Chicken Divan Casserole is a classic comfort food that brings together tender chicken, creamy broccoli, and a cheesy sauce baked until bubbly and golden. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, blending simple ingredients into something really satisfying and easy to love.
I especially like making this casserole when I want a meal that’s both hearty and a little bit special without too much fuss. The creamy sauce mixed with the broccoli and chicken always gets a thumbs up from everyone around the table, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while keeping things tasty.
My favorite way to serve Chicken Divan is with a side of buttery rice or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce. It’s a dinner that’s perfect for cozy nights, busy weeknights, or when friends drop by unexpectedly because it’s easy to prepare and always feels like a special treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast provides tender chunks for this dish. You can swap with rotisserie chicken to save time or use leftover turkey for a twist.
Broccoli: Steamed broccoli adds color and a fresh crunch. If broccoli isn’t your favorite, try cauliflower or green beans instead.
Cheese: Cheddar brings sharp, creamy flavor. Feel free to mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder, gooier result.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These create the creamy sauce base. Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute for sour cream, and plain yogurt can replace mayo if needed.
Curry Powder (Optional): This adds a subtle warm flavor but can be left out if you prefer a simpler taste.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs make the topping crispy. If unavailable, regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers work well too.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crunchy Topping?
The crispy breadcrumb topping is a great contrast to the creamy casserole. Here’s how to get it right:
- Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter before sprinkling. The butter helps them brown nicely.
- Use panko breadcrumbs if you can—they stay light and crisp.
- Don’t cover the casserole while baking, or the topping will become soggy.
- Keep an eye on the last 5 minutes to avoid burning the breadcrumbs. Golden brown is what you want!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size to hold the casserole and cook evenly.
- Steamer or microwave-safe bowl – for steaming broccoli quickly and keeping it crisp.
- Mixing bowls – you’ll need one for the chicken and broccoli, and another for mixing the sauce.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right amounts of ingredients and seasoning.
- Spoon or spatula – for mixing everything gently without breaking up the chicken.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked turkey or ham for a holiday or leftover twist.
- Try adding cooked mushrooms or diced bell peppers for extra veggies and texture.
- Mix in shredded Swiss or mozzarella instead of cheddar for a creamier, milder cheese flavor.
- Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the sauce for a little extra kick.
How to Make Chicken Divan Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups broccoli florets, steamed until tender
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon curry powder (optional, for slight flavor complexity)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for crunch)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and roughly 25 to 30 minutes to bake, for a total of about 40 to 45 minutes. It’s quick to put together and makes a wonderful warm dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Steam the broccoli florets until they are tender but still have a bit of bite. Drain them well to keep the casserole from getting soggy.
2. Combine Chicken and Broccoli:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken pieces and steamed broccoli.
3. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, curry powder if you’re using it, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Bring It All Together:
Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and broccoli. Gently toss to coat everything evenly so each bite is full of flavor.
5. Assemble and Top:
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
6. Add Crunch:
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter until well coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole to create a crunchy, golden topping when baked.
7. Bake and Serve:
Bake the casserole uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until it’s bubbling and the breadcrumb topping is nicely golden brown. Once done, let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving to make it easier to scoop and enjoy.
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for Chicken Divan Casserole?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain the broccoli well before using to avoid excess moisture that can make the casserole soggy. You can quickly steam frozen broccoli or microwave it until tender.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the casserole up to the assembly step, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Substitute the Mayonnaise and Sour Cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a great healthier substitute for sour cream, and you can replace mayonnaise with plain yogurt or even cream cheese for a different texture and flavor.