Description
Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole is a comforting and nutritious dish combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy cheesy sauce baked to golden perfection. Quick and easy to prepare, this casserole offers a satisfying balance of flavors and textures that appeals to both kids and adults. Ideal for family dinners, meal prepping, and delicious leftovers, it’s a classic recipe that brings wholesome ingredients together in a creamy, gooey, and crunchy bake.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
Vegetables
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
Dairy & Sauces
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli: Cook and shred or chop the chicken breast by poaching, baking, or using leftover cooked chicken. Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and become tender-crisp. Immediately transfer the broccoli to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process and preserve the vibrant color.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended, creating a rich and tangy sauce that will hold the casserole together.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the cooked chicken evenly in a greased baking dish. Layer the blanched broccoli evenly over the chicken. Pour the creamy sauce over the broccoli and gently spread it to cover the layers. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top, then finish with breadcrumbs to create a golden, crunchy crust.
- Bake until Bubbling and Golden: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled casserole for 25-30 minutes or until the sauce is bubbling and the topping is golden brown. Once done, allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to help it set for clean slices and enhanced flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture instead of frozen.
- Do not overcook the broccoli; blanch just enough to keep it tender-crisp and vibrant green.
- Mix different cheeses (cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack) to add depth to the sauce.
- Allow the casserole to rest after baking for easier slicing and better texture.
- Customize the crunchy topping by substituting traditional breadcrumbs with panko or crushed nuts.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1/6 of the casserole)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg