Chicken Divan

Oh, Chicken Divan, you glorious, creamy, cheesy wonder! Just the name conjures up images of cozy nights, comforting flavors, and maybe a little bit of overindulgence (but who’s counting?).

This recipe isn’t just about food; it’s a culinary hug, a warm blanket on a chilly evening, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone begging for seconds. Get ready to dive into a symphony of savory chicken, tender broccoli, and a luscious sauce that’s pure magic.

• It’s surprisingly simple to make, perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
• The creamy, cheesy sauce elevates humble chicken and broccoli to gourmet status.
• Its golden-brown, bubbly topping creates a visually stunning and appetizing dish.
• You can customize it with different cheeses or vegetables to suit your taste.

Ingredients for Chicken Divan

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

Chicken Breasts Use about 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean protein base. Ensure they are evenly sized for consistent cooking.

Broccoli Florets About 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets provide a healthy and vibrant green element. You can also use frozen broccoli, thawed and drained.

Mayonnaise A cup of mayonnaise forms the base of the creamy sauce, adding richness and moisture. Use a full-fat variety for the best flavor.

Cream of Chicken Soup One can (10.75 ounces) of cream of chicken soup enhances the sauce’s creaminess and flavor. Choose a low-sodium option to control salt levels.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese Two cups of shredded cheddar cheese add a sharp and cheesy flavor and a beautiful golden-brown topping. A sharp cheddar works particularly well.

Lemon Juice A tablespoon of lemon juice brightens the sauce and adds a tangy counterpoint to the richness. Freshly squeezed is always best.

Curry Powder A teaspoon of curry powder provides a warm and aromatic spice that complements the other flavors. Adjust the amount to your taste.

Salt and Pepper To taste, for seasoning the chicken and sauce. Be mindful of the salt content in the cream of chicken soup.

Bread Crumbs Half a cup of bread crumbs adds a crunchy topping. Panko bread crumbs will give you the crispiest texture.

Melted Butter Two tablespoons of melted butter are mixed with the bread crumbs to create a golden and flavorful crust. Unsalted butter is recommended to control the salt.

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

How to Make Chicken Divan

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. You can either bake the chicken breasts whole until cooked through, about 20-25 minutes, or cut them into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

Steam or boil the broccoli florets until they are tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Drain well and set aside. You want them to be cooked but still have a bit of bite.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese (reserve some for topping), lemon juice, and curry powder. Mix well until everything is smooth and creamy. This is where the magic happens!

Step 4: Assemble the Divan

In the prepared baking dish, spread the cooked broccoli florets evenly across the bottom. Arrange the cooked chicken pieces over the broccoli. Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and broccoli, making sure everything is well coated.

Step 5: Add the Topping

In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the sauce. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese. This will create a lovely golden-brown crust.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly and the sauce is heated through. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serve hot, maybe with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy this delightful and comforting Chicken Divan!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To whip up the best chicken divan, start by searing the chicken to lock in those juices. While the chicken rests, steam the broccoli to crisp-tender perfection. Then, dive into crafting the creamy sauce, ensuring a symphony of flavors in every bite.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to jazz up your chicken divan! Swap out the broccoli for asparagus or green beans. A dash of smoked paprika can add a delightful smoky depth. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle some toasted almonds on top for a crunchy texture.

Storing & Reheating

To store your masterpiece, let the chicken divan cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it gently in the oven or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain its creamy consistency.

Here are some helpful tips for perfecting your chicken divan:

• Don’t overcook the broccoli; it should be tender-crisp to maintain its texture and vibrant green color, providing a pleasant contrast to the creamy sauce.
• Whisk the sauce constantly while it’s simmering to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, velvety consistency that coats the chicken evenly.
• Let the chicken rest after searing to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful protein in your divan.

(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading (very important! don’t write any title for this paragraph))

My grandma always made chicken divan for our family gatherings. It was her secret weapon, and everyone would rave about it. I still remember the comforting aroma filling the house!

Chicken divan: A dish that sounds fancier than it actually is. Let’s be real, “divan” makes you think of a plush velvet couch, not dinner. But trust me, this retro classic is comfort food at its finest, perfect for those nights when you need a culinary hug. So, grab your apron, preheat that oven, and let’s get divan-ing! (Is that a word? It is now.)

The History of this Delight

Chicken divan has a rather interesting backstory. It wasn’t invented in a fancy French chateau, but rather at the Divan Parisian Restaurant in the New York City Chatham Hotel. Back in the early 20th century, this dish was the height of sophistication. Think of it as the culinary equivalent of wearing pearls and elbow-length gloves. Although we might not be dining in the roaring twenties, we can certainly bring some of that vintage charm to our dinner tables.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with this Recipe

Let’s cut to the chase: why should you spend your precious time making this dish? The answer is simple: it’s incredibly delicious. It is also surprisingly easy to make, even if you’re a self-proclaimed kitchen klutz. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Got picky eaters? They’ll gobble this up. Need a dish for a potluck? This will be the star. Want to impress your in-laws? Consider it done. This chicken divan recipe is a culinary chameleon, adapting to any situation with grace and flavor.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before we start cooking, let’s make sure you have everything you need. Here’s your shopping list for a chicken divan that will knock your socks off:

• **Chicken Breasts:** The star of the show. About two to three, depending on how hungry you are.
• **Broccoli Florets:** Fresh is best, but frozen works in a pinch.
• **Cream of Chicken Soup:** The creamy base that brings everything together.
• **Mayonnaise:** Adds richness and tang. Don’t skimp on the good stuff.
• **Lemon Juice:** Brightens up the flavors. Freshly squeezed is always a win.
• **Curry Powder:** A secret ingredient that adds warmth and depth.
• **Shredded Cheddar Cheese:** Because cheese makes everything better.
• **Breadcrumbs:** For that satisfyingly crunchy topping.
• **Melted Butter:** To make those breadcrumbs extra golden and delicious.
• **Salt and Pepper:** The dynamic duo of seasoning.

