Description

Classic Chicken Divan Casserole is a comforting American baked dish that layers tender chicken and fresh broccoli under a creamy sauce, finished with a crunchy breadcrumb and cheese topping. This nostalgic casserole is quick to assemble and ideal for weeknight dinners or potlucks, offering rich flavor and a hint of retro charm.

Ingredients

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For the Casserole

3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
4 cups broccoli florets, steamed until just tender

For the Creamy Sauce

1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven – Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Broccoli and Chicken – Arrange the steamed broccoli florets evenly over the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Scatter the diced or shredded cooked chicken over the broccoli to ensure an even layer.
Mix the Creamy Sauce – In a medium bowl, whisk together the condensed soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the Casserole – Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the chicken and broccoli layers, spreading with a spatula so everything is well-coated.
Add Cheese and Breadcrumb Topping – Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the sauce. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter, then scatter this crumb mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
Bake – Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
Rest and Serve – Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to scoop.

Notes

You can substitute frozen broccoli florets (thawed and drained) if fresh isn’t available.
Rotisserie chicken is a time-saving option for the cooked chicken.
Try mixing in a little Parmesan cheese with the cheddar for extra flavor.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven or microwave.
If you’d like a lighter sauce, use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream and light mayonnaise.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
Calories: 375
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 430mg
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 85mg