Chicken Divan Casserole
There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a warm, hearty casserole to bring everyone together at the dinner table. This Chicken Divan Casserole has become a staple in our home, and it’s easy to see why. With a creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked broccoli, this dish is both delicious and incredibly satisfying. I started making this recipe on busy weeknights when I needed something that would please everyone without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s simple, but it doesn’t compromise on flavor—every bite feels like a cozy, homemade hug.
The moment I set this casserole down, my family’s eyes light up. My kids love the creamy sauce, and my husband always goes back for seconds (and sometimes thirds!). It’s become one of those meals that we keep coming back to because it checks all the boxes: comforting, easy, and downright delicious. Plus, I love that I can customize it with different vegetables or add a little extra seasoning to keep things interesting. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy to pull together but impressive enough to serve to guests, this is it. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll find a permanent place in your weekly rotation!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe:
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then pop it in the oven.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just prepare it up until the baking step, cover it with foil, and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Q: What can I serve with Chicken Divan Casserole?
A: It’s great with a side of rice or noodles, which soak up the creamy sauce perfectly. A fresh side salad or some garlic bread also pairs well!
Q: Can I substitute the broccoli?
A: Definitely. While broccoli is traditional, you can swap it for cauliflower, green beans, or a mix of your favorite vegetables.
Q: Is it spicy?
A: Not at all! This dish is mild and kid-friendly. However, if you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne or some red pepper flakes.
What You Need to Make Chicken Divan Casserole:
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup sour cream
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon curry powder
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment:
9×13-inch baking dish
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Spatula
How to make it:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Ingredients: If you’re using fresh broccoli, steam it until it’s just tender (about 3–5 minutes). If using frozen, thaw and drain well.
Assemble the Casserole: Layer the cooked broccoli and shredded chicken in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Make the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, lemon juice, and curry powder. Season with a bit of salt and pepper to taste.
Pour the Sauce: Pour the creamy sauce over the broccoli and chicken, making sure to spread it evenly.
Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Bake: Bake the casserole for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips:
Use Fresh Ingredients: While frozen broccoli works in a pinch, using fresh broccoli gives a bit more texture and color to the dish.
Customize the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Sharp cheddar is classic, but Swiss or Gruyere add a nice twist.
Make It Healthier: For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise and sour cream. You can also use reduced-fat cheese.
Don’t Skip the Curry Powder: Even if you’re not a curry fan, this small amount adds a unique warmth without overpowering the dish.
Add a Crunchy Topping: For a little extra crunch, top the casserole with crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs before baking.
Latest Reviews:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This has become a family favorite! I love how easy it is to throw together, and it tastes amazing with a side of rice.” – Sarah T.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great for busy nights! Next time, I think I’ll add a little more curry powder for extra flavor.” – Mike L.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect comfort food. I made it for my kids, and they cleaned their plates. Definitely adding this to our regular rotation!” – Jen W.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Good recipe, though I might try a different cheese next time. The cheddar was a bit strong for my taste.” – Karen S.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “So easy and delicious! I made this for a potluck, and it was a hit. The leftovers were even better!” – Donna B.
Printable Recipe:
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Chicken Divan Casserole
A creamy, comforting Chicken Divan Casserole made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a flavorful sauce that’s guaranteed to be a family favorite. Perfect for busy nights!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Equipment:
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Ingredients: If you’re using fresh broccoli, steam it until it’s just tender (about 3–5 minutes). If using frozen, thaw and drain well.
- Assemble the Casserole: Layer the cooked broccoli and shredded chicken in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Make the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, lemon juice, and curry powder. Season with a bit of salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the Sauce: Pour the creamy sauce over the broccoli and chicken, making sure to spread it evenly.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake: Bake the casserole for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
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