Print

Classic Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole

Chicken Divan - Tasty

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A simple recipe for the classic Chicken Divan casserole featuring chicken, broccoli, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, suitable for a weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie chicken works well)
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup slivered almonds (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 3 minutes. Drain them immediately and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
  3. Make the sauce: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth until smooth. Continue cooking, stirring often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the salt, pepper, nutmeg, cheddar cheese, and mayonnaise until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
  6. In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked chicken and the blanched broccoli. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the chicken and broccoli mixture. Stir gently to coat everything.
  7. If using, sprinkle the slivered almonds over the top of the casserole.
  8. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is lightly golden brown.
  9. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute frozen broccoli for fresh, but do not thaw it before blanching.
  • For a richer flavor, use Gruyere cheese along with the cheddar.
  • If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a splash more milk during the final mixing stage.

Nutrition