Description

This Classic Chicken Divan recipe is an incredibly easy, creamy, and satisfying casserole packed with chicken, broccoli, and cheese. It’s a comforting family favorite perfect for any weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
4 cups frozen or fresh broccoli florets
1.5 to 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
0.5 cup whole milk
0.5 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
0.5 tsp Worcestershire sauce
0.5 tsp fine sea salt
0.25 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Prep Broccoli: Steam or boil 4 cups (400g) of broccoli florets until crisp-tender (about 3-5 minutes, vibrant green). Drain very well, patting dry to prevent a watery casserole.
Shred Chicken: If not pre-cooked, cook 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts until no longer pink (internal temp 165(degree)F/74(degree)C), then shred or cube to yield about 3 cups (450g).
Make Creamy Sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup, 0.5 cup milk, 0.5 cup mayonnaise, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 0.5 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 0.5 tsp salt, and 0.25 tsp black pepper until smooth.
Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the cooked chicken and thoroughly drained broccoli into the sauce mixture until evenly coated.
Assemble Casserole: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
Top with Cheese: Evenly sprinkle 1.5 to 2 cups (170-225g) of shredded cheddar cheese over the top, covering the entire surface.
Bake and Rest: Bake in a preheated oven at 350(degree)F (175(degree)C) for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Optional additions include crispy fried onions or panko breadcrumbs for crunch. For a low-carb version, substitute cauliflower for broccoli or use a keto-friendly cream soup alternative. Ensure broccoli is very well-drained to avoid a watery casserole. If sauce is too thin, stir in 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp cold milk into the sauce before baking. For a perfectly golden crust, broil for 1-2 minutes (watch carefully). Rotisserie chicken can be used for a quick shortcut. Good quality cheddar and fresh lemon juice enhance the flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 28 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups (approx 220 g)
Calories: 400 calories
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 800 mg
Fat: 25 g
Saturated Fat: 10 g
Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 30 g
Cholesterol: 90 mg

Keywords: chicken divan, casserole, easy dinner, creamy, cheesy, broccoli, family favorite, comfort food, weeknight meal, make-ahead