Imagine a warm, comforting casserole. It combines chicken, broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce. This is the Broccoli Chicken Divan, a dish loved for decades.
It started in the Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York City. Now, it’s a favorite for family dinners and special occasions.
A traditional Chicken Divan recipe uses 2 lbs. of chicken breasts and 4 cups of broccoli. It’s all in a creamy sauce. This dish is not only tasty but also full of nutrients.
It has 49g of protein, 15g of carbs, and 2g of fiber per serving. It’s perfect for a hearty meal or to impress guests.
The Story Behind Classic Broccoli Chicken Divan
The chicken broccoli casserole, also known as Chicken Divan, started at the Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York City. Chef Lagasi made it famous in the early 1900s. It has poached chicken, broccoli, and a cheesy sauce.
Now, it’s a favorite in America, with many versions. Some use pre-cooked chicken and canned soup for a quick fix. But the original is still loved for its creamy sauce and tender chicken and broccoli.
Origins at the Divan Parisien Restaurant
The Divan Parisien Restaurant opened in the early 1900s in NYC. It was famous for “Chicken Divan.” The dish had poached chicken, steamed broccoli, and a cheesy sauce.
Evolution into an American Favorite
Cookbooks from the 1950s and 60s started featuring Chicken Divan. It became a hit at parties and gatherings. People loved its looks and mix of meat and veggies.
Why This Dish Remains Popular Today
The chicken broccoli casserole is still loved today. It’s quick to make and has great flavors. It’s perfect for any meal, thanks to its healthy ingredients.
- 4-6 servings
- 1 hour preparation time
- 3-4 chicken breasts, cooked and sliced or cubed
- 4 cups of frozen cooked and drained broccoli
- Sauce made with 7 ingredients, including butter, flour, chicken broth, and heavy cream
This dish is a classic for good reasons. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken and broccoli, and rich flavors make it a favorite. It’s a great choice for a healthy or easy meal.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Chicken Divan
To make a tasty chicken broccoli dish like Chicken Divan, you need the right stuff. This homemade chicken Divan recipe calls for chicken, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, milk, and cheese. Fresh broccoli is best for the best taste and texture.
A quick broccoli chicken dinner like Chicken Divan is easy to make. Here are the key things you need:
- 2 pounds of chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1.5-2 pounds of broccoli, fresh or frozen
- 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 10.5 ounces of cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup of milk
- ⅔ cup of sour cream
These ingredients make a creamy and tasty sauce for your Chicken Divan. You can also add other things like dried breadcrumbs or unsalted butter. With these basics, you can whip up a tasty broccoli chicken dinner for any time.
Using these ingredients, you can make a homemade chicken Divan that’s yummy and simple. It’s great for a weeknight dinner or a special event. So, why not try it and make a tasty chicken broccoli dish today?
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make a tasty broccoli chicken recipe, like Chicken Divan, you need the right tools. A 9×13 inch baking dish is key for this easy recipe. It’s the perfect size for the casserole. Also, a medium saucepan is needed for cooking the chicken and broccoli.
Having the right tools is crucial for a great Chicken Divan. You’ll need a saucepan for cooking the chicken and a baking dish for baking. Don’t forget a cutting board, knife, and spoon for mixing and serving.
Cookware Essentials
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Medium saucepan
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Spoon
Having the right tools makes a big difference in cooking a healthy broccoli chicken recipe. With these essentials, you can make a delicious Chicken Divan. It’s perfect for any time.
Preparing Your Ingredients: Step-by-Step Guide
To make a tasty chicken broccoli dish, start by cutting 2 pounds of chicken into 1-inch cubes. Cook the chicken in a skillet with 2 tablespoons of olive oil until it’s browned. This should take about 7-10 minutes.
While the chicken cooks, steam 16 ounces of frozen broccoli florets until they’re tender. You can also use fresh broccoli for a crunchier texture. Using high-quality ingredients and preparing them carefully is key to a great homemade chicken Divan.
