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Classic Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole

A close-up serving of creamy Chicken Divan with broccoli florets and a crispy, golden breadcrumb topping.
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Make this classic Chicken Divan casserole for a comforting, cheesy, and easy weeknight dinner. This recipe combines tender chicken, broccoli, and a rich cream sauce baked to golden perfection.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie chicken works well)
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder (optional, for warmth)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
  • 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 minutes until bright green and slightly tender-crisp. Drain them well.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth. Continue cooking, stirring often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the curry powder, salt, pepper, mayonnaise, wine or broth, and 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
  6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, blanched broccoli, and the creamy sauce. Mix gently until everything is evenly coated.
  7. Pour the chicken and broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  8. In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the casserole mixture.
  9. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the topping is golden brown.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before you serve it. This is a hearty family meal.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use leftover roasted chicken instead of plain cooked chicken.
  • If you skip the optional curry powder, you can add a dash of nutmeg to the sauce for a classic flavor profile.
  • Serve this cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole over cooked white rice for a complete, satisfying dinner.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingzenith.com/chicken-divan-classic-creamy-easy-casserole/