Chicken Broccoli Cream Casserole

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

This creamy chicken broccoli casserole features juicy seasoned chicken cubes and tender broccoli coated in a rich blend of condensed soups, sour cream, and cheddar cheese. A layer of crushed crackers and more cheese adds irresistible crunch and extra flavor. Everything comes together quickly, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. The casserole bakes until bubbly and golden brown, then rests before serving for a comforting meal. Serve it alone, alongside a crisp salad, or over fluffy rice for a satisfying homemade favorite.

Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Tue, 10 Jun 2025 13:40:41 GMT
A bowl of chicken divan with a spoon in it. Save
A bowl of chicken divan with a spoon in it. | lilicooks.com

Chicken Divan has become a cozy comfort food classic in my kitchen especially on busy weeknights It brings together tender chicken broccoli and a creamy cheesy sauce with a generous crunchy topping that always gets rave reviews from my family

I started making Chicken Divan when I needed a make ahead meal that still tasted special My kids pick out the golden cracker topping first and always ask for seconds

Ingredients

  • Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Use two pounds for protein Chop into one inch cubes for even cooking Pick meat that is firm and not slimy
  • Garlic powder: Delivers warm flavor throughout the dish Go for fresh jars that smell strong
  • Onion powder: Adds depth of flavor and savory backbone Choose a fine powder without clumps
  • Curry powder: The secret spice for a gentle warmth and hint of color Look for a bright yellow hue
  • Salt and black pepper: Brings out all the flavors I like a medium grind for the pepper
  • Broccoli florets: Three cups cuts It is the veggie hero here Choose deep green heads with no yellowing
  • Condensed cream of broccoli cheese soup: Makes the sauce extra cheesy and comforting A good quality brand offers a thicker texture
  • Condensed cream of chicken soup: Rich base for blending Creamy soups hold the casserole together
  • Sour cream: Creates tang and adds to the luscious texture Go full fat for the best richness
  • Milk: Helps loosen the mixture Pick whole milk for added creaminess
  • Lemon juice: Brightens up the sauce Freshly squeezed packs more punch
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: Melty topping and filling I use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor and vivid color
  • Crushed Ritz crackers: Buttery crunch topping Use fresh crackers for the best results
  • Olive oil: For sautéing and greasing the dish Use extra virgin if possible

Step by Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Dish:
Get the oven ready by preheating to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit Spray or brush your eight by eight inch casserole dish with olive oil This prevents sticking and helps with cleanup
Season the Chicken:
Combine the chicken cubes with garlic powder onion powder curry powder salt and pepper Toss until each piece is fully coated with spices for even flavor
Brown the Chicken:
Using a large skillet heat the olive oil over medium heat Add the seasoned chicken and cook for five to seven minutes stirring occasionally until each piece is golden on the outside and cooked through Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate
Blanch the Broccoli:
Bring a medium pot of water to a boil Add the broccoli florets and cook for about five minutes until fork tender Quickly drain and set them aside so they do not overcook
Mix the Sauces and Veggies:
In a mixing bowl combine both cans of soup sour cream milk lemon juice cooked chicken and broccoli Stir until everything is evenly coated and creamy
Add Cheese to Mixture:
Stir one and a half cups of shredded cheddar into the bowl mixing gently so cheese is well distributed
Assemble in Baking Dish:
Spread the saucy chicken and broccoli mixture into your prepared casserole dish creating an even layer
Add Cracker and Cheese Topping:
Scatter the crushed Ritz crackers evenly over the casserole and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese For extra cheesy goodness feel free to use more
Bake the Casserole:
Place the dish uncovered in your preheated oven Bake for thirty to thirty five minutes until the top is bubbly and the crackers are golden brown
Rest Before Serving:
Allow the casserole to sit out for eight to ten minutes before serving so the flavors meld and the texture sets up nicely
A wooden spoon is scooping up chicken divan. Save
A wooden spoon is scooping up chicken divan. | lilicooks.com

My favorite part of this dish is the Ritz cracker topping which adds a buttery crunch that really makes the meal My family gathers around the table for this casserole on busy days and someone always sneaks extra cheese in before baking

Storage tips

Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to three days For longer storage freeze portions in airtight containers Thaw overnight in the refrigerator Microwave or bake to reheat and freshen up the topping by adding extra crackers before heating

Ingredient substitutions

You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience swap the cheddar for mozzarella or Swiss change up the soup flavors or use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream For gluten free needs use gluten free crackers and soups

A bowl of chicken divan with chips on top. Save
A bowl of chicken divan with chips on top. | lilicooks.com

Serving suggestions

This casserole stands alone but is great with a bright green salad buttery dinner rolls or spooned over rice For a colorful plate add roasted carrots or a simple fruit salad on the side

A bit of history

Chicken Divan was first created in New York City at the Divan Parisien restaurant in the early twentieth century It was a showy elegant dish for high society but it quickly became a mainstay in American home kitchens

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into cubes cook evenly and stay tender in this dish. Thighs can also be used for richer flavor.

→ Can I substitute fresh broccoli?

Yes, fresh broccoli florets are recommended for the best texture, but frozen broccoli can be used if thawed and drained well beforehand.

→ How do I get a crunchy topping?

Crushed Ritz crackers sprinkled over the casserole, then baked uncovered, create a crisp, golden top layer.

→ Is it possible to make ahead?

Assemble the casserole in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready, bake as directed, adding several minutes to the oven time if cold.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with a green salad, dinner rolls, or a side of steamed rice for a complete meal.

Chicken Broccoli Cream Casserole

Chicken and broccoli in a creamy casserole with cheesy cracker topping. Comforting, easy, and perfect for family dinners.

Preparation Time
15 min
Cooking Time
35 min
Overall Time
50 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Moderate

Cuisine Type: American

Output: 6 Serves

Dietary Options: ~

Ingredients

01 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
02 1 teaspoon garlic powder
03 1 teaspoon onion powder
04 1 teaspoon curry powder
05 ½ teaspoon salt
06 ¼ teaspoon black pepper
07 3 cups broccoli florets
08 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of broccoli cheese soup
09 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
10 ½ cup sour cream
11 ¼ cup milk
12 1 teaspoon lemon juice
13 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
14 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
15 1 tablespoon olive oil

Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F and spray or brush an 8x8-inch casserole dish with olive oil or cooking spray.

Step 02

Season chicken cubes with garlic powder, onion powder, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Combine so the cubes are fully coated, then cook in a large skillet over medium heat until slightly browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 03

Fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add broccoli florets and boil until fork-tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 04

In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed soups, sour cream, milk, lemon juice, cooked chicken, and broccoli. Add 1½ cups of cheddar cheese and mix until well combined.

Step 05

Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the crumbled Ritz crackers, followed by the remaining cheddar cheese.

Step 06

Bake uncovered at 350°F for 30-35 minutes, or until the Ritz crackers are golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly.

Step 07

Allow the casserole to rest for 8-10 minutes before serving. It can be served as is, with dinner rolls and a green salad, or over rice.

Tips

  1. For best results, use fresh broccoli instead of frozen.

Required Tools

  • 8x8-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Skillet
  • Cooking spray or brush

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Contains dairy from cheddar cheese, cream of broccoli cheese soup, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream.
  • Contains gluten from Ritz crackers.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 480
  • Fats: 28 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Proteins: 35 g