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Chicken Divan Recipe
Ash Tyrrell

Chicken Divan Recipe

I remember the first time I whipped up Chicken Divan. Fresh from the oven, my kitchen smelled incredible, and the gooey layer of cheese melted perfectly over the tender chicken and broccoli.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 10-ounce packages of frozen chopped broccoli, steamed lightly
  • 2 cooked boneless chicken breast halves, chopped
  • 1 10.5-ounce can of condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 10.5-ounce can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

Method
 

  1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A hot oven ensures even cooking and the perfect cheesy topping.
  2. Take your steamed broccoli and spread it evenly across the bottom of your 9x13-inch baking dish. Whether you’re using frozen or fresh, make sure it’s not overly wet to prevent a soggy casserole.
  3. Lay chopped, cooked chicken evenly atop the broccoli. This layering ensures every forkful has a mix of protein and veggies.
  4. Combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, and lemon juice in a bowl. Stir with a whisk until everything is blended into a smooth, creamy sauce.
  5. Pour the sauce gently over the chicken and broccoli, spreading it evenly to cover the casserole. The sauce locks in moisture and brings loads of flavor.
  6. Top the entire casserole with shredded cheddar. This golden, bubbly layer is one of the highlights of the dish.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes or until the dish is bubbling and the cheese is lightly browned. If you prefer a crisp topping, consider broiling it for 1–2 more minutes.
  8. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool slightly for 5–10 minutes. This makes it easier to serve.

Notes

  • Season to Taste: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken or broccoli before layering for an added flavor boost.
  • Pat the Broccoli Dry: If using steamed broccoli, ensure it’s well-drained to prevent excess liquid from watering down the sauce.
  • Mix It Up with Toppings: Stir in breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for a crunchy top layer.
  • Double the Lemon: If you love a tangy zing like I do, consider increasing the lemon juice slightly.