Ultimate Dump and Bake Chicken Divan: An Effortless Flavor Extravaganza
Experience the epitome of convenience and flavor with this delightful Dump and Bake Chicken Divan recipe. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can create a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress. Tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese come together in perfect harmony, making this a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Say goodbye to complicated cooking techniques and hello to effortless deliciousness!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Before we delve into the recipe, let’s address some common queries about this effortless Dump and Bake Chicken Divan:
Q: Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen? A: Absolutely! Fresh broccoli works just as well in this recipe. Simply blanch or steam it until tender before adding it to the dish.
Q: Can I substitute the condensed cream of chicken soup with a homemade version? A: Yes, you can! If you prefer to make your own cream of chicken soup, you can find numerous recipes online. Just make sure it’s the same quantity as called for in the recipe.
Q: Is it necessary to use white wine in the recipe? A: While white wine adds a subtle depth of flavor, you can substitute it with chicken broth or even water if preferred.
Q: Can I make Dump and Bake Chicken Divan ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking it straight from the refrigerator.
Now, let’s gather our ingredients and embark on this effortless culinary adventure.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups chicken, cooked and diced
- 1 (24 oz) package frozen broccoli florets, thawed
- 2 (10.5 oz each) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Assemble the Dish
- In the prepared baking dish, layer the cooked diced chicken and thawed broccoli florets.
3. Prepare the Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, white wine or chicken broth, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour Sauce Over Chicken and Broccoli
- Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken and broccoli in the baking dish, ensuring everything is well coated.
5. Add Cheese and Breadcrumbs
- Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the top of the dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and melted butter, then sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
6. Bake
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
7. Serve and Enjoy
- Allow the Dump and Bake Chicken Divan to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve it hot as a comforting main dish alongside rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For added flavor, you can season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or your favorite herbs and spices before cooking.
- Feel free to add extra veggies such as diced bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for a more colorful and nutritious dish.
- Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, Swiss, or Gruyère for a unique flavor profile.
Keto Version:
- To make a keto-friendly version of this dish, use a homemade cream of chicken soup made with heavy cream and chicken broth, and substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour. You can also use full-fat mayonnaise and omit the white wine or use a keto-friendly substitute.
Low-Carb Version:
- Follow the keto version substitutions mentioned above, but you can also reduce the amount of mayonnaise used to decrease the carb content further.
In conclusion, Dump and Bake Chicken Divan is the epitome of easy comfort food that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, it’s a meal the whole family will love. Plus, with minimal prep and cleanup, it’s a win-win for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
So, the next time you’re in need of a quick and delicious dinner solution, look no further than this effortless Dump and Bake Chicken Divan. With its irresistible flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!