Chicken Broccoli Cream Casserole

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

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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

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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.