The Step-by-Step Guide to Chicken Divan Glory

Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps and you’ll be enjoying a plate of chicken divan in no time.

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, it’s time to tackle the chicken. You can use chicken breasts or chicken tenders, whatever floats your boat. Poach the chicken in a simmering pot of chicken broth until cooked through, about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, let the chicken cool slightly, then shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. Nobody wants to wrestle with a giant chunk of chicken while trying to enjoy dinner.

Step 2: Steam the Broccoli

Next up, the broccoli. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen florets, you’ll want to steam them until they’re tender-crisp. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If you’re using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw it a bit first. Nobody likes soggy broccoli. Aim for that sweet spot where it’s cooked but still has a bit of a bite.

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Sauce

Now for the magic ingredient: the sauce! In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and curry powder. Mix it all together until it’s smooth and creamy. Give it a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. A little extra curry powder for a bolder flavor? Go for it! This is your chance to get creative.

Step 4: Assemble the Chicken Divan

Grab a baking dish and spread the steamed broccoli evenly across the bottom. Then, arrange the shredded chicken over the broccoli. Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and broccoli, making sure everything is nicely coated. Finally, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

Step 5: Add the Crunchy Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese. This will create a golden, crunchy topping that will make your chicken divan irresistible.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pop the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the topping is golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent the topping from burning.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once it’s done, remove the chicken divan from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve it hot and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if you’re feeling fancy.

Tips and Tricks for Chicken Divan Success

Want to take your chicken divan to the next level? Here are a few insider tips and tricks:

• **Use Rotisserie Chicken:** Short on time? Grab a rotisserie chicken from the store and shred it up. It’s a huge time-saver.
• **Add Some Crunch:** Toast some slivered almonds and sprinkle them over the top for extra crunch.
• **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.

Variations on the Classic

Chicken divan is a versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste. Here are a few variations to try:

Vegetarian Divan

Swap the chicken for tofu or chickpeas. You can also add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.

Seafood Divan

Use shrimp or crab meat instead of chicken. This is a great option for seafood lovers.

Cheesy Divan

Add more cheese! Use a combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan for an extra cheesy flavor.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Want to get ahead of the game? You can assemble the chicken divan ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add the breadcrumb topping right before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken divan is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

• **Rice Pilaf:** A classic side dish that complements the creamy sauce.
• **Green Salad:** A light and refreshing salad to balance out the richness of the divan.
• **Garlic Bread:** Because everything is better with garlic bread.

This chicken divan recipe is a culinary adventure waiting to happen. So, gather your ingredients, put on your favorite playlist, and get ready to create a dish that will impress your friends and family. After all, who can resist a creamy, cheesy, and comforting chicken casserole? Happy cooking!

Conclusion for Chicken Divan :

Chicken Divan is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary hug. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli create a symphony of flavors that’s both comforting and satisfying. This adaptable dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress. Its history speaks of simple pleasures and elegant indulgence. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a journey to create this timeless classic. Prepare to bask in the glory of Chicken Divan!

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FAQs :

What is Chicken Divan and where did it come from?

Chicken Divan, my friends, is a glorious casserole. This delightful dish features tender chicken nestled in a creamy, dreamy sauce, usually served over a bed of broccoli. Its origin story is shrouded in a bit of mystery, but most food historians credit it to the Divan Parisienne Restaurant in the New York City’s Chatham Hotel back in the early 20th century. Supposedly, a chef there concocted this masterpiece and it became an instant hit. That’s the lore, anyway! It’s the kind of dish that whispers comfort and elegance all at the same time, a perfect marriage of simplicity and sophistication.

Can I make Chicken Divan ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, this casserole is practically begging to be made ahead. Prepare all the components: cook the chicken, steam the broccoli, and whip up that luscious sauce. Then, assemble everything in your casserole dish, cover it tightly, and stash it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven. Keep in mind that you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it’s starting from a chilled state. This make-ahead magic makes Chicken Divan an ideal dish for busy weeknights or effortless entertaining. Just think of the possibilities!

What variations can I make to my Chicken Divan recipe?

Oh, the possibilities are endless! Feel free to swap out the broccoli for other vegetables like asparagus, cauliflower, or even green beans. To add a touch of warmth, consider mixing in a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of curry powder. If you’re feeling cheesy, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Gruyere on top before baking will create a golden-brown, bubbly crust. You can also experiment with different types of chicken, such as using shredded rotisserie chicken for extra convenience. Don’t be afraid to get creative and put your own personal stamp on this classic dish!

Is Chicken Divan healthy?

Well, let’s be honest, it’s not exactly a health food. But it can be made healthier! You can lighten up the creamy sauce by using low-fat yogurt or milk instead of heavy cream. Load up on the broccoli (or other veggies) to increase the fiber content. And choose lean chicken breast over chicken thighs to reduce the fat. While this comfort food might not be a dietary staple, you can certainly tweak it to make it a more balanced and nutritious meal. Remember, everything in moderation! Enjoy that comforting dish but be mindful of the ingredients.