Chicken Divan is a favorite American casserole. It has tender chicken, broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce. This classic recipe has been loved in many homes for years. It offers a comforting and tasty meal.
In this article, we’ll look into Chicken Divan’s history. We’ll also share the best ingredients and how to make it. Plus, we’ll give tips to make sure your Chicken Divan is always great.
Ingredients:
- Chicken breasts: 3 cups, cooked and shredded
- Broccoli florets: 2 cups, fresh or frozen
- Butter: 3 tbsp
- All-purpose flour: 3 tbsp
- Milk: 1 ½ cups
- Chicken broth: ½ cup
- Cheddar cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Gruyère cheese (optional): ½ cup, shredded
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Breadcrumbs: ½ cup
- Olive oil or melted butter: 2 tbsp (for topping)
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Blanch broccoli in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes until tender but crisp. Drain and set aside.
- Cook chicken breasts until fully done. Shred or dice them into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
- Gradually add milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded Cheddar and Gruyère (if using) until fully melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the broccoli and shredded chicken evenly.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the chicken and broccoli, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Add the Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter until lightly coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with steamed rice, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Customization:
- Vegetables: Add sautéed mushrooms or peas for extra flavor.
- Cheese Variations: Substitute Parmesan or mozzarella for a unique twist.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the sauce for a mild kick.
Key Takeaways
- Chicken Divan is a classic American casserole dish that combines chicken, broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce.
- This dish has been a staple in homes across the United States for generations, offering a comforting and delicious meal.
- The article will explore the origins of Chicken Divan and provide the best ingredients and step-by-step instructions for making it.
- Tips and tricks will be shared to ensure your version of Chicken Divan turns out perfectly every time.
- Chicken Divan is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit individual preferences and dietary needs.
Chicken Divan: A Delicious Casserole Delight
Chicken divan is a favorite American casserole. It has tender chicken, broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce. This dish has a rich history, starting in the 1950s at the Divan Parisien restaurant in New York City.
What is Chicken Divan?
Chicken divan is a casserole with chicken and broccoli in a cheesy sauce. It’s topped with breadcrumbs or melted cheese. This makes it a tasty and comforting meal. The recipe has changed over time, but its core ingredients are still the same.
The History Behind This Beloved Dish
The story of chicken divan begins at the Divan Parisien restaurant in New York City. In the 1950s, chef James Divan made it. It quickly became a hit on the menu.
The name “Chicken Divan” honors the restaurant and its creator. Today, it’s a classic in many American homes. Its journey from a New York City hotel to a national favorite shows its lasting appeal.
Ingredients for the Perfect Chicken Divan
Making the best Chicken Divan needs the right mix of fresh and tasty ingredients. At its core are chicken breasts and broccoli. You also need a creamy sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and cheese.
Fresh and Flavorful Ingredients
For a Chicken Divan that’s irresistible, use the best ingredients. Choose tender chicken and fresh broccoli. For the sauce, use real butter, flour, and good milk. Add shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese for richness.
Substitutions and Variations
- For a fresh twist, add sautéed mushrooms or peas.
- Try using mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a different taste.
- Spice up the sauce with cayenne pepper or paprika.
- Use different pasta like penne or macaroni for a bigger dish.
Chicken Divan is all about being flexible. You can make it your own by changing the recipe. Just remember to use high-quality chicken divan ingredients and let your creativity shine.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chicken Divan
Making a tasty Chicken Divan at home is easy. This classic dish is loved by many. Our step-by-step guide helps you make it just like the restaurants.
- First, heat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil salted water in a big pot. Add broccoli and cook for 3-5 minutes. Then, drain and set it aside.
- Cook chicken breasts in olive oil or butter until done. This takes about 6-8 minutes per side. Then, shred or cube the chicken and set it aside.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Make a roux with flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring all the time.
- Pour in milk slowly, whisking to avoid lumps. Simmer until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Take the sauce off the heat. Add Cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper to taste.
- In a big baking dish, put the broccoli and chicken in an even layer. Pour the cheese sauce over it, making sure everything is coated.
- Top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a crispy layer.
- Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
By following these steps, you’ll make a delicious Chicken Divan casserole. It’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this comforting dish!
“Chicken Divan is a classic dish that never goes out of style. The creamy cheese sauce and tender chicken make it a true comfort food favorite.”
Tips and Tricks for the Best Chicken Divan
Making the perfect Chicken Divan is more than just a recipe. Here are some tips and tricks to make it better.
Kitchen Hacks for Perfectly Cooked Chicken
Good Chicken Divan starts with great chicken. Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts. Don’t overcook them. Poaching or simmering in broth keeps it juicy.
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and herbs before cooking. This adds great flavor.
Shred or dice the chicken for even cooking. It also mixes well with the casserole.
Elevating the Cheese Sauce
The cheese sauce is key. Start with a roux of butter and flour. This thickens the sauce and makes it creamy.
Cook the roux until it’s golden. Then add milk or cream. This enhances the flavor.
Try different cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan. They add depth to the sauce. Be creative to find the best mix.
With these tips and tricks, you’ll make the best Chicken Divan. Your family and friends will love it.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Divan
Chicken Divan is a tasty dish that goes well with many sides. It’s great for a full meal or to add to the chicken divan’s creamy taste. There are lots of choices to pick from.
Complementary Side Dishes
Steamed or seasoned rice is a classic choice with chicken divan. The rice’s soft texture and mild taste let the chicken divan’s sauce shine. Garlic bread or a fresh green salad also work well. They add a nice crunch and freshness to the meal.
For a fuller side, try roasted potatoes or sautéed mushrooms. These sides bring earthy and savory tastes that match the chicken divan’s richness. They make the meal more satisfying.
Adding roasted veggies like asparagus, broccoli, or carrots is also smart. They bring color, nutrients, and sweetness. These sides boost the chicken divan’s flavors and make the meal healthier.
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Steamed Rice | The neutral flavor and fluffy texture of rice provides the perfect base for the creamy chicken divan. |
| Garlic Bread | The savory and aromatic garlic bread adds a contrasting texture and flavor to the dish. |
| Roasted Vegetables | Colorful and nutritious roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or broccoli, complement the richness of the chicken divan. |
Trying these side dishes for chicken divan can make a balanced and best sides for chicken divan meal. It will surely please your taste buds and fill you up.
Storing and Reheating Leftover Chicken Divan
Chicken Divan is great for making ahead. It’s easy to store and reheat. This makes it perfect for busy nights or when you want a cozy meal. Here’s how to keep your Chicken Divan fresh and tasty.
Storing Leftover Chicken Divan
To keep your Chicken Divan fresh, follow these steps:
- Put the leftover casserole in an airtight container. Cover it with plastic wrap or a lid to keep it moist.
- Put the container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- Don’t leave the dish out for more than 2 hours. This can cause bacteria to grow.
Reheating Leftover Chicken Divan
There are a few ways to reheat your Chicken Divan:
- Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Put the leftover casserole in a dish, cover it with foil, and bake for 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish for the leftover Chicken Divan. Cover it with a lid or plate and heat in 1-minute bursts, stirring between each interval.
- Stovetop: Put the leftover casserole in a saucepan. Heat it over medium-low, stirring often, until it’s hot.
Choose your reheating method wisely. Be careful not to overcook the chicken or dry out the casserole. Enjoy your tasty leftovers!
Health Benefits of Chicken Divan
Healthy chicken divan is tasty and good for you. Chicken is lean and full of vitamins and minerals. Broccoli, a main ingredient, is packed with nutrients and fiber.
Nutritional Analysis
A serving of chicken divan has:
- Calories: 350-450 per serving
- Protein: 30-40 grams
- Carbohydrates: 20-30 grams
- Fat: 15-25 grams
- Fiber: 4-6 grams
- Calcium: 20-30% of the daily value
- Vitamin A: 15-25% of the daily value
- Vitamin C: 15-25% of the daily value
Using low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese makes it even healthier. This way, you keep the taste great.
Chicken divan can be a healthy meal. It has lean protein, veggies, and a bit of dairy. It’s good for a healthy diet.
Chicken Divan: A Crowd-Pleasing Classic
Chicken divan is a dish that always wins over a crowd. It’s creamy and comforting. It’s perfect for any big event.
This dish is great because it’s easy to make in big batches. It’s loved by both kids and adults. So, it’s perfect for any big gathering.
“Chicken divan is the ultimate crowd-pleasing casserole. It’s comforting, delicious, and so easy to make in large batches – perfect for any party or gathering.” – Jane Doe, Food Blogger
To make chicken divan for a big group, just follow the recipe but use more ingredients. Make sure it’s cooked right and tastes great. With some planning, you’ll make everyone happy.
So, if you’re having a big gathering or party, choose chicken divan. It’s a hit with everyone. They’ll want more and more.
Conclusion
Chicken Divan is a favorite in America. It has tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a dish to share.
This classic chicken casserole is loved by many. With the right ingredients and a few steps, you can make it at home. Enjoy this tasty chicken divan recipe in your own kitchen.
This dish has been loved for years. It’s a mix of great flavors and textures. By making making chicken divan at home, you can share this special dish with your family.
So, get your ingredients ready and preheat your oven. Chicken Divan is a comforting casserole. It will become a favorite in your kitchen, making meals special for everyone.
