Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a comforting chicken divan casserole to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. This classic dish has been a family favorite for generations, with its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and flavorful chicken. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this cheesy chicken divan casserole is sure to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to love this comforting chicken divan casserole. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have this delicious dish on the table in no time. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese creates a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more.
Not only is this recipe easy to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences by adding your favorite vegetables or switching up the type of cheese. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken, making it a budget-friendly option for meal planning.
Ingredients
To make this comforting chicken divan casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other vegetables such as cauliflower or carrots. You can also use different types of cheese for added variety.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your comforting chicken divan casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Place the shredded chicken and broccoli florets in the prepared baking dish. Pour the sauce mixture over the top and stir gently to combine.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Pro tip: If you prefer a crispy topping, broil the casserole for a few minutes after baking to achieve that perfect golden crust.
Expert Tips for Success
Here are some expert tips to ensure your comforting chicken divan casserole turns out perfectly every time:
- For a healthier version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and mayonnaise.
- To make this dish even more comforting, add a layer of buttery breadcrumbs on top before baking.
- If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, you can poach some chicken breasts or use rotisserie chicken from your local grocery store.
- Make sure to cook the broccoli until it’s tender-crisp before adding it to the casserole. This ensures that it will be perfectly cooked when the casserole is done.
Variations and Substitutions
While this comforting chicken divan casserole is delicious as is, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:
- Swap the chicken for cooked turkey or ham for a different flavor profile.
- Add some sliced mushrooms for an earthy and savory twist.
- Use different types of cheese, such as Swiss or Gruyere, to change up the flavor.
- Replace the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian version.
Serving Suggestions
This comforting chicken divan casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with some delicious sides to round out the meal. Serve it with a fresh green salad and some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a heartier meal, you can also serve it with mashed potatoes or rice.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just make sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting with a cold casserole.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Simply portion out the leftovers into individual containers and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a comforting chicken divan casserole. Its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and flavorful chicken make it a beloved family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply want to enjoy a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and indulge in the comforting deliciousness of this classic dish. Don’t forget to share your experiences and enjoy every bite!
Cheesy Chicken Divan Casserole: A Comforting Family Favorite
A comforting chicken divan casserole with tender chicken, creamy sauce, broccoli, and a mix of cheddar and Parmesan cheese, all baked to golden perfection. This classic dish is easy to make and incredibly versatile.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Place the shredded chicken and broccoli florets in the prepared baking dish. Pour the sauce mixture over the top and stir gently to combine.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
