Classic Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe

When it comes to heartwarming, throwback comfort food, nothing hits the spot quite like Classic Chicken Divan Casserole. Combining tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and a luxuriously creamy sauce under a golden blanket of cheese and breadcrumbs, this dish is legendary for gathering families and guests around the dinner table. Whether you grew up eating it at Sunday potlucks or are discovering it for the first time, Classic Chicken Divan Casserole is the ultimate invitation to relax and savor an old-school favorite that still tastes every bit as magical today.

Ingredients You’ll Need

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s something special about how these simple ingredients come together in Classic Chicken Divan Casserole—each one offering just what the casserole needs for its signature richness, creaminess, and bold flavor. From the cozy chicken and vibrant broccoli to the bubbling, cheesy topping, don’t underestimate the importance of each ingredient for that perfect homestyle bite.

• Cooked chicken: For the best texture, use leftover roasted, poached, or rotisserie chicken shredded or chopped into bite-size pieces.
• Broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen both work, but a quick blanch keeps them crisp and vibrantly green, instead of mushy.
• Cream of chicken soup: This shortcut brings creaminess and that familiar flavor—don’t skip it for authenticity!
• Mayonnaise: Adds a tangy, rich undertone that lifts the creamy sauce beyond ordinary.
• Sour cream: For a little zip and depth, sour cream blends beautifully into the sauce base.
• Fresh lemon juice: Just a squeeze brightens the rich flavors and balances the casserole’s heft.
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Cheesy, melty, and sharp—this is essential for a bubbly, golden crown.
• Bread crumbs: Tossed on top, they crisp up while baking for irresistible crunch in every bite.
• Butter: Melted butter helps those bread crumbs toast up beautifully and infuses savory richness.
• Garlic powder, onion powder, salt & pepper: A dash of each brings all the flavors together—don’t be shy about seasoning to taste.

How to Make Classic Chicken Divan Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F, setting the stage for that bubbly, golden casserole. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray so nothing sticks. If using fresh broccoli, give it a quick two-minute blanch so it stays bright and tender-crisp in the bake; if you’re using frozen, just thaw and pat dry.

Step 2: Layering the Chicken and Broccoli

Arrange all the broccoli florets evenly along the bottom of your dish—like a green nest for the creamy goodness to come. Scatter the juicy, chopped chicken in a snug, even layer over top. This setup ensures every serving gets both savory chicken and vibrant broccoli in every forkful.

Step 3: Mixing the Creamy Sauce

In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. This sauce should be thick, glossy, and ultra-creamy. Pour the mixture right over the chicken and broccoli combo, using a spatula to spread it evenly corner to corner.

Step 4: Cheese and Crunchy Topping

Now comes the best part: sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese liberally across the surface until it’s well-covered. In a small bowl, mix the bread crumbs with melted butter and a little more seasoning. Scatter this mixture over the cheese, creating a layer that will get beautifully golden and crisp in the oven.

Step 5: Baking to Bubbly Perfection

Bake the Classic Chicken Divan Casserole uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden, the cheese is bubbling, and your kitchen smells utterly irresistible. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow everything to set up just right. Dig in and enjoy!

How to Serve Classic Chicken Divan Casserole

Garnishes

Spruce up each serving with a sprinkling of freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color. Some like to add a pinch of paprika or cracked black pepper for extra flair. Don’t be afraid to finish with a squeeze of lemon if you’re feeling fancy—just a hint wakes up all the flavors.

Side Dishes

Classic Chicken Divan Casserole is hearty as can be, but loves good company. Serve it alongside buttery egg noodles, fluffy white rice, or warm crusty bread to soak up every last drop of creamy sauce. A crisp green salad or roasted carrots on the side keeps things bright and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For potlucks or parties, try baking the casserole in individual ramekins for a personalized touch. If you’re feeling playful, scoop it over baked potatoes or stuff leftover casserole into puff pastry pockets for a savory snack. However you serve it, Classic Chicken Divan Casserole is the star of the show.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Classic Chicken Divan Casserole keeps beautifully! Store any extras tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more overnight, making lunch the next day a serious treat.

Freezing

This casserole is freezer-friendly for busy nights ahead. Simply assemble (but wait to add the breadcrumb topping), cover tightly, and freeze up to 2 months. Add the crumbs and bake from frozen, covered with foil for the first 30 minutes, then uncovered until hot and golden on top.

Reheating

To reheat, pop individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in a 350°F oven until piping hot. If the top needs a little perking up, add a fresh sprinkle of cheese or bread crumbs for extra crunch as it reheats.

FAQs

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Definitely! Turkey makes an easy and delicious substitute for chicken in Classic Chicken Divan Casserole, especially if you have holiday leftovers to use up. Just chop or shred the turkey as you would chicken.

Can I make Classic Chicken Divan Casserole gluten free?

Yes—just use your favorite gluten-free cream soup, gluten-free bread crumbs, and check that all ingredients are gluten free. The casserole will still bake up creamy and satisfying!

What’s the origin of Classic Chicken Divan Casserole?

It traces back to New York City’s Divan Parisien Restaurant in the early 20th century, where it became synonymous with elegant, creamy chicken casseroles. Its popularity quickly spread across the country and into home kitchens everywhere.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! While broccoli is traditional, feel free to sneak in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even roasted asparagus for your own twist. Just make sure veggies are cooked and drained well before adding to prevent excess moisture.

How can I make the casserole lighter?

For a lighter version, try using light or reduced-fat mayonnaise and sour cream, low-sodium soup, and a moderate hand with the cheese. The results will still be creamy and delightful—but with less richness per serving.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a recipe that brings comfort, nostalgia, and smiles to the table, Classic Chicken Divan Casserole is a must-make. It’s a time-tested favorite, always delivering the cozy satisfaction of home-cooked goodness in every forkful. Try it soon, and prepare for happy, hungry applause at your table!

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