Picture a bubbling casserole fresh from the oven: tender chicken, verdant broccoli, all cloaked in a creamy, cheesy sauce that hints of lemon and warm curry. The top is golden and crisp, the inside rich and comforting. That first forkful—soft florets, moist chicken, creamy sauce—is pure homey bliss. This is Chicken Divan with Mayo, a mid‑century casserole classic with a twist of ease and nostalgia.

Behind the Recipe

This version of Chicken Divan was born on a weeknight when I craved something both comforting and convenient. I had leftover chicken, frozen broccoli, a can of soup, and a jar of mayonnaise. With a squeeze of lemon and a dash of curry powder, I coaxed out flavor, baked it until bubbly, and realized I had inherited something timeless. Now, it’s in heavy rotation in my kitchen.

The Origins & Tradition

Chicken Divan is traditionally a more elegant casserole, first reportedly made at the Divan Parisien restaurant in New York City, combining poached chicken, broccoli, and a rich Mornay (cheese) sauce. Wikipedia Over the years, home cooks adapted it into a simpler, pantry-friendly version using mayonnaise, canned soups, and basic ingredients. Allrecipes+2Our Best Bites+2 The mayonnaise‑based shortcut version is beloved for how quickly it comes together without sacrificing flavor. Taste of Home+1

Why You’ll Love This Version

It’s comforting and creamy, yet accessible in flavor
You can use leftover or rotisserie chicken and frozen broccoli
It’s a one‑dish meal with minimal fuss
The mayo + soup sauce gives richness without needing to make a béchamel
It’s nostalgic and crowd‑pleasing

Chef’s Pro Tips for Best Results

Don’t overload the casserole—give ingredients breathing room
Use a good quality mayonnaise—its flavor will shine through
Let the chicken and broccoli be slightly “just cooked” so they don’t overcook in the bake

If using frozen broccoli, thaw or par‑cook slightly to avoid excess moisture
Use a mix of cheeses (cheddar, Monterey jack) for melt and depth
Let it rest for a few minutes after baking so the sauce sets

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Baking dish (9×13 or equivalent)
Mixing bowl
Spoon or spatula
Measuring cups & spoons
Knife & cutting board
Foil (optional, to cover while baking)

Ingredients for Chicken Divan with Mayo

Here’s a version for about 6 to 8 servings:

2 packages (10 oz each) frozen chopped broccoli (or fresh, pre‑cooked) servingupsouthern.com+3Allrecipes+3Our Best Bites+3
2 cooked boneless chicken breasts (shredded or chopped) Allrecipes+2Our Best Bites+2
2 cans (10.5 oz each) condensed cream‑of‑chicken (or one chicken + one mushroom) soup servingupsouthern.com+3Allrecipes+3Our Best Bites+3

1 cup mayonnaise Taste of Home+2Our Best Bites+2
1 teaspoon ground curry powder (optional, to brighten flavor) Taste of Home+3Our Best Bites+3servingupsouthern.com+3
3–4 tablespoons lemon juice servingupsouthern.com+3Our Best Bites+3Facebook+3
1½ to 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or blend) servingupsouthern.com+3Allrecipes+3Our Best Bites+3
Optional: breadcrumbs or cracker crumbs + butter for topping servingupsouthern.com+2Allrecipes+2

Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions for Making Chicken Divan with Mayo

Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or spray your baking dish.
Arrange Broccoli and Chicken
Spread the broccoli evenly in the bottom of the dish. Layer the chopped or shredded chicken over the broccoli.
Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, combine the condensed soups, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and curry powder (if using). Stir until smooth and well blended.

Pour & Top
Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken and broccoli. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. If you like, mix breadcrumbs (or cracker crumbs) with melted butter and scatter over the cheese for extra crunch.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, until the casserole is hot, bubbling, and the top is lightly browned.
Final Touches & Serve
Remove from oven and let rest for 5–10 minutes so the sauce thickens. Serve over rice or with a side salad. Garnish with parsley or extra lemon if desired.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The magic lies in harmony. The broccoli offers a bright, slightly crisp contrast to the creamy sauce. The mayonnaise and soup base create richness without heaviness if balanced well. Curry and lemon cut through the creaminess with brightness, while cheese gives indulgent depth. When done right, each bite is creamy, cheesy, and comforting with just a hint of tang.

Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them

Too much moisture: thaw broccoli and pat dry, or pre-steam lightly
Overbaking: cheese may brown too much—watch the top
Weak flavor: be generous with lemon and curry (if using)

Skipping rest: the sauce may be too runny right out of the oven

Nutrition & Serving Info

Servings: 6 to 8
Approximate Calories per Serving: 300–400 (varies widely depending on cheese, mayo, and portions)
This casserole is rich in protein and calcium, and the broccoli adds fiber and vitamins.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

You can assemble this ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just bake a little longer if it’s cold. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 2–3 days. Reheat in the oven (covered) or microwave, adding a splash of milk or water if sauce becomes too thick.

Presentation & Serving Ideas

Serve this over plain rice so the sauce can meld with the grains. Alternatively, serve with steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad on the side. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a lemon wedge adds a polished finish. To elevate it, add toasted almond slivers or breadcrumbs for texture.

Variations & Creative Twists

Use rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken
Swap broccoli with cauliflower, green beans, or mixed vegetables
Use half mayo + sour cream for lighter tang
Add herbs: thyme, parsley, or dill
Use a mix of cheeses: cheddar, Gruyere, Monterey Jack
Add a dusting of paprika or smoked paprika on top

FAQ’s

Q: Can I skip the curry powder?
A: Yes — it’s optional but gives a nice dimension. The dish still works without it.

Q: Can I use fresh broccoli?
A: Yes. Steam or blanch it first so it’s slightly tender but not soggy.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes — ensure soups and breadcrumbs (if using) are gluten-free.

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: It’s better to freeze before baking. After baking, reheating may change the texture of the sauce.

Q: Can I reduce mayonnaise?
A: Yes — but be careful not to thin out your sauce too much.

Conclusion

This Chicken Divan with Mayo is retro, comforting, and truly satisfying. It manages to feel both classic and approachable. Whether for a family dinner, potluck, or just a cozy night in, it hits the right notes: creamy, bright, cheesy, and hearty. Let me know if you’d like the Tasty card, post image prompt, or Pinterest files for this version!