Description

Broccoli Chicken Divan is a classic, comforting casserole that layers tender chicken and fresh broccoli with a creamy cheese sauce, topped with golden breadcrumbs. Originally created in a New York restaurant, this dish has become a family favorite for its easy preparation, flexibility, and satisfying flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep, Broccoli Chicken Divan combines wholesome ingredients like lean chicken and broccoli with a rich, savory sauce that brings everything together. Whether you stick with the traditional recipe or customize it to fit your dietary needs, this dish always hits the spot.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups cooked chicken cubed
2 cups broccoli florets
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup milk
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp pepper
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup bread crumbs

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer Chicken and Broccoli: Arrange cubed chicken and broccoli florets evenly in the dish.
Make the Creamy Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, cooking for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually add chicken broth and milk, whisking continuously. Cook until thickened (about 5-7 minutes). Stir in salt, pepper, and cheddar cheese until smooth.
Assemble the Dish: Pour the cheese sauce over the chicken and broccoli. Ensure all ingredients are well-covered.
Add the Topping: Sprinkle bread crumbs evenly over the top.
Bake: Bake for 25 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Chicken: You can use any cooked chicken for this recipe—grilled, baked, or rotisserie chicken all work well. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds a bit of extra seasoning to the dish. For a leaner version, stick with skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is ideal because it provides a firmer texture, but frozen broccoli is also fine if you’re short on time. Be sure to steam or blanch fresh broccoli just until tender to maintain its nutrients and structure. If using frozen broccoli, thaw it and drain any excess moisture to avoid a watery casserole.
Creamy Sauce: The sauce is traditionally made with cream of chicken soup, but for a fresher, homemade approach, try making a simple roux-based sauce with butter, flour, and chicken broth. Alternatively, Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used for a tangy flavor and lighter texture. Adding garlic or onion powder gives extra depth to the flavor.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is most commonly used because it adds a rich, tangy flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or Parmesan for a more complex taste.
Breadcrumb Topping: The breadcrumb topping provides a crispy, golden finish. For a twist, use panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for added crunch. If you want to keep the dish gluten-free, swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones or simply omit the topping.
Make-Ahead Tip: Broccoli Chicken Divan can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for meal prep or when you’re planning for a busy day.
Freezing: The casserole freezes well either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and bake from frozen (adding extra time), or thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Leftovers also freeze beautifully and can be reheated for a quick meal.
Customizations:
- For a healthier version, use low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt in place of heavy cream, and opt for reduced-fat cheese.
- To make it vegetarian, replace the chicken with tofu or a plant-based protein, and add extra vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or bell peppers for added variety.
- For a low-carb or keto-friendly version, omit the breadcrumbs and use crushed pork rinds as a topping instead. You can also use full-fat dairy to align with keto guidelines.
Serving Suggestions: Broccoli Chicken Divan pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. It’s also perfect on its own for a lighter, one-dish meal. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme make a great garnish, and crispy onions or extra grated cheese can add extra texture and flavor.