If you're looking for a classic comfort food dish that brings together the nutritious goodness of broccoli with tender chicken in a creamy, cheesy sauce, look no further than Broccoli Chicken Divan. This recipe is a delicious casserole that combines savory flavors with the perfect balance of textures. Whether you're serving a weeknight family dinner or hosting a gathering, this dish is sure to please. Let’s dive into the full recipe, and make sure to read to the end for some tips and tricks to perfect your dish!

What is Broccoli Chicken Divan?
Broccoli Chicken Divan is a traditional American casserole that typically features cooked chicken and broccoli florets, all baked together in a creamy sauce, often topped with cheese and breadcrumbs. The dish originated from the Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York City’s Chatham Hotel in the early 1900s. It’s beloved for its comforting nature, combining nutrient-packed vegetables, protein, and a decadent, rich sauce for a perfect all-in-one meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Leftovers: It's a great way to use up leftover chicken.
- Family-Friendly: The combination of flavors appeals to both kids and adults.
- Customizable: With easy substitutions and variations, you can tweak this recipe to suit your preferences.
Ingredients List for Broccoli Chicken Divan
Before you start cooking, make sure you have everything you need. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Broccoli Chicken Divan:
For the Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or homemade)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon curry powder (optional, but recommended for a flavor boost)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
For Seasoning:
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 clove garlic (minced, optional)
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
Substitutions and Variations
One of the reasons Broccoli Chicken Divan is so popular is its versatility. Here are some common substitutions and variations to consider:
Ingredient Substitutions:
- Chicken: You can substitute cooked turkey or even leftover rotisserie chicken.
- Broccoli: Cauliflower makes a great substitute if you want a different vegetable or are avoiding broccoli.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup if preferred.
- Mayonnaise/Sour Cream: Greek yogurt can replace the mayonnaise or sour cream for a healthier alternative.
Flavor Variations:
- Spices: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Cheese: Switch out cheddar for Swiss or Gruyère cheese to give the dish a more nutty flavor.
- Low-Carb: For a lower-carb option, skip the breadcrumbs and replace them with crushed pork rinds for the crispy topping.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking! Follow these easy steps to prepare your Broccoli Chicken Divan:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
If you’re using fresh broccoli, steam the florets for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are just tender. If you’re using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain it well. Set the broccoli aside once it’s cooked.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, curry powder (if using), garlic (optional), and a pinch of salt and pepper. This creamy mixture will be the base of your casserole.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
In the prepared baking dish, layer the steamed broccoli first, followed by the cooked chicken. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the chicken and broccoli. Use a spoon or spatula to spread the sauce so everything is coated.
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Breadcrumb Topping
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter and paprika (if using), then sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer. This will give your casserole a crispy, golden-brown topping.
Step 6: Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
Step 7: Let it Rest
After removing the casserole from the oven, let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will allow the dish to set a bit and make it easier to scoop out.
How to Cook Broccoli Chicken Divan: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Cook the Chicken: If you don’t already have pre-cooked chicken, cook 3 chicken breasts in boiling water or bake them until they are done. Let them cool before shredding or cutting into cubes.
- Prepare the Broccoli: Steam the broccoli until just tender. Avoid overcooking it, as the broccoli will continue to cook in the oven.
- Mix the Creamy Sauce: Combine the soup, mayo, sour cream, and spices to create the creamy base that ties the dish together.
- Layer and Bake: Arrange the broccoli and chicken, pour the sauce, add the cheese and breadcrumbs, then bake until golden and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let it rest, serve with some crusty bread or a fresh salad, and enjoy!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though Broccoli Chicken Divan is a straightforward recipe, there are some common pitfalls you’ll want to avoid:
- Overcooking the Broccoli: Oversteamed or overcooked broccoli can become mushy in the casserole. Aim for broccoli that is just tender.
- Skipping the Rest Time: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking. This gives the sauce time to set and makes for neater servings.
- Undercooking Chicken: If using uncooked chicken, ensure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.
- Forgetting the Breadcrumbs: The breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying crunch. Don’t skip this step unless you're opting for a low-carb version.
Serving and Presentation Tips
The way you serve and present your Broccoli Chicken Divan can take it from a simple family meal to an elegant dish that’s dinner-party worthy.
How to Serve Broccoli Chicken Divan
- Serve your Broccoli Chicken Divan as a standalone main dish or pair it with simple sides such as:
- Rice: White rice or wild rice are perfect accompaniments to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a cozy, carb-filled side dish.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread makes an ideal pairing.
Presentation Ideas for Broccoli Chicken Divan
- Individual Servings: For a fancy twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for each guest.
- Garnish: Sprinkle a bit of fresh chopped parsley or green onions over the top of the casserole for a pop of color.
- Layering: Create a beautiful layered effect by arranging the broccoli and chicken evenly in the casserole dish before adding the sauce and cheese.
Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe Tips
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a perfect dish for meal prepping or entertaining.
- Freezing: Broccoli Chicken Divan freezes well. Simply assemble the casserole, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
- Leftover Idea: Use leftovers in a wrap or sandwich for a quick and tasty lunch the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Broccoli Chicken Divan gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free cream of chicken soup to make this dish gluten-free.
Q: Can I use fresh chicken instead of pre-cooked?
A: Absolutely. Just make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly before adding it to the casserole.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover Broccoli Chicken Divan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu, chickpeas, or another meat alternative. Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken for a vegetarian version.
Conclusion
Broccoli Chicken Divan is the ultimate comfort food casserole, blending wholesome ingredients like broccoli and chicken with a creamy sauce that brings everything together. Whether you're making it for a quick weeknight dinner or prepping it ahead for a special occasion, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. With a few simple ingredients and an easy cooking process, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again. So grab your ingredients and give this classic dish a try today!
Enjoy cooking and bon appétit!
PrintBroccoli Chicken Divan Recipe
Broccoli Chicken Divan is a classic comfort food dish featuring tender chicken and fresh broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this casserole is easy to make and full of rich flavors. It combines simple ingredients like chicken, broccoli, and cheese with a rich sauce for a satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Broccoli florets
- Cream of chicken soup
- Cheddar cheese
- Mayonnaise
- Lemon juice
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Steam or blanch the broccoli until tender, set aside.
- Cook chicken in a skillet until no longer pink, then shred or cut into bite-sized pieces.
- In a bowl, mix soup, mayo, lemon juice, and seasonings.
- In a baking dish, layer broccoli, chicken, and pour the sauce over.
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Notes
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise to reduce fat.
- Add cooked rice or noodles to make it a fuller meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about ⅙ of recipe)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
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