Easy Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe

Discover a creamy, cheesy Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole recipe that’s quick, delicious, and perfect for family dinners any night of the week! This comforting casserole blends tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich sauce topped with melted cheese, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re a busy parent or just looking for a wholesome weeknight dinner, this Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food Classic: This casserole takes the beloved flavors of traditional Divan and makes them accessible in a quick, weeknight-friendly dish.
• Nutritious and Balanced: With lean chicken and vibrant broccoli, it offers a wholesome mix of protein and veggies to fuel your family.
• One-Dish Wonder: Everything bakes together in one pan, meaning less cleanup and more time to relax after dinner.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Mild, creamy, and cheesy flavors make it a hit with kids and adults alike, perfect for gatherings or casual meals.
• Easy to Customize: The recipe adapts easily for different tastes and dietary needs, so you can make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole are simple, yet each plays an essential role in delivering the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From fresh broccoli to savory cheese, these staples come together to elevate a classic casserole.

• Cooked Chicken: Use shredded or diced chicken breast for lean protein and tender bites.
• Fresh Broccoli Florets: Adds a bright green color, a slight crunch, and loads of nutrients.
• Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: These create the creamy, tangy base of the sauce that holds everything together.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts perfectly, lending a rich, gooey topping.
• Lemon Juice and Dijon Mustard: Adds subtle acidity and depth for a balanced flavor.
• Breadcrumbs: For that irresistible golden, crispy crust on top.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper enhance the natural flavors without overpowering the dish.

Variations for Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole

Feel free to get creative and tailor this Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole to suit your preferences or pantry items. It adapts wonderfully to dietary switches and flavor twists.

• Swap the Protein: Substitute chicken with turkey, ham, or even tofu for different tastes and textures.
• Cheese Mix: Try mozzarella, Swiss, or Parmesan for unique cheesy notes or a blend of several cheeses.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep the crispy topping without gluten worries.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to give the casserole a kick.
• Extra Veggies: Incorporate mushrooms, cauliflower, or peas for added variety and nutrition.

How to Make Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until just tender but still crisp. Shred or dice cooked chicken breast. This prep ensures perfect texture in the final dish.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy to form the flavorful base for the casserole.

Step 3: Combine Broccoli, Chicken, and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, gently fold the cooked chicken and broccoli into the sauce mixture, ensuring everything is well coated and evenly combined without breaking the broccoli florets.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top generously with shredded cheddar cheese, then sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top to add a golden, crunchy finish.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and breadcrumbs have turned a beautiful golden brown.

Pro Tips for Making Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli holds its texture better during baking and adds vibrant color.
• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Slightly undercook to avoid mushy florets once baked in the casserole.
• Choose Quality Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but blending cheeses adds complexity.
• Use Homemade Chicken: Leftover roasted or poached chicken breast yields juicier, more flavorful bites than store-bought options.
• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes post-baking; this helps it set for easier serving.

How to Serve Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top for a bright, herbaceous finish that complements the creamy casserole.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted baby potatoes to balance creamy richness with fresh textures.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this casserole in individual ramekins, perfect for portion control and elegant presentation for guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the prepared casserole (before baking) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as usual.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through, to keep the topping crispy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid extra moisture that can make the casserole soggy.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely. It stores well in the fridge and can be portioned out for easy reheating during busy weekdays.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the mayo, sour cream, and cheese with dairy-free alternatives to suit lactose intolerance or vegan preferences.

How can I make it lower in calories?

Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and sour cream and opt for reduced-fat cheese to lighten the dish.

What side dishes pair well with Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole?

Simple sides like steamed rice, garlic bread, or a fresh garden salad perfectly balance the rich flavors of this casserole.

Final Thoughts

Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole is a delicious, comforting dish that combines wholesome ingredients with a creamy, cheesy sauce your whole family will adore. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or planning a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe brings warmth, flavor, and ease to your table. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to casserole recipe!

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