen.

Why This Recipe Works?

1. Easy Preparation

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few steps, you can assemble a family-pleasing dinner that goes from prep to plate in under an hour. Even the busiest of home cooks can manage this on a weeknight.

2. Nutrient-Rich Ingredients

Combining protein-rich chicken, nutrient-dense broccoli, and a flavorful creamy sauce makes this casserole not just delicious but wholesome too. The inclusion of Greek yogurt adds creaminess while contributing an extra protein hit.

3. Make-Ahead Options

This casserole shines as a make-ahead dish. You can prepare it in advance and then pop it in the oven before dinner. This genius aspect means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying with friends and family.

4. Customizable to Taste

One of the best parts of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or switch up the cheese. If someone in your family prefers something different, the recipe easily adapts to those unique tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish

Gathering the right ingredients is key to a successful casserole. You’ll need:

2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Sea salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
1 stalk celery, finely diced
4 cups broccoli florets (approximately ½ lb.)
10 ½ oz. cream of chicken soup
⅔ cup plain Greek yogurt (for a tangy twist)
½ cup whole milk
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard powder
2 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Topping

½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter
New Ingredients Added:
1 cup fresh baby spinach
1 teaspoon smoked paprika

How To Make This Chicken Divan Casserole?

Let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking! Follow these straightforward steps.

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating, grab a skillet and heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before chopping into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, toss in the chopped onion and diced celery. Sauté until the onion turns translucent. This should take about 3-4 minutes. The smell will be wonderful!

Step 3: Prepare the Broccoli

While the veggies sauté, bring a pot of water to boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for 2-3 minutes until just tender but still crisp. Drain and immediately plunge them into cold water to stop the cooking process. This keeps the vibrant green color and nutrients intact.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed veggies, blanched broccoli, cream of chicken soup, Greek yogurt, whole milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder. Stir gently until everything is well coated.

Step 5: Transfer and Top

Pour the chicken mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Now, let’s sprinkle that glorious cheese on top. Then, take your crushed crackers or breadcrumbs and mix them with melted butter before adding as the crispy topping.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. When it comes out, it will be harder than a rock to wait, but trust me, a few moments will heighten the experience.

Tips & Tricks

Add More Veggies: Fold in other veggies like cauliflower or carrots. The more, the merrier!
Spice it Up: For an extra kick, add some pressed garlic or red pepper flakes.
Cheddar Mix: Blend different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for varied flavors.
Gather Friends: Double this recipe and gather your friends for a chill casserole night.
Cook Once, Eat Twice: Make two casseroles! Freeze one for those nights you just want to microwave dinner.

How Do You Store The Leftovers?

Storing leftovers? Easy peasy! Just let the casserole cool completely before sealing it tightly in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to save it for a future dinner, freeze it! Just wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to dive in, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What Sides Would Complement Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe?

Garlic Bread: A side of garlicky bread not only tastes amazing but also adds a delightful texture.
Greek Salad: Tossed with cucumber, tomatoes, olives, and feta, this salad balances the casserole perfectly.
Quinoa Pilaf: Light and fluffy, this pilaf adds a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully.

Each side enhances the dining experience, giving it that much-needed lift.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

Chicken: You can substitute with turkey, leftover rotisserie chicken, or even canned chicken if you’re in a bind.
Broccoli: Asparagus or green beans work in its place. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they remain crisp-tender.
Cream of Chicken Soup: A homemade version or another cream soup, like mushroom, will do the trick.
Greek Yogurt: Sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative can replace Greek yogurt while still keeping it creamy.

Conclusion

Chicken Divan Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite. From its simple preparation to the delightful flavors bursting forth, this dish is a perennial favorite. It’s the perfect recipe to try for your next family gathering or even just a cozy weeknight in.

The key is to gather with loved ones around the table and enjoy a hearty meal together. Next time you’re in need of a comforting dish, take a page from this recipe; it’s bound to leave everyone smiling with full bellies. Happy cooking, and bon appétit!

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Print Recipe

Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe – Sweet Mama’s Kitchen

Author: Susan Roberts Cuisine: American Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 30 mins Total Time 45 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 611 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Ah, Chicken Divan Casserole. The mere mention of it brings back fond memories of cozy family dinners and the comforting aroma wafting through the kitchen. Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, the family is gathered around the table, and you serve up a steaming dish of chicken divan. The smiles, the satisfied sighs—there's nothing quite like it.

I stumbled onto this recipe during an impromptu cooking session one rainy afternoon. The ingredients simply called to me, and what followed was a dinner that felt like a warm hug. This dish is not only filling and delectable; it also ticks those boxes for being easy to prepare and enjoy any day of the week.