Miley Meet my go-to Chicken Divan recipe! Easy to make with a few simple ingredients, it’s creamy, savory, and loaded with tender bites of broccoli and chicken.
I’ve been looking for the perfect classic casserole recipe ever since I started craving comfort food a few years ago. After testing and tweaking this one with various ratios of sauce, cheese, and seasoning, I’m happy to report that it works perfectly as a cozy family dinner. With a side of rice or crusty bread, it becomes a complete, satisfying meal too.
I’ve never been a fan of heavy, mushy casseroles, they’re always a little too bland or one-note for my taste. But this homemade version couldn’t be more delicious. It’s rich and warming, with a subtle depth from the curry powder. I’ve surprised myself with how often I’ve turned to it lately. I hope you love it too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chicken Divan checks every box for an easy, comforting dinner that still feels special.
Creamy and cozy: The sauce stays smooth and rich all the way through.
Family friendly: Mild flavors that everyone enjoys.
Simple prep: Basic steps with no complicated techniques.
One dish dinner: Everything bakes together in one pan.
Great leftovers: Tastes just as good the next day.
Reliable comfort: Always feels warm and satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 pound broccoli, chopped
- 2 cups cooked chicken, cubed
- 10.75 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ⅓ cup milk
- 1½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
Step by Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven
Set the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a baking dish so nothing sticks during baking.
2. Cook the Broccoli
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chopped broccoli and cook just until tender. Drain well and set aside. This keeps the broccoli soft but not mushy.
3. Make the Sauce
In a bowl, stir together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy with no lumps.
4. Layer the Base
Spread the cooked broccoli evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. Add the cubed chicken on top, spreading it out so every bite gets some.
5. Add the Sauce
Pour the sauce over the chicken and broccoli. Use a spoon to gently spread it so everything gets coated.
6. Add Cheese and Topping
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter, then scatter it evenly over the cheese.
7. Bake Until Bubbly
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The top should turn golden and the edges should bubble.
8. Rest Before Serving
Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes scooping easier.
Tips & Variations
- Add a little more breadcrumbs for a thicker topping.
- Use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a softer melt.
- Use reduced fat sour cream and cheese.
- Add mushrooms or cauliflower with the broccoli.
- Assemble earlier and bake when ready.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Divan works well as a full meal on its own, but simple sides make it even better. Serve it with warm dinner rolls or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A light side salad adds freshness and keeps the meal balanced.
For busy nights, I serve it straight from the dish at the table. It always feels welcoming and relaxed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, it works perfectly and saves time.
Can I freeze Chicken Divan?
Freeze before baking for best texture. Thaw overnight before cooking.
How do I keep it from drying out?
Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too fast.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, thaw and drain it well first.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the fridge for up to 3 days in a covered container.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Divan brings comfort without extra effort. Every layer feels familiar and satisfying, making it a dish people ask for again. It fits busy nights, family dinners, and even casual gatherings without stress.
Chicken Divan
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 pound broccoli chopped
- 2 cups cooked chicken cubed
- 10.75 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ⅓ cup milk
- 1½ cups cheddar cheese shredded
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven: Set the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a baking dish so nothing sticks during baking.
- Cook the Broccoli: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chopped broccoli and cook just until tender. Drain well and set aside. This keeps the broccoli soft but not mushy.
- Make the Sauce: In a bowl, stir together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy with no lumps.
- Layer the Base: Spread the cooked broccoli evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. Add the cubed chicken on top, spreading it out so every bite gets some.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the sauce over the chicken and broccoli. Use a spoon to gently spread it so everything gets coated.
- Add Cheese and Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter, then scatter it evenly over the cheese.
- Bake Until Bubbly: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The top should turn golden and the edges should bubble.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes scooping easier.
