Chicken Divan is a classic American casserole that has stood the test of time. Originating in the early 20th century, it was named after the Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York City, where it was first served. This comforting dish combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, all baked to perfection in one dish. Over the years, it has become a beloved family favorite, especially for those seeking a hearty, easy-to-make meal. The Old Fashioned Chicken Divan Recipe remains true to its roots, offering a rich and satisfying flavor that’s perfect for any occasion.
1. Old Fashioned Chicken Divan Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 2 heads of fresh broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon curry powder (optional, but adds great flavor)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Cook the chicken: If you haven’t already, cook and shred or dice 4 cups of chicken. Rotisserie chicken can save time, but any cooked chicken will work. Set aside.
Blanch the broccoli: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes, just until they turn vibrant green and are slightly tender. Drain immediately and run under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
Combine the sauce ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together 1 can of condensed cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, ½ cup of sour cream, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of curry powder (if using). Stir until smooth and creamy.
Season the sauce: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. The curry powder adds a unique flavor, but it’s optional if you prefer a more traditional taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Layer the broccoli and chicken: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange the blanched broccoli in an even layer. Spread the cooked chicken on top of the broccoli.
Pour the sauce: Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and broccoli, spreading it out evenly to cover everything.
Step 4: Make the Topping
Prepare the breadcrumb topping: In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir until the breadcrumbs are coated in the butter.
Top the casserole: Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a golden, crunchy topping as the casserole bakes.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken Divan
Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Cool slightly before serving: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly. This will make it easier to scoop and serve.
2. Variations of Old Fashioned Chicken Divan
Chicken and Rice Divan: For a heartier version, add cooked rice to the bottom of the casserole dish before layering the broccoli and chicken. This transforms the dish into a complete one-pan meal.
Low-Carb Chicken Divan: For a low-carb alternative, substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt and the cream of chicken soup with homemade cream sauce made from heavy cream and broth. You can also use almond flour in place of the breadcrumbs for the topping.
Vegetarian Divan: To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with cauliflower or tofu for a delicious meatless meal. You can also add other vegetables like carrots or zucchini to bulk up the dish.
Extra Cheesy Divan: For cheese lovers, double the amount of cheese in the sauce and sprinkle an additional layer of shredded cheddar or Parmesan on top before adding the breadcrumbs. This variation creates an extra cheesy, gooey casserole.
3. Storing and Reheating Chicken Divan
Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, though this may soften the breadcrumb topping.
This Old Fashioned Chicken Divan Recipe is a true classic, offering a comforting combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce. The golden breadcrumb topping adds the perfect amount of crunch to each bite, making this casserole a family favorite. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering. With its hearty ingredients and warm flavors, Chicken Divan is a dish that never goes out of style.
