Introduction to Chicken Divan
Are you ready to dive into a dish that effortlessly combines rich flavors with nostalgic comfort? Chicken Divan is the ultimate casserole that brings warmth to your dinner table. Originally created in the 1950s, it's a creamy and cheesy delight that features tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious sauce, all baked to golden perfection.
Why Chicken Divan is a Comfort Food Favorite
What makes Chicken Divan such a beloved comfort food? For starters, it embodies the essence of home-cooked goodness. Picture this: after a long day, you gather with friends or family and share a dish that feels like a warm hug. The creamy sauce balances the freshness of broccoli, while melted cheddar brings everything together in a cheesy embrace.
Additionally, it’s incredibly versatile! You can serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or even alongside warm biscuits, making it a perfect match for any occasion. The beauty of Chicken Divan lies not only in its flavor but also in its simplicity—it’s ideal for novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Feeling adventurous? Modify it by adding your favorite spices or swapping in different veggies for a unique twist.
If you’re looking for a dish that delivers both taste and comfort, look no further than Chicken Divan—your new go-to recipe for cozy gatherings or weekday dinners! Plus, check out this cream of chicken soup recipe to elevate your dish further!
Ingredients for Chicken Divan
Essential ingredients for a delicious Chicken Divan
When crafting a mouthwatering Chicken Divan, you'll want to gather these essential ingredients for a truly satisfying dish:
- Butter & Olive Oil: Provides essential fats for sautéing the chicken and veggies.
- Chicken Breasts: Use about 2 lbs. of boneless, skinless chicken for the base of your dish.
- Broccoli: About 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets adds vibrant color and nutrients.
- Creamy Base: A can of cream of chicken soup, along with sour cream and milk, creates that luscious, comforting sauce.
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder elevate the flavors.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese not only adds richness but also forms the perfect gooey topping.
Optional ingredients for variations
Feeling adventurous? You can switch things up with these optional additions:
- Vegetables: Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Protein Variations: Cooked turkey bacon or chicken ham can make a delightful twist.
- Spices: A pinch of cayenne or paprika can bring an exciting kick to the dish!
- Topping Alternatives: If you're not a fan of Ritz crackers, try using panko breadcrumbs or even crushed tortilla chips for a unique crunch.
With these ingredients in hand, you're on your way to creating a delicious Chicken Divan that everyone will love! For a comforting side, check out our recipes for mashed potatoes or biscuits.
Preparing Chicken Divan
Creating a delicious Chicken Divan dish is a satisfying culinary adventure that’s sure to impress at your next family dinner. Let’s walk through the process, step by step.
Gather and prepare your ingredients
Before diving into cooking, it's crucial to have all your ingredients prepped and ready. This not only streamlines the cooking process but also helps ensure you don’t forget anything essential.
Here’s your ingredient checklist:
- 2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 stick of celery, diced
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 10.5 oz. cream of chicken soup
- ⅔ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- Cheese and seasonings: 2 ½ cups cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder
- Topping: ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers and 2 tablespoons of butter
Make sure your chicken is cut into bite-sized pieces and don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper. This simple step elevates the flavor profile of your Chicken Divan immensely.
Sauté the chicken and vegetables
In a Dutch oven or a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add in the seasoned chicken, onions, and celery, tossing them together for about 3 minutes until the chicken is starting to cook through.
Then, introduce 4 cups of broccoli florets and a tablespoon of olive oil to the mix. Continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes. By the end of this step, your chicken should be cooked through, and you’ll have a lovely medley of sautéed vegetables.
Mix the creamy sauce
Once your chicken and vegetables are ready, it’s time to create the creamy goodness that will bind everything together. In your sauté pan, add the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and seasonings, stirring well to combine. Don’t forget to incorporate half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the mix.
This velvety sauce brings a richness that is synonymous with Chicken Divan, making each bite creamy and indulgent.
Assemble the Chicken Divan in the baking dish
Now, it’s time to get everything into a baking dish. Transfer your creamy chicken and vegetable mixture into a lightly greased 9 x 13 casserole dish. Spread it out evenly and don't skimp on topping it with the remaining cheese; it’s the gooey part everyone loves!
Bake to perfection
With everything assembled, cover your dish and bake it in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. After that, raise the temperature to 400 degrees.
While it's baking, combine melted butter with your crushed Ritz crackers. Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole for that golden, crunchy topping. Bake for an additional 8-10 minutes until beautifully golden brown.
Allow your Chicken Divan to sit for about 5 minutes before serving it up over a bed of rice, biscuits, or mashed potatoes. You won’t just have dinner; you'll create a memorable meal!
Variations on Chicken Divan
Low-carb Chicken Divan options
For those looking to enjoy a delicious Chicken Divan while keeping carbs in check, consider using veggies like cauliflower instead of traditional rice or biscuits for serving. You can also substitute the cream of chicken soup with a low-carb version or make a homemade version using chicken broth and cream cheese for that creamy texture without the extra carbs.
Substitutions for dietary preferences
Catering to different dietary needs is easy with Chicken Divan! If you're dairy-free, swap the sour cream and cheese for dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream and nutritional yeast. For those avoiding poultry, use turkey bacon or chicken ham instead of traditional chicken. Just get creative and customize this comfort dish to fit everyone's taste! For more ideas on substituting ingredients, check out these resources on healthy ingredient swaps.
