Description
Classic comfort meets elegant flavor in this creamy Chicken Divan casserole. Tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce come together in one bubbling, golden-baked dish—perfect for family dinners or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
- Cooked Chicken (cubed or shredded): 3 cups – Juicy and protein-packed base
- Broccoli Florets: 3 cups – Adds fresh texture and color
- Butter: 3 tablespoons – Rich base for the sauce
- All-purpose Flour: 3 tablespoons – For thickening the sauce
- Milk (whole or 2%): 2 cups – Creates the creamy béchamel
- Chicken Broth: ½ cup – Adds savory depth
- Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon – Brightens the sauce
- Garlic (minced or powdered): 1 clove or ½ teaspoon – Aromatic layer
- Salt & Black Pepper: To taste – Essential seasoning
- Grated Cheddar Cheese: 1½ cups – Sharp, melty richness
- Gruyère or Swiss Cheese: ½ cup – Adds depth and creaminess
- Bread Crumbs or Panko (optional): ½ cup – Crunchy golden topping
- Paprika or Smoked Paprika (optional): A pinch – For color and mild heat
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Combine Ingredients: Steam or blanch broccoli for 2–3 minutes, then drain. In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour. Gradually add milk and broth, whisking until smooth. Stir in mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper. Once thickened, melt in 1¼ cups cheese. Remove from heat.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Layer broccoli and chicken in the baking dish. Pour cheese sauce over top.
- Assemble the Dish: Sprinkle remaining cheese and optional breadcrumbs over the top. Dust with paprika if desired.
- Cook to Perfection: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Finishing Touches: Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving to set.
- Serve and Enjoy: Spoon onto plates or slice into squares. Garnish with herbs if desired.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for faster prep.
- Swap Swiss with mozzarella for a milder taste.
- Make ahead and refrigerate before baking.
- For a gluten-free version, use GF flour and breadcrumbs.