Chicken Broccoli Divan: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Chicken Broccoli Divan: the ultimate comfort food casserole that’s both creamy and satisfying! Have you ever craved a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate? This classic recipe delivers just that, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. I’m so excited to share my version of this timeless favorite with you.

The history of Chicken Broccoli Divan is as intriguing as its flavor. Legend has it that this dish originated in the Divan Parisian restaurant at the Chatham Hotel in New York City in the early 20th century. It quickly gained popularity, becoming a staple in American households. While variations abound, the core elements remain the same: tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious, creamy sauce.

What makes Chicken Broccoli Divan so beloved? It’s the perfect combination of textures and tastes. The tender chicken and slightly crisp broccoli are enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead meal, perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this Chicken Broccoli Divan recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to experience a taste of nostalgia with every delicious bite!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Broccoli:
• 2 lbs fresh broccoli florets (or 2 (10 oz) packages frozen broccoli florets, thawed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Divan Sauce:
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Topping (Optional):
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs (panko or regular)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Preparing the Chicken and Broccoli:

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the cubed chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices. This step is crucial for flavorful chicken, so don’t skimp on the seasoning!
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat another tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until it’s cooked through and lightly browned on all sides. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken cubes. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook the chicken in batches to ensure even browning. Set the cooked chicken aside.
3. Prepare the Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, wash and cut it into bite-sized florets. If using frozen broccoli, make sure it’s thawed and drained well.
4. Cook the Broccoli: You have a couple of options here. You can steam the broccoli until it’s tender-crisp (about 5-7 minutes), or you can roast it. To roast, toss the broccoli florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned. Roasting adds a nice depth of flavor, but steaming is quicker.

Making the Divan Sauce:

1. Melt the Butter: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Make sure the butter doesn’t burn; you want it to be nicely melted and ready to create a roux.
2. Make the Roux: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which is the base for our creamy sauce. Cooking the flour removes the raw flour taste and helps thicken the sauce.
3. Add the Chicken Broth: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, a little at a time, making sure to smooth out any lumps as you go. This prevents the sauce from becoming lumpy. Continue whisking until all the chicken broth is incorporated.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and let it thicken for about 5-7 minutes. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
5. Stir in the Cream and Mayonnaise: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and mayonnaise. The mayonnaise adds a tangy richness to the sauce that’s just divine!
6. Add the Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The lemon juice brightens the sauce, and the nutmeg adds a subtle warmth. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Assembling the Chicken Broccoli Divan:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the cooked chicken, cooked broccoli, and the Divan sauce. Make sure everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
2. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. You can also use a smaller dish if you want a thicker layer of Divan.
3. Prepare the Topping (Optional): In a small bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, bread crumbs, and melted butter. Mix well. This topping adds a nice crunchy texture and extra cheesy flavor.
4. Add the Topping: Sprinkle the cheese and bread crumb mixture evenly over the top of the chicken and broccoli mixture.
5. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
6. Broil (Optional): For an extra golden and crispy topping, you can broil the Divan for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
7. Rest: Let the Chicken Broccoli Divan rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions:

Chicken Broccoli Divan is delicious served on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions:

• Rice: Serve over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice to soak up all that delicious sauce.
• Pasta: Toss with cooked pasta, such as egg noodles or penne, for a heartier meal.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic accompaniment to Chicken Broccoli Divan.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Divan.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.

Tips and Variations:

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in the sauce and topping. Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of blue cheese would be delicious.
• Vegetable Variations: You can add other vegetables to the Divan, such as sliced mushrooms, chopped onions, or diced bell peppers.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
• Make it Lighter: To reduce the fat content, you can use light mayonnaise and skim milk instead of heavy cream.
• Make it Ahead: You can assemble the Chicken Broccoli Divan ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing: Chicken Broccoli Divan can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Breadcrumb Options: Instead of plain breadcrumbs, try using crushed Ritz crackers or seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
• Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the sauce for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs well with Chicken Broccoli Divan.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

(Per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 550-650
• Protein: 40-50g
• Fat: 30-40g
• Carbohydrates: 20-30g

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Broccoli Divan!

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another casserole; it’s a hug in a dish, a comforting classic elevated to something truly special. The creamy sauce, the tender chicken, the perfectly cooked broccoli – it all comes together in a symphony of flavors and textures that will have everyone at the table reaching for seconds. I truly believe this chicken broccoli divan recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a satisfying and relatively easy weeknight meal, or even a crowd-pleasing dish for a potluck or family gathering.

But what really makes this recipe shine is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses in the sauce. A sharp cheddar would add a delightful tang, while Gruyere would lend a nutty, sophisticated flavor. You could even add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top before baking for an extra layer of savory goodness.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Over Rice or Noodles: Serve this creamy delight over a bed of fluffy white rice or egg noodles for a complete and satisfying meal. The sauce soaks into the rice or noodles beautifully, making every bite a burst of flavor.
* With a Side Salad: Balance the richness of the casserole with a crisp and refreshing side salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect complement.
* Baked Potato Topping: Transform baked potatoes into a gourmet experience by topping them with a generous serving of this chicken broccoli divan.
* Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.
* Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a delicious vegetarian version. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* Make it Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This is a great option for busy weeknights. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
* Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes beautifully! Simply bake it, let it cool completely, and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it in the oven until heated through.

I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and delicious. Don’t be afraid to get creative and put your own spin on it!

So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen and give this chicken broccoli divan a try! I’m so excited for you to experience the deliciousness for yourself. And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did your family think? Share your photos and comments below – I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy cooking! I hope this becomes a staple in your recipe collection, a go-to dish that you can always rely on to bring smiles to faces around your table. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own. Enjoy!