Cooking tips and notes for Chicken Divan
Tips for achieving the best flavor
To create a delicious Chicken Divan, don't shy away from seasoning your ingredients. Adding extra salt and pepper during the cooking process enhances the overall flavor. Consider using fresh ingredients for the broccoli and chicken; they make a noticeable difference. Additionally, incorporating a splash of lemon juice before serving can brighten up the dish and bring all the flavors together.
Notes on ingredient substitutions
If you're missing an ingredient, don't worry! You can substitute cream of chicken soup with a homemade version or even cream of mushroom soup if you prefer. Greek yogurt can work as a healthier alternative to sour cream, while any type of cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack can help you customize your Chicken Divan. For a vegetarian twist, replace chicken with chickpeas for a hearty option.
Serving suggestions for Chicken Divan
Best sides to complement Chicken Divan
When it comes to pairing with Chicken Divan, think comfort foods that enhance its creamy goodness:
- Rice: A classic choice, providing a fluffy base to soak up the delightful sauce.
- Biscuits: Flaky, buttery biscuits bring a nice contrast and make for a satisfying meal.
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer a rich complement to the dish.
- Green salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette balances the dish’s richness.
Unique serving ideas
Elevate your Chicken Divan presentation with these creative ideas:
- Stuffed Peppers: Use Chicken Divan as a filling for vibrant bell peppers—bake until tender for a fun twist.
- Wraps: Turn it into a delightful wrap with tortillas, adding some crunchy lettuce for freshness.
- Casserole Bar: Serve it in a casserole dish with a selection of toppings like turkey bacon, nuts, or extra cheese for customization.
These suggestions will surely impress your guests and make your mealtime memorable!
Time Breakdown for Chicken Divan
Preparation Time
Getting ready to make Chicken Divan doesn’t take long at all! You’ll need about 15 minutes to chop your ingredients and gather everything.
Cooking Time
The actual cooking time is approximately 30 minutes. This includes sautéing the chicken and veggies, baking, and letting it rest before serving.
Total Time
All in all, you’re looking at a total of about 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor!
For added convenience, check out these easy side dishes to pair with your Chicken Divan!
Nutritional Facts for Chicken Divan
Understanding the nutritional profile of your favorite dishes is essential for maintaining a balanced diet. Here are the key figures for Chicken Divan:
Calories
Each serving contains about 611 calories, making it a hearty meal perfect for an evening dinner.
Protein
With approximately 49 grams of protein, this dish is excellent for muscle repair and growth, ideal after a workout or demanding day.
Sodium
Keep in mind, Chicken Divan packs around 978mg of sodium per serving, so it’s wise to watch this if you’re monitoring your salt intake.
Enjoy this comforting casserole while being mindful of its nutritional content! For a healthier spin, consider pairing it with a side salad for added vitamins and minerals. You can also explore alternatives to lower fat and sodium levels by using low-sodium cream of chicken soup or substituting some of the cheese.
For more insights on balanced eating, check out the Mayo Clinic's nutrition advice.
FAQs about Chicken Divan
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover chicken is a great time-saver for making Chicken Divan. Just shred or dice the chicken and skip the sautéing step. You can still soften the onions and celery for added flavor, but using pre-cooked chicken will help you whip this dish together in no time.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a healthier or homemade version, consider making your own cream of chicken soup! You can also use alternatives like cream of mushroom soup or a mix of Greek yogurt and chicken broth for a lighter option. This flexibility allows you to cater to personal preferences or dietary needs while still achieving that creamy texture.
How can I make Chicken Divan healthier?
To enhance the nutritional profile of your Chicken Divan, try using low-fat dairy products or substituting half of the cheese with a lighter option like mozzarella. You can also boost the veggie content by adding more broccoli or incorporating other vegetables. Serve it over brown rice for added fiber, too!
Conclusion on Chicken Divan
Chicken Divan is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy sauce, making it a comforting family favorite. Its ease of preparation and comforting flavors make it perfect for any occasion. Try it tonight, and experience the warmth and satisfaction it brings!
Chicken Divan
Equipment
- Dutch oven or large pot
- 9 x 13 casserole dish
Ingredients
Chicken and Broccoli
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 2 lbs. Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts see notes
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- 1 yellow onion diced
- 1 stick celery diced
- 4 cups broccoli florets about ½ lb.
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 10.5 oz. cream of chicken soup https://thecozycook.com/cream-of-chicken-soup-recipe/
- ⅔ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- 2 ½ cups cheddar cheese shredded
Topping
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs
- 2 Tablespoons butter
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.
- Melt butter in a dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken, onions, and celery and toss to coat. Sauté for 3 minutes, until chicken is about halfway done, then add the broccoli and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Cook for 3-5 more minutes, until the chicken is cooked through. Remove from heat.
- Add the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, seasonings, and half of the cheese. Stir to combine.
- Transfer to a lightly greased 9 x 13 casserole dish and top with remaining cheese.
- Cover and bake for 20 minutes. Remove and increase heat to 400 degrees.
- Combine the melted butter and Ritz crackers. Sprinkle over the casserole and bake for 8-10 minutes, until the top is golden brown. Remove and let it sit for 5 minutes prior to serving.
- Serve over rice, biscuits, or mashed potatoes.
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