Hello, foodie! Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make chicken recipe that will wow your taste buds? Look no further than the Ultimate Chicken Divan! This beloved classic dish combines tender pieces of chicken, perfectly cooked broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce that is simply irresistible.
This casserole is perfect for a cozy night in, a family gathering, or a potluck party with friends. It’s also perfect for busy weeknights because it’s quick and easy to prepare. Plus, it can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve. In this article, we will share with you the steps to create this sensational dish that is sure to become a staple in your recipe book. So, let’s get started and make the Ultimate Chicken Divan!
Introduction to Chicken Divan Recipe
What is Chicken Divan?
Chicken Divan is a classic casserole dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck with friends. It is made with chicken, broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. This dish is beloved by many, and there are countless variations and recipes out there.
History of Chicken Divan
Chicken Divan was invented at the Divan Parisienne Restaurant in New York City in the 1930s. At the time, the restaurant’s chef was looking for something new to add to the menu, and he decided to combine two popular ingredients of the time: broccoli and Hollandaise sauce. He also added chicken to the mix, and the dish was born.
The name “Divan” actually comes from the French word for “sofa,” as the dish was thought to be as comforting and cozy as a good sofa. The dish quickly became a popular staple in American households, and it has been adapted in many different ways since then.
Why You’ll Love this Chicken Divan Recipe
With this Chicken Divan recipe, you won’t have to worry about any complicated instructions or ingredients. You’ll simply need chicken breasts, broccoli florets, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, curry powder, lemon juice, and cheddar cheese.
Not only is this dish easy to make, but it’s also packed with nutrition. Broccoli is a superfood that is loaded with vitamins and minerals, and it’s a great way to get your daily dose of fiber. Chicken is a lean protein that is essential for building and repairing muscles, while the creamy sauce provides a source of healthy fats.
This Chicken Divan recipe is also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Even the pickiest eaters will love the combination of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and savory sauce.
In conclusion, Chicken Divan is a classic casserole dish that has been enjoyed by generations of families. With this easy and delicious recipe, you can bring a little piece of history to your own dinner table. So why not give it a try tonight and see why this dish has been a favorite for so many years?
Ingredients You’ll Need
If you are searching for a delicious and healthy meal for your family, the chicken divan recipe is an excellent option. This recipe consists of tender chicken breasts, fresh or frozen broccoli, and a creamy and flavorful sauce. Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish:
Chicken
The star ingredient of this recipe is boneless, skinless chicken breasts. We recommend using about 2 pounds of chicken to prepare four servings. You can either buy pre-cut chicken breasts or cut them yourself at home. However, make sure to trim any excess fat or connective tissues before cooking the chicken.
Broccoli
The second essential component of this recipe is broccoli. You will need approximately 1.5 pounds of fresh or frozen broccoli florets. Fresh broccoli is an excellent choice if you prefer a firmer texture, while frozen broccoli works well if you’re looking for convenience. If you use frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw it before adding it to the pan.
Sauce
The sauce is what brings all the flavors together in this chicken divan recipe. To make the sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 1/2 teaspoons curry powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
To prepare the sauce, mix all the ingredients in a bowl until well combined. The mayonnaise and sour cream provide the creaminess, while the chicken broth and lemon juice add the necessary tanginess and moisture. The curry powder adds an exotic flavor, and the cheddar cheese provides a hint of saltiness and creaminess. The result is a delicious and flavorful sauce that elevates the chicken and broccoli to the next level.
Instructions to Make Chicken Divan
Chicken Divan is a classic casserole dish that is savory, creamy, and loaded with vegetables. It is a perfect hearty meal that is perfect for family dinners and special occasions. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make this beloved dish.
Cooking the Chicken
The first step to making Chicken Divan is to cook the chicken. You will need to poach the chicken breasts until they are cooked through. You can do this by using water or chicken broth. Here is how to poach chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in a large pot or skillet.
- Add enough water or chicken broth to cover the chicken breasts.
- Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Simmer the chicken breasts for about 10-15 minutes or until they are cooked through. You can check to see if they are cooked by cutting into the thickest part of the chicken. If the juices run clear, then the chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and let it cool. Then, slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Blanching the Broccoli
The next step is to blanch the broccoli. This ensures that the broccoli is slightly tender and bright green in color. Here is how to blanch broccoli:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Add the broccoli to the pot and let it cook for 3-5 minutes or until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender.
- Remove the broccoli from the pot and place it in a bowl of ice water. This will stop the cooking process and keep the broccoli from becoming mushy.
- Drain the broccoli and pat it dry with a paper towel. Then, chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
Making the Sauce
The sauce is what makes the dish creamy and delicious. It is made with a mix of mayonnaise, sour cream, chicken broth, lemon juice, curry powder, and shredded cheddar cheese. Here is how to make the sauce:
- In a bowl, mix together 1 cup of mayonnaise and 1 cup of sour cream until smooth.
- Add 1/2 cup of chicken broth, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 teaspoons of curry powder, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Mix everything together until well-combined.
Assembling and Baking the Casserole
The last step is to assemble the casserole. Here is how to do it:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
- Arrange the sliced chicken and chopped broccoli in the casserole dish.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and broccoli.
- Bake the casserole in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly and golden.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
And there you have it, a delicious and hearty Chicken Divan. This dish is not only easy to make, but it’s also nutritious and packed with flavor. So, why not go ahead and give it a try? Your family and friends will surely love it. Enjoy!
Variations to Try
If you are looking to switch things up with your chicken divan recipe, there are several variations that you can try to give the dish a unique twist. Here are some ideas that you can experiment with to make chicken divan that everyone will love:
Using Different Vegetables
While broccoli is the classic vegetable used in chicken divan, there are other options that can work just as well. Asparagus, cauliflower, and green beans are all tasty alternatives that you can use in place of broccoli. Simply prepare the vegetables as you usually would, and then add them to the casserole before baking. This is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals and try something new at the same time.
Adding Some Crunch
If you enjoy a bit of texture contrast in your dishes, adding a crispy topping to your chicken divan can be a great way to achieve it. Try topping the casserole with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking to give it some extra crunch. This works especially well if you are using a vegetable like cauliflower, which can be a bit softer in texture than broccoli. You can use any type of breadcrumbs or crackers that you like, or try something different like panko breadcrumbs for a really crispy finish.
Going Gluten-Free
For those who are gluten intolerant, it can be a challenge to find recipes that are free from wheat and other gluten-containing ingredients. Luckily, it is easy to make chicken divan that is gluten-free with a few simple swaps. Instead of traditional breadcrumbs or crackers, use gluten-free versions that you can find at most grocery stores. Alternatively, you can make your own using gluten-free bread or crackers and a food processor. This way, you can safely enjoy this delicious dish without worrying about any adverse reactions.
These variations are just a few examples of the many ways you can customize your chicken divan recipe to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try new things – you might just discover a new favorite meal in the process!
Thanks for Reading and Keep Exploring!
We hope you enjoyed reading about the ultimate Chicken Divan recipe and that it inspires you to get creative in the kitchen! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients or spice blends to make it your own.
Here at [website name], we’re passionate about sharing our love for food with fellow foodies like you. From simple weeknight dinners to extravagant meals fit for a special occasion, we’ve got you covered with delicious recipes, cooking tips, and more.
Be sure to check back often for more recipe ideas and culinary inspiration. Thanks again for reading, and happy cooking!
FAQ
1. Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While we recommend using shredded cheddar cheese in our recipe, you can experiment with other kinds of cheese like Parmesan, Swiss, or even a blend of different cheeses for a unique twist.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the Chicken Divan ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just keep in mind that the sauce may thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a little bit of milk to thin it out before reheating.
3. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Definitely! If you’re short on time or fresh broccoli isn’t available, you can use frozen broccoli florets instead. Just be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before using.
4. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs will work fine in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take longer to cook through than breasts.
5. Can I use a different type of mushroom?
Sure thing! While we recommend using sliced mushrooms in our recipe, you can try using different types of mushrooms like shiitake, portobello, or oyster mushrooms for different flavors and textures.
6. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables to the Chicken Divan, like carrots, peas, or even diced potatoes for a heartier meal.
7. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can make this recipe dairy-free by using non-dairy cheese and milk substitutes like almond milk or oat milk.
8. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover Chicken Divan in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it thoroughly in the refrigerator before reheating.
9. Will the recipe work if I cut it in half?
Yes, you can easily halve this recipe if you’re cooking for a smaller group. Just adjust the ingredient amounts accordingly.
10. Can I use leftover cooked chicken instead of raw?
Definitely! If you have leftover cooked chicken, you can use it in this recipe instead of raw chicken. Just add it in at the same point in the recipe where you would have added the cooked chicken.