Chicken Divan Casserole

This comforting chicken divan casserole is the kind of dinner that saves the day on busy nights while still feeling like something special. It combines juicy chicken pieces with tender broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce, topped with a golden layer of buttery crackers. I first made this when I was desperate to get my kids to eat more vegetables, and they shocked me by asking for seconds. Since then, it’s become one of our most requested family meals.

I always make a double batch now because the next-day flavor is even richer and it reheats like a dream. My youngest even calls it cheese broccoli chicken pie and requests it every Sunday.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast: cube into bite sized pieces for even cooking and juicy texture
• Fresh broccoli florets: lightly boiled until fork tender to preserve color and crunch
• Curry powder: adds subtle warmth and unexpected depth that makes the dish pop
• Cream of chicken soup: gives a rich savory base with minimal effort
• Cream of broccoli cheese soup: doubles down on the creamy vegetable flavor
• Sour cream: balances out the richness with tang and silkiness
• Milk: thins the sauce just enough for perfect consistency
• Lemon juice: brightens everything and cuts through the richness
• Sharp cheddar cheese: adds bold flavor and melts into the sauce and topping
• Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper: season the chicken thoroughly for best flavor foundation
• Crushed Ritz crackers: create a buttery golden crust that everyone fights over

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté and prep the chicken:

Cut chicken breasts into one inch cubes and coat them with garlic powder, onion powder, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Massage the seasoning evenly across every piece so it sticks well and flavors the meat as it cooks.

Cook the chicken:

In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, sauté the seasoned chicken for five to seven minutes. Stir occasionally until the chicken is browned and fully cooked through but not dry.

Blanch the broccoli:

Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the broccoli florets for about five minutes. They should be fork tender but still have a little bite. Drain them well and set aside to prevent sogginess later.

Make the creamy sauce:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together cream of chicken soup, cream of broccoli cheese soup, sour cream, milk, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth. Stir in the cooked chicken and drained broccoli. Fold in one and a half cups of shredded cheddar cheese gently to avoid breaking the broccoli.

Assemble the casserole:

Grease an eight by eight inch baking dish. Pour the chicken and broccoli mixture into the dish and spread it evenly. Top with crushed Ritz crackers and the remaining shredded cheddar cheese for that signature crust.

Bake until golden and bubbly:

Bake at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit for thirty to thirty five minutes. The casserole should be bubbling around the edges and the crackers should be golden brown. Let it rest for eight to ten minutes before serving so it sets nicely.

I learned that the timing on the broccoli is crucial. My first attempt resulted in mushy overcooked broccoli because I boiled it too long and then baked it. Now I stop at fork-tender and get perfect texture every time.

Perfect Serving Ideas

This casserole stands alone as a full meal, but serving it with warm dinner rolls or over fluffy rice stretches it further. A crisp green salad on the side keeps the meal fresh and balanced. Iced tea or a chilled white wine pairs nicely.

Making It Different

Swap the broccoli for cauliflower or asparagus for variety. Add mushrooms or water chestnuts for crunch. Try other cheeses like Swiss or Gruyere for more depth. The base is flexible and forgiving.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers for up to four days. The flavor deepens over time. Reheat in the microwave for individual servings or in a three hundred fifty degree oven for larger portions until hot throughout.

Casserole Success Tips

Use an eight by eight inch dish for perfect thickness Allow it to rest before slicing Crush crackers evenly for even browning

This chicken divan has become one of those reliable family recipes that makes dinner feel special without requiring any special skills. The combination of familiar flavors presented in this comforting casserole format creates something that appeals to both kids and adults. It's proof that sometimes the best family meals are the ones that take simple ingredients and turn them into something that brings everyone together around the dinner table.

Recipe Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? Yes. Use about three cups of frozen broccoli florets. Thaw and drain them well, then skip the boiling step.

What can I substitute for the cream soups? You can make a homemade white sauce with butter, flour, and chicken broth, or use a mix of cream cheese and chicken broth for richness.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble it completely and refrigerate for up to twenty four hours before baking. Add five to ten minutes to the baking time.

How do I know when the casserole is done? It should be bubbling around the edges with golden brown crackers on top. The internal temperature should reach one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit.

What sides go well with chicken divan? Rice, dinner rolls, a green salad, or roasted vegetables all work beautifully. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own too.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes. Use about 3 cups of frozen broccoli florets. Thaw and drain well, then skip the boiling step before baking.

→ What can I substitute for the cream soups?

You can use a homemade white sauce or a mix of cream cheese and chicken broth for a similar creamy texture.

→ Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble it completely and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5 to 10 extra minutes to baking time if cold.

→ How do I know the casserole is done?

It should be hot and bubbling at the edges, with a golden brown cracker topping. Internal temperature should be 165°F.

→ What should I serve with chicken divan?

It pairs well with rice, dinner rolls, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables. It’s also satisfying on its own.