Broccoli Chicken Divan is a delicious and comforting casserole dish that combines tender chicken, broccoli florets, and a creamy sauce, all baked together and topped with a cheesy breadcrumb topping. This classic recipe is perfect for a family dinner or potluck gathering.
To make Broccoli Chicken Divan, start by cooking boneless, skinless chicken breasts until they are fully cooked. You can bake, grill, or sauté the chicken, then shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Steam fresh broccoli florets until they are tender-crisp, or you can use frozen broccoli that has been thawed and drained.
In a bowl, mix together cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, curry powder, salt, and pepper. This creamy sauce adds flavor and moisture to the dish. Combine the cooked chicken and broccoli with the sauce, stirring gently to coat everything evenly.
Spread the chicken and broccoli mixture in a greased baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, which adds a gooey, cheesy layer to the casserole. In a separate bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle this mixture over the cheese.
Bake the casserole in a preheated oven until it is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The breadcrumbs should be golden brown and crispy. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Broccoli Chicken Divan is a hearty and satisfying dish that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. It’s a great way to sneak some vegetables into your meal and can be served as a main course or a side dish. Enjoy!
Ingredients:
For this enchanting dish, you will need:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
2 cups fresh broccoli florets, blanched
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil, for cooking
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: A Serenade of Chicken Start the culinary symphony by cooking the boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Season them with salt and pepper to taste. In a hot skillet drizzled with olive oil, cook the chicken until it reaches a golden-brown hue and is thoroughly cooked. Once done, allow the chicken to rest for a few moments before dicing it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: A Whirlwind of Broccoli While the chicken takes a respite, plunge the fresh broccoli florets into a pot of boiling water for a quick blanching. This not only brightens the broccoli’s color but also ensures a delightful crunch in the final dish. Once blanched, drain the broccoli and set it aside.
Step 3: A Melody of Creamy Sauce Now, let’s compose the heart of this symphony – the creamy sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir the ingredients until they harmonize into a smooth and velvety sauce.
Step 4: The Ensemble In a lightly greased baking dish, arrange the blanched broccoli as the first layer. Sprinkle a touch of salt and pepper to enhance its flavor. Next, lay the diced chicken pieces gently over the broccoli, creating the second layer of this culinary masterpiece.
Step 5: The Crescendo Pour the luscious creamy sauce over the broccoli and chicken, allowing it to cascade into every nook and cranny. The sauce ties the dish together, like a conductor uniting the orchestra. Ensure the sauce envelops the ingredients, promising a symphony of flavors in every mouthful.
Step 6: The Finale Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the sauce bubbles and the cheese turns a golden brown. As the Broccoli Chicken Divan bakes, the kitchen fills with a savory symphony of aromas.
Conclusion:
And there you have it – the Broccoli Chicken Divan, a symphony of flavors that transforms everyday ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. With its succulent chicken, vibrant broccoli, and the rich creaminess of the sauce, each bite transports you to a world of gastronomic delight. So, gather your ingredients, let the flavors harmonize, and savor the enchanting Broccoli Chicken Divan with friends and family. Bon appétit!