Print

Classic Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole

A close-up serving of creamy Chicken Divan featuring chunks of chicken, bright green broccoli florets, and a melted cheddar cheese topping.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this classic Chicken Divan casserole for a comforting, easy weeknight dinner. This recipe features tender chicken, broccoli, and a rich, homemade cheese sauce baked to perfection.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, cubed
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup toasted breadcrumbs (optional topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain immediately and set aside.
  3. Prepare the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, 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 cheddar cheese and Gruyere cheese until fully melted and smooth. Whisk in the mayonnaise until combined.
  6. In a large bowl, gently combine the cooked chicken, blanched broccoli, and half of the cheese sauce. Mix until the ingredients are evenly coated.
  7. Spread the chicken and broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish. Pour the remaining cheese sauce evenly over the top.
  8. If using, sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs over the casserole.
  9. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is lightly golden brown.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This is a great family dinner idea.

Notes

  • For a faster meal, substitute 2 cups of store-bought rotisserie chicken for cooked chicken.
  • If you prefer a tangier sauce, substitute 1/4 cup of the mayonnaise with cream cheese.
  • This old fashioned casserole recipe freezes well; assemble completely, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cheffinity.com/chicken-divan-classic-creamy-casserole-recipe/