Here’s a brief overview of the ingredients you’ll need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 16 ounces frozen broccoli florets
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
By following these steps and using the right ingredients, you’ll make a mouth-watering chicken broccoli casserole. It’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Remember, the secret to a delicious dish is in the preparation. So, take your time and enjoy making your homemade chicken Divan.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 2 pounds |
| Broccoli florets | 16 ounces |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
The Secret to Perfect Broccoli in Your Chicken Divan
For a healthy broccoli chicken recipe, the broccoli’s prep is key. Choose the right broccoli and prepare it well. Steaming it for about 5 minutes makes it crisp-tender.
To make a creamy chicken and broccoli bake, blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. This keeps its color and texture. These steps help make a tasty and healthy broccoli chicken dish for any time.
- Choose fresh and tender broccoli florets
- Steam the broccoli for 5 minutes until crisp-tender
- Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 2-3 minutes
- Store the broccoli in an airtight container to preserve its freshness
By using these tips and the right ingredients, you’ll make a delicious creamy chicken and broccoli bake. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a special event. Its flavors and textures will impress everyone.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Broccoli florets | 1 lb |
| Cooked cubed chicken | 1 1/2 cups |
| Condensed cream of broccoli soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) |
Creating the Signature Cream Sauce
To make a classic Chicken Divan, you need a rich and creamy sauce. The easy chicken Divan recipe uses cream of chicken soup, milk, and cheese. This sauce is cooked until it’s thick and creamy, perfect with chicken and broccoli.
The key to a great cream sauce is to cook it slowly and stir constantly. This prevents lumps and makes the sauce smooth and creamy. Adding grated cheese gives it extra flavor.
- Use a combination of cream of chicken soup and milk to create a rich and creamy sauce
- Add some grated cheese to the sauce for extra flavor
- Cook the sauce slowly and stir constantly to prevent lumps from forming
By following these tips, you can make a delicious and creamy sauce. It’s perfect for your classic Chicken Divan. This sauce is a hit whether you’re making an easy chicken Divan recipe or a homemade one.
Assembly and Baking Instructions
To make a tasty chicken broccoli casserole, start by putting the ingredients in a baking dish. This quick broccoli chicken dinner is easy to make. First, layer the cooked chicken, broccoli, and cream sauce in the dish.
The secret to a great chicken broccoli casserole is layering. Start with chicken, then broccoli, and then cream sauce. Keep layering until you use all the ingredients. Finish with a layer of cheese on top.
Temperature and Timing Guide
Heat the oven to 350°F. It will take about 25-30 minutes to bake. The top should be golden brown and the sauce bubbly. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Visual Cues for Doneness
The casserole is ready when the top is golden and the sauce is bubbly. You can also check the inside to make sure it’s 165°F. This quick broccoli chicken dinner is great for busy families.
Here is a summary of the assembly and baking instructions in a table format:
| Step | Instructions | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat oven to 350°F | 5 minutes |
| 2 | Assemble the casserole | 10 minutes |
| 3 | Bake the casserole | 25-30 minutes |
This chicken broccoli casserole is a delicious and easy dish. It’s perfect for a quick dinner. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s a family favorite.
Make-Ahead and Storage Options
Making the easy chicken Divan recipe ahead of time saves a lot of time. You can prepare it up to 24 hours before baking. This is great for busy days or big events.
You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. This makes it perfect for meal prep or future parties.
This dish is great for those who want a healthy broccoli chicken recipe. You can use fresh or frozen broccoli. If using fresh, steam it for 7 minutes first.
This helps keep the broccoli’s nutrients and taste. The classic Chicken Divan recipe is also a good base to add your own twist.
Here are some tips for making ahead and storing the casserole:
- Refrigerate the casserole for up to 24 hours before baking
- Freeze the casserole for up to 3 months before baking
- Thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator before baking
- Reheat leftovers in the microwave in 30-second increments
By following these tips, you can enjoy a delicious easy chicken Divan recipe anytime. It’s perfect for any meal. So, try it out and enjoy the taste of a classic Chicken Divan recipe.
Healthy Modifications and Dietary Adaptations
For a healthier twist on broccoli chicken Divan, try using low-fat cream of chicken soup and low-fat cheese. This makes the dish lower in calories and fat. It’s perfect for a quick and healthy dinner.
Using gluten-free ingredients like gluten-free croutons is another good idea. It makes the dish more friendly for those with dietary restrictions. You can also use dairy-free cheese for a homemade chicken Divan that everyone can enjoy.
