Easy Chicken Divan Casserole for Busy Weeknights

Chicken Divan Casserole has been a family favorite for decades. Originating in the early 20th century, it was created in New York’s Divan Parisien Restaurant. This creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish quickly became popular at family dinners. Today, we're bringing you a guide to make this classic dish while also offering tips on how to make it healthier for those mindful of their diet.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make a delicious Chicken Divan Casserole:

Essentials

• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded (you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
• 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (opt for low-fat if preferred)
• 1 cup mayonnaise (substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Healthier Substitutions

• Low-fat dairy options like light cream of chicken soup and reduced-fat cheese
• Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise
• Whole grain breadcrumbs for added fiber

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli

1. If you haven’t already, cook your chicken and shred it into bite-sized pieces. You can boil, bake, or use a rotisserie chicken for convenience.
2. Steam the broccoli florets until they are tender but still vibrant green.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), shredded cheddar cheese, lemon juice, and curry powder. Mix until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
5. In a casserole dish, spread the cooked chicken evenly across the bottom.
6. Layer the steamed broccoli over the chicken.
7. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and broccoli, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 4: Add the Topping

8. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and melted butter.
9. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.

Baking and Serving

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

10. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serve

11. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
12. Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. This dish typically serves 6-8 people.

Healthier Variations

Add More Vegetables

• Incorporate additional vegetables like carrots, peas, or cauliflower to boost the nutritional content.

Use Whole-Grain Options

• Opt for whole-grain breadcrumbs and brown rice to make the dish more wholesome.

Low-Fat Dairy

• Use low-fat cheese and cream of chicken soup to cut down on calories without sacrificing flavor.

Conclusion

Chicken Divan Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a heartwarming experience that brings families together. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or opt for a healthier twist, it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table. We’d love to see your culinary creations! Share your photos and feedback with us. Happy cooking!