Chicken Divan is one of those timeless dishes that brings together comforting creaminess, savory chicken, and vibrant broccoli in a way that feels like a warm hug from your own kitchen. This casserole has been a beloved classic since the mid-20th century, originally crafted in New York’s Divan Parisien restaurant — a little history that adds charm to every spoonful.
What makes this recipe stand out is the rich blend of cream of chicken and mushroom soups mixed with mayonnaise and a sharp touch of lemon juice, layered with tender chicken and broccoli, then topped with melty cheddar cheese. The result is a luscious, satisfying meal that’s both simple and elegant.
This recipe is trending now because it perfectly suits busy lifestyles: it’s straightforward to prepare, freezes well, and is a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or potlucks. Plus, it’s a comforting way to sneak in veggies without anyone batting an eye.
Did you know casseroles like Chicken Divan are among the top comfort foods Americans crave for quick weeknight meals? Serve it alongside crunchy Garlic Bread and a refreshing Mezcalita Cocktail to balance the creamy richness.
Trust me, this dish is a delicious crowd-pleaser.
What’s So Special About This Dish?
- Comfort made easy: Whenever I want a cozy dinner without spending hours cooking, this recipe is my quick and impressive solution.
- Veggie boost without the hassle: It’s a sneaky way to get more greens on the plate — perfect for anyone looking to eat healthier without the fuss.
- A lighter creamy twist: I often swap mayo for Greek yogurt to keep the dish creamy yet lighter, ideal for a balanced lifestyle.
- Meal prep hero: Because it freezes well, I usually double the recipe and save some for those busy days when cooking feels impossible.
- Guilt-free indulgence: This casserole satisfies my craving for cheesy, creamy comfort food — without the heaviness or greasiness.
Chicken Divan Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking dish (9×13 inches recommended)
- Knife and Cutting Board
- Spoon or Spatula
Ingredients
- 2 10 ounce packages frozen chopped broccoli
- 2 cooked boneless chicken breast halves chopped
- 1 10.5 ounce can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 10.5 ounce can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 ½ cups shredded Cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook and chop the chicken breasts; thaw and drain broccoli.
- In a large bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Add chopped chicken, broccoli, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese; stir to combine.
- Transfer mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Variations For This Chicken Divan Recipe!
- Swap the Cheese Blend: Try mixing in Gruyère or Fontina with the cheddar for a nuttier, more complex flavor that melts beautifully and adds a gourmet touch.
- Add a Crunch Topping: For extra texture, sprinkle toasted panko breadcrumbs mixed with a little Parmesan and melted butter on top before baking. It creates a delightful golden crust.
- Incorporate Herbs: Fresh thyme or tarragon stirred into the sauce can brighten the dish and give it a subtle aromatic lift without overpowering the classic flavors.
- Make it Lighter with Veggies: Fold in some finely chopped cauliflower or zucchini along with the broccoli to increase volume and nutrients while keeping it creamy.
- Boost Umami: A splash of white wine or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard in the sauce adds depth and enhances the savory profile without changing the recipe’s ease or texture.
- Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken with turkey breast or even cooked salmon for a fresh twist that still works well with the creamy base and broccoli.
These tweaks keep the spirit of the classic Chicken Divan but offer new layers of flavor and texture to keep things interesting.
Quick Questions?
Q. Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Ans: Absolutely! Just steam fresh broccoli until tender before layering it in the casserole.
Q. Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
Ans: Try using dairy-free cream soups, vegan mayo, and a dairy-free cheese alternative for a similar creamy texture.
Q. Can I add other veggies?
Ans: Yes, adding cauliflower or mushrooms can enhance the texture and flavor nicely.
Q. How do I store leftovers?
Ans: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
