Broccoli Chicken Divan: 7 Comforting Tips for Perfection

Name: Broccoli Chicken Divan: 7 Comforting Tips for Perfection
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed; 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz); 1 cup mayonnaise; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Oktober 13, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite comfort foods: broccoli chicken divan! This creamy and cheesy casserole is like a warm hug on a plate. Picture tender pieces of chicken mingling with vibrant broccoli florets, all enveloped in a luscious, velvety sauce. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel all cozy inside, perfect for chilly nights or when you need a little extra love in your life. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Trust me, once you try this broccoli chicken divan, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients for Broccoli Chicken Divan

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious broccoli chicken divan. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut.
2 cups broccoli florets, steamed: Fresh or frozen works great—just make sure they’re tender before adding them to the mix.
1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz): This is the creamy base that brings everything together.
1 cup mayonnaise: Adds richness, but feel free to substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Because more cheese is always better! You can also mix in some mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
1/2 cup milk: This helps to thin out the mixture and make it pourable.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: For that lovely aroma and flavor.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: A perfect complement to the garlic.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Just the right amount to add some warmth.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Sprinkled on top for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

Make sure you have everything on hand before you start, and let’s get ready to create this comforting dish!

How to Prepare Broccoli Chicken Divan

Prepping the Oven and Ingredients

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important, as it ensures your casserole cooks evenly. While that’s warming up, take a moment to gather your ingredients. If you’re using fresh broccoli, steam it until just tender—about 3–5 minutes should do the trick. You don’t want it mushy since it’ll continue cooking in the oven. And if you’re using rotisserie chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces. It’s all about those cozy, comforting textures!

Mixing the Casserole

Now, let’s get mixing! In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. I usually start with a whisk to get everything creamy and smooth. Once that’s well blended, gently fold in the shredded chicken and steamed broccoli. Make sure everything is evenly coated in that luscious sauce—trust me, you want every bite to be packed with flavor!

Assembling the Dish

Grab a greased baking dish (about 9×13 inches works great) and pour in that delicious mixture. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. The best part? Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top—because cheese makes everything better! Finally, add those breadcrumbs for that satisfying crunch. Oh, the anticipation is real!

Baking Instructions

Pop your casserole into the preheated oven and bake it for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are bubbly and the top is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving—this will help everything set a bit and make it easier to scoop out those hearty portions. Get ready for a cozy, cheesy delight that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this comforting dish in the oven before you know it!
Flavor-Packed: The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli creates a mouthwatering explosion of flavors that your taste buds will thank you for.
Family-Friendly: This broccoli chicken divan is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a perfect weeknight meal for the whole family.
Comfort Food Classic: It’s the ultimate cozy dish, perfect for chilly evenings or when you simply need some extra love on your plate.
Easy to Customize: Feel free to throw in your favorite veggies or adjust the cheese levels to suit your taste—this recipe is all about making it your own!
Leftover Heaven: It reheats beautifully, making for delicious lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Tips for Success

If you want to make your broccoli chicken divan even more amazing, here are some of my favorite tips! Trust me, these little tweaks can make a big difference.

Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a super quick meal, grab a rotisserie chicken from the store. It saves time and adds great flavor!
Cheese Variety: Don’t stop at cheddar! Mixing in some mozzarella or pepper jack can really elevate the cheesiness and add a fun twist.
Veggie Boost: Feel free to throw in other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or even some cauliflower. It adds color and nutrition—plus, who doesn’t love extra veggies?
Breadcrumb Crunch: For an extra crunchy topping, try mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs. It gives a delightful cheesy crust!
Make It Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it and pop it in the fridge, then bake it when you’re ready to eat. It’s a great time-saver!
Cooking Time Check: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. If it’s getting too brown before the center is hot, you can cover it loosely with foil.
Resting Time: Letting the dish sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving allows it to set up a bit more, making it easier to serve and savor!

With these tips, you’re on your way to creating a broccoli chicken divan that’s not just good but absolutely fantastic! Enjoy the cooking adventure!

Variations on Broccoli Chicken Divan

One of the best things about broccoli chicken divan is how versatile it is! You can easily get creative and switch things up to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

Different Veggies: While broccoli is a classic choice, why not try adding some fresh spinach, green beans, or even sautéed mushrooms? They all bring unique flavors and textures to the dish!
Protein Swaps: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can swap out the chicken for cooked turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just make sure whatever you use is cooked through before mixing!
Pasta Addition: For a heartier meal, mix in some cooked pasta—like rotini or penne. It turns the casserole into a comforting pasta bake that’s perfect for feeding a crowd!
Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture. It gives your broccoli chicken divan an exciting kick that’s sure to please spice lovers!
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile significantly. Try adding some chopped parsley, thyme, or even basil for a fresh, aromatic touch.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese! Swiss, gouda, or even a smoky cheese can give your casserole a whole new personality. Don’t be shy—mix and match to find your perfect combo!

So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen! These variations will not only keep your broccoli chicken divan exciting but also allow you to tailor it to your family’s preferences. Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now, let’s talk about how to keep that delicious broccoli chicken divan fresh for later! If you happen to have leftovers (which is a big if, because it’s so good!), here’s how to store them properly.

First, let the casserole cool completely before storing it. This will help prevent any condensation from building up and making it soggy. You can transfer any leftovers to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It’ll stay good in the fridge for about 3-4 days—perfect for those busy weeknights when you don’t feel like cooking!

When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is key to keeping that creamy texture and cheesy goodness. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the casserole in a baking dish if it’s not already. Cover it with foil to keep it from drying out, and heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s warmed through and bubbly. If you like a little extra crunch on top, you can remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of heating to get that breadcrumb topping back to its delightful crispiness.

And if you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Just pop it in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking to make sure it’s nice and hot all the way through. Just be careful not to overheat, or you might lose that creamy texture we all love!

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your broccoli chicken divan all week long, keeping those cozy vibes alive with every bite!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to comfort food, knowing what’s in your dish can make all the difference! Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values for one serving of my delicious broccoli chicken divan. Keep in mind that these are estimates, and the actual values may vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes:

Calories: 350
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 800mg
Total Carbohydrates: 15g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 25g

This broccoli chicken divan is not just a hearty meal, but it also packs a good amount of protein to keep you feeling satisfied. So, enjoy this comforting dish without any guilt, knowing you’re also getting some nutrients along with that cheesy goodness!

Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve gotten a few questions about broccoli chicken divan over the years, so let’s tackle some of the most common ones! If you’re wondering about substitutions, cooking methods, or how to make the most of this delicious dish, you’re in the right place!

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh broccoli is actually my favorite choice. Just steam it until it’s tender but still bright green—this way, it’ll hold its shape and add a lovely crunch to the casserole.

What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?

No worries! You can make a simple homemade substitute by combining equal parts of chicken broth and heavy cream or milk with a bit of flour to thicken it up. Season it with some herbs and spices to add flavor, and you’ve got a great base!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it’ll be cold going into the oven.

What can I serve with broccoli chicken divan?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up that creamy sauce. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, some garlic bread or roasted vegetables would make a fantastic accompaniment!

Can I freeze broccoli chicken divan?

You sure can! Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It should keep for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge and reheat as usual—just be prepared for the delightful aroma to fill your kitchen!

Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

Of course! You can lighten it up by using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and reducing the amount of cheese. Adding more veggies and using whole grain breadcrumbs can also boost the nutritional value without sacrificing flavor!

These FAQs should help clear up any confusion and get you excited to whip up your own broccoli chicken divan. If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out—happy cooking!

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Über mich

Hallo, ich bin Julia, das Herz hinter Vihaad Rezepte und eine leidenschaftliche Feinschmeckerin. Meine Liebe zum Kochen begann in meiner Kindheit, inspiriert von den herzhaften Mahlzeiten meiner Großmutter. Heute teile ich schmackhafte Rezepte, die Menschen durch gutes Essen zusammenbringen.