3-Ingredient Chicken Divan That Melts in Your Mouth

Oh, Chicken Divan – just saying the name makes my mouth water! This creamy, cheesy casserole has been my go-to comfort food since I first tasted it at a church potluck years ago. There’s something magical about how the tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli swim in that rich, golden sauce. I’ve made it for countless family dinners, potlucks, and even fancy-ish dinner parties (shh, no one needs to know how easy it is).

What I love most about Chicken Divan is how it transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. That moment when you pull it from the oven, all bubbly and golden brown? Pure happiness. And the best part? It’s one of those rare dishes that’s equally perfect for busy weeknights and special occasions. Trust me, once you try this version, you’ll understand why it’s been a family favorite for generations.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Divan

Let me tell you why this Chicken Divan recipe never leaves my regular rotation:

• Creamy dreamy texture: That luscious sauce made with just the right blend of mayo, sour cream, and cheese coats every bite in pure comfort.
• Weeknight easy: With pre-cooked chicken and simple pantry staples, you’re just 15 minutes away from oven-ready deliciousness.
• Kid-approved magic: Even picky eaters can’t resist the cheesy topping – I’ve seen it work miracles at my dinner table!
• Your kitchen, your rules: Swap veggies, adjust spices, or lighten it up – this recipe bends to your cravings without complaint.

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Chicken Divan Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this cozy casserole sing – I’ve grouped them so you can shop and prep like a pro:

• The stars: 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded rotisserie works wonders), 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed just until bright green)
• Creamy dream team: 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup, 1/2 cup real mayonnaise, 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream
• Flavor boosters: 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon curry powder (trust me on this!), 1/4 teaspoon each salt & black pepper
• Golden finish: 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar (pack it in!), 1/2 cup breadcrumbs mixed with 1 tablespoon melted butter

Pro tip: Measure your cheese after shredding – those fluffy cups can be deceiving! And don’t skip the curry powder – it’s the secret whisper of flavor that makes everyone ask “What’s in this?”

How to Make Chicken Divan

Alright, let’s get this comfort food masterpiece into the oven! I’ve broken it down into foolproof steps – follow these, and you’ll have everyone begging for seconds.

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Preparing the Sauce

First, grab your favorite mixing bowl (I use my grandma’s old yellow one – it’s seen decades of casseroles). Dump in the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Now, here’s the fun part – whisk it like you mean it! You want everything completely smooth, with no white streaks of mayo left. That’s when you add the magic touches: lemon juice for brightness, curry powder for depth, and salt and pepper to make all the flavors pop. The sauce should be thick but pourable – like a creamy salad dressing. If it seems too thick, a splash of milk will loosen it right up.

Layering the Casserole

Time to build your edible tower of deliciousness! Spread your cooked chicken evenly in the baking dish – I like to use my hands to distribute it so there’s chicken in every bite. Next comes the broccoli – arrange those bright green florets like you’re creating a mosaic. Now, pour that luscious sauce over everything, using a spatula to nudge it into all the nooks and crannies. Don’t be shy with the cheese – sprinkle that cheddar evenly across the top like you’re making a cheesy blanket for your casserole.

Baking to Perfection

Here’s where the magic happens! Mix your breadcrumbs with melted butter (I use my fingers – it’s messy but effective) and sprinkle them over the cheese. Pop it in a 350°F oven and set your timer for 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are bubbling like a little cheese volcano and the topping turns golden brown. If you want extra crispiness, broil for the last 2 minutes – just don’t walk away! That topping can go from golden to charcoal in seconds. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving – I know it’s hard to wait, but this helps the sauce thicken up perfectly.

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Chicken Divan Tips for Success

After making this casserole more times than I can count, here are my can’t-miss tips for perfect Chicken Divan every time:

• Broiler magic: For an extra crispy top, pop it under the broiler for just 1-2 minutes at the end – but watch it like a hawk!
• Patience pays: Let it rest 5 minutes after baking – that waiting time helps the sauce thicken up beautifully.
• Fresh is best: Grate your own cheese if possible – the pre-shredded stuff just doesn’t melt as creamy.
• Broccoli pro tip: Steam your florets just until bright green – they’ll finish cooking in the oven without getting mushy.

Chicken Divan Variations

Oh, the beauty of this recipe is how easily it adapts to whatever’s in your fridge! Here are my favorite twists:

• Veggie swap: Try cauliflower instead of broccoli – it soaks up that creamy sauce beautifully. Frozen mixed veggies work in a pinch too!
• Lighter option: Greek yogurt stands in perfectly for sour cream – you’ll still get that tang without feeling weighed down.
• Cheese lovers: Mix in some Gruyère with the cheddar for extra nutty richness. Or go wild with pepper jack for a spicy kick!
• Crunchy topping: Swap breadcrumbs for crushed Ritz crackers or even French fried onions – oh my, the texture!

See? Your Chicken Divan can be a whole new adventure every time!

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Divan

This casserole shines brightest with simple sides that let it be the star. I always serve mine with fluffy white rice to soak up that glorious sauce – it’s a match made in comfort food heaven! A crisp green salad cuts through the richness perfectly. And don’t forget warm, crusty bread for mopping up every last cheesy bite. My family fights over the crispy edges!

Storing and Reheating Chicