The aroma of Chicken Divan with Broccoli wafts through the air, an irresistible blend of savory goodness and creamy delight. Imagine tender chicken swimming in a velvety sauce, kissed by the brightness of freshly steamed broccoli. Each bite is a symphony of flavors that dances on your taste buds, making you wonder why you ever settled for plain old chicken again.
This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a memory maker. Picture family gatherings where laughter fills the room, and everyone eagerly reaches for seconds. It’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or festive occasions when you want to impress without breaking a sweat. With its delicious flavors and delightful presentation, Chicken Divan with Broccoli promises to elevate your culinary game while leaving you with the satisfaction of knowing you served up something truly special.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Divan with Broccoli recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, even on your busiest days.
- The rich flavor profile combines creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli for a delightful experience.
- Visually stunning, it transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary feast.
- Versatile enough to be served at any occasion, from casual nights in to festive celebrations.
Ingredients for Chicken Divan with Broccoli
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well here; feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.
- Fresh Broccoli: A couple of cups of fresh broccoli florets will add color and nutrition; choose bright green ones for best results.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Select sharp cheddar for that extra flavor boost; it melts beautifully over the dish.
- Mayonnaise: Use good-quality mayonnaise to create that creamy texture; it’s the secret to the sauce’s richness.
- Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth so you can better control the saltiness in your dish.
For the Sauce:
- Soy Sauce: A splash of soy sauce adds depth; try to use low-sodium varieties to keep things balanced.
- Garlic Powder: This will give your dish that aromatic kick; fresh garlic works too if you prefer.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken Divan with Broccoli
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, grab a baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray—trust me; it’ll save you some scrubbing later.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Season your boneless, skinless chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper. Place them in a skillet over medium heat and cook until browned and fully cooked through—about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness. Transfer them onto a cutting board and slice them into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Steam the Broccoli
In a pot or steamer basket over boiling water, steam the broccoli until bright green and tender-crisp—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. You want those florets vibrant but not mushy!
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, chicken broth, soy sauce, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well blended—your kitchen should now smell like heaven!
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
In your prepared baking dish, layer sliced chicken and broccoli evenly. Pour the luscious sauce over everything before sprinkling the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
Step 6: Bake
Pop that beauty into your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden bubbly perfection emerges from inside.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining sauce for the perfect finishing touch!
Enjoy every cheesy bite of this incredible Chicken Divan with Broccoli!
You Must Know
- This delightful Chicken Divan with Broccoli is not just another casserole; it’s a creamy, dreamy dish that will have your taste buds dancing.
- Perfect for any weeknight, this recipe combines tender chicken and vibrant broccoli in a cheesy sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven and searing the chicken until golden brown. While that’s cooking, prep the broccoli and whip up the sauce. Finally, combine everything in a baking dish and let the magic happen in the oven.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or use cauliflower instead of broccoli for a vegetarian twist. You can also experiment with different cheese types or add spices like paprika for an extra kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always let your chicken rest after searing to keep it juicy when baked.
- For a crispy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs before baking.
- Don’t skip seasoning; it elevates every layer of flavor!
Sometimes, I whip up Chicken Divan when I’m feeling nostalgic; it’s a dish my mom made during family gatherings, bringing us all together over laughter and second helpings.
FAQs :
What is Chicken Divan with Broccoli?
Chicken Divan with Broccoli is a comforting casserole dish that combines tender chicken pieces, fresh broccoli, and a creamy sauce. Traditionally topped with cheese and breadcrumbs, it offers a delightful mixture of flavors and textures. This dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks and can be easily prepared ahead of time. The combination of chicken and broccoli not only makes it delicious but also adds nutritional value, making it a wholesome meal option for everyone.
How do I make Chicken Divan with Broccoli healthier?
To make Chicken Divan with Broccoli healthier, consider using low-fat yogurt instead of heavy cream for the sauce. You can also swap out regular cheese for reduced-fat options or omit the cheese altogether. Adding more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots can enhance the nutrient content while keeping the flavors intact. Additionally, using whole grain breadcrumbs instead of white bread adds fiber to the dish, making it a healthier choice for your family.
Can I prepare Chicken Divan with Broccoli in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Chicken Divan with Broccoli in advance! Simply assemble the casserole without baking it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This will ensure even cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze it after assembling; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking for best results.
What are some side dishes to serve with Chicken Divan with Broccoli?
When serving Chicken Divan with Broccoli, consider pairing it with simple side dishes that complement its flavors. A fresh garden salad dressed lightly can add a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or dinner rolls are great options to soak up the creamy sauce. For a low-carb alternative, steamed green beans or roasted asparagus work beautifully alongside this hearty casserole.
Conclusion for Chicken Divan with Broccoli :
In conclusion, Chicken Divan with Broccoli is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken, nutritious broccoli, and a rich sauce. It’s versatile enough to be made ahead or adjusted for healthier options without sacrificing flavor. Whether served on special occasions or as a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe provides comfort and satisfaction. Give this classic dish a try and enjoy its delicious taste while nourishing your family!
Chicken Divan with Broccoli
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Savor the creamy, cheesy goodness of Chicken Divan with Broccoli—a comforting casserole that combines tender chicken and vibrant broccoli for a delightful family meal.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- 1. **Prepare Your Oven**: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- 2. **Cook the Chicken**: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, cook them until browned and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes on each side). Slice into bite-sized pieces.
- 3. **Steam the Broccoli**: In a pot or steamer basket over boiling water, steam broccoli until bright green and tender-crisp (about 3-4 minutes).
- 4. **Make the Sauce**: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, chicken broth, soy sauce, garlic powder, and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth.
- 5. **Combine Ingredients**: Layer sliced chicken and steamed broccoli in the prepared baking dish. Pour the sauce over the top and sprinkle with remaining cheddar cheese.
- 6. **Bake**: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and bubbly. Serve hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider seasoning your chicken with herbs like thyme or rosemary before cooking. - You can substitute chicken with turkey or use cauliflower for a vegetarian version. - For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking.
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