Chicken Divan Broccoli Bake

Chicken Divan delivers everything you want from a cozy casserole soul-warming creamy sauce tender chicken crisp-tender broccoli and golden cheese all held together under a buttery breadcrumb crust. It is my go-to for nights when I need dinner to be both easy and crowd pleasing.

Ever since I made this dish for a potluck it has become a must for every family gathering. Even my picky eaters go for second helpings.

Ingredients

• Fresh broccoli florets: Chopped into small pieces brings color crunch and nutrition blanches to keep bright green and tender
• Rotisserie chicken: Shredded for convenience and extra savory flavor make sure to use both white and dark meat for best texture
• Cream of chicken soup: Creamy base deepens the savory element look for low sodium if you like to control salt
• Cream of mushroom soup: Adds earthiness and rich umami taste pick a high quality brand for better flavor
• Sour cream: Tanginess softens the richness and melds the flavors together use full fat for creaminess
• Monterey Jack cheese: Hand shredded melts smoother than pre-shredded and lends a mild creamy bite
• Cheddar cheese: Hand shredded brings sharpness and oozy golden top again shred yourself for melt and freshness
• Seasoned breadcrumbs: Form a crispy flavor-packed crust use panko for crunchier results if you prefer
• Olive oil: Gives the topping color and helps crisp the breadcrumbs extra virgin or light both work
• Salt and pepper to taste: Adds seasoning at every stage taste before final baking
• Garlic powder: Brings subtle savory depth pick a fresh sealed container for potency
• Parsley: For garnish optional adds fresh color and a hint of herby flavor chop right before serving for brightness

Instructions

Prep the Oven:

Preheat the oven to three hundred seventy five degrees to give the casserole an even golden bake

Blanch the Broccoli:

Boil broccoli florets in salted water for two to three minutes until bright green and crisp-tender then drain thoroughly to avoid soggy casserole and spread in a greased nine by thirteen inch baking dish season lightly with salt and pepper

Layer the Chicken:

Shred the rotisserie chicken and arrange evenly over the broccoli season with a bit of salt pepper and half the garlic powder for depth between every layer

Mix the Sauce:

Combine cream of chicken soup cream of mushroom soup Monterey Jack cheese and sour cream in a medium bowl season with salt pepper and the remaining garlic powder stir until smooth and well combined

Add the Sauce:

Spoon the creamy mixture over the chicken layer spreading out to cover every nook so each bite is saucy and flavorful

Mix and Top with Breadcrumbs and Cheese:

In a small bowl mix cheddar cheese seasoned breadcrumbs and olive oil until it looks sandy and damp then sprinkle evenly over the casserole for an even golden crust

Bake:

Place casserole on the center oven rack bake twenty minutes or until hot bubbly and golden on top edges will be sizzling and top should be lightly toasted

Rest and Finish:

Let the casserole sit for five minutes out of the oven so it sets up slice garnish with fresh parsley if you have it and serve while hot

Cheddar cheese is always my star ingredient the sharpness balances the rich sauce and makes for the absolute best golden crust. My grandmother always kept a block of extra sharp cheddar in the fridge for casseroles and it makes every Chicken Divan feel like a family celebration.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers tightly covered in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat covered in the oven at three hundred fifty degrees until warmed through or microwave in individual servings. To freeze assemble without baking then wrap tightly let thaw before baking as directed for best texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap in frozen broccoli if fresh is not available just thaw and pat dry before using. You can use cooked chicken breasts instead of rotisserie just season well for flavor. Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream if you want a little more tang or less richness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Divan with hot white rice buttered egg noodles or a crusty loaf of bread to soak up the cheesy sauce. A simple green salad with a bright vinaigrette balances the richness on the plate.

Cultural and Historical Context

Chicken Divan was born in early twentieth-century New York named after the Divan Parisien restaurant in Manhattan. Its creamy sauce and cheese topping redefined homey casseroles across America becoming a favorite for Sunday dinners and potlucks throughout the decades.

Seasonal Adaptations

Use asparagus tips or halved brussels sprouts in place of broccoli for spring Add a handful of thawed peas or chopped spinach for another pop of green Swap cheddar for Gruyere in fall for a nutty twist

Success Stories

This recipe has shown up at our family reunions potlucks and even holidays because it never fails to disappear first. My kids often help with layering and mixing so it becomes a memory making meal every single time.

Freezer Meal Conversion

To make ahead assemble the full casserole without baking then freeze tightly wrapped for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as usual. It comes out just as delicious and is a lifesaver on busy weeks.

This comforting casserole always brings my family back to the table. Try it once and it may become your tradition too.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What cut of chicken works best?

Shredded rotisserie chicken is convenient for this dish, offering tender, evenly cooked pieces that absorb flavor well. You can also use poached or roasted chicken breasts for a homemade touch.

→ Can I use fresh or frozen broccoli?

Both work fine! Fresh broccoli florets provide a firmer texture, while frozen florets can be used directly after thawing and draining to avoid excess moisture.

→ How do I prevent a watery casserole?

Be sure to drain broccoli thoroughly after boiling and ensure the cheese sauce mixture is thick. This keeps the texture creamy, not soupy.

→ Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead?

Yes, assemble everything except the breadcrumb topping and refrigerate. Sprinkle the topping on just before baking for the best texture.

→ What cheese alternatives can I try?

Swap out Monterey Jack or cheddar for Swiss, mozzarella, or Fontina based on preference. Each brings its own flavor notes and melting properties.

→ How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat portions in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, covering loosely with foil to keep the topping from burning while staying crisp.