Other healthy changes include using olive oil instead of butter. Adding more veggies, like steamed broccoli, also boosts the dish’s nutrition. Here are some tips for a healthier broccoli chicken Divan:
- Use pre-cooked or frozen ingredients to reduce preparation time and waste
- Choose whole heads of broccoli instead of pre-packaged florets to save money and reduce waste
- Use leftover turkey or chicken to reduce food waste and make the dish more sustainable
By making these simple changes, you can make a healthier and more sustainable broccoli chicken Divan. It’s perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
| Ingredient | Healthy Modification |
|---|---|
| Cream of chicken soup | Reduced-fat cream of chicken soup |
| Cheese | Low-fat cheese or dairy-free alternative |
| Croutons | Gluten-free croutons |
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
There are many ways to serve your tasty chicken broccoli dish. You can pair it with rice, mashed potatoes, or biscuits. Adding a side salad or steamed veggies makes it a complete meal.
A creamy chicken and broccoli bake is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Serve it with a simple green salad or roasted veggies. For something more, try garlic bread or a crusty loaf.
Here are some other ideas:
- Rice pilaf
- Roasted veggies like asparagus or Brussels sprouts
- Garlic bread or a crusty loaf
- A side salad with a light vinaigrette
For a great chicken broccoli casserole, mix flavors and textures. Try different sides to make a meal that’s both tasty and filling.
A chicken broccoli casserole is loved by all, thanks to its creamy sauce and tender chicken and broccoli. Try it tonight and see what sides you like best.
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Rice Pilaf | A flavorful and aromatic side dish made with rice, vegetables, and spices |
| Roasted Vegetables | A healthy and delicious side dish made by roasting a variety of vegetables in the oven |
| Garlic Bread | A classic side dish made by spreading garlic butter on a crusty loaf of bread and baking until crispy |
Conclusion: Mastering Your Broccoli Chicken Divan
As we wrap up our journey through the Chicken Divan recipe, it’s clear this dish is a gem. It’s perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners. The mix of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and creamy sauce makes homemade chicken Divan a hit with everyone.
With the tips and instructions we shared, you’re ready to make a Broccoli Chicken Divan that shines. Focus on the right ingredient amounts, blanching broccoli well, and how to put it all together. Soon, you’ll be a pro at this classic dish.
So, let’s get started! Get your ingredients ready, preheat your oven, and enjoy the tasty Chicken Divan. Bon appétit!
FAQ
What is Broccoli Chicken Divan?
Broccoli Chicken Divan is a tasty dish. It has chicken, broccoli, and a creamy sauce. It’s great for family meals and special times.
Where did Broccoli Chicken Divan originate?
It started at the Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York City. Now, it’s a favorite in America.
What are the essential ingredients for Broccoli Chicken Divan?
You need chicken, broccoli, and cream of chicken soup. Also, cheese and seasonings like garlic and onion.
What kitchen tools and equipment are needed to make Broccoli Chicken Divan?
You’ll need a 9×13 inch baking dish and a medium saucepan. Also, a cutting board, knife, and spatula.
How do you prepare the ingredients for Broccoli Chicken Divan?
Cook the chicken and steam the broccoli. Then, make a creamy sauce with cream of chicken soup and seasonings.
What’s the secret to perfect broccoli in Broccoli Chicken Divan?
Choose the right broccoli and blanch it well. Store it right before putting it in the dish.
How do you make the signature cream sauce for Broccoli Chicken Divan?
Mix cream of chicken soup, milk, and seasonings like garlic and onion powder. This makes the sauce.
How do you assemble and bake Broccoli Chicken Divan?
Layer the ingredients in a baking dish. Cover with the cream sauce. Bake until it’s golden and bubbly.
Can you make Broccoli Chicken Divan ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead. Store it in the fridge or freezer. Reheat it well before serving.
How can you make Broccoli Chicken Divan healthier?
Use low-fat ingredients and Greek yogurt for cream. Add more veggies like carrots or cauliflower.
What are some good side dishes to serve with Broccoli Chicken Divan?
Try roasted potatoes, steamed rice, or a green salad. Garlic bread is also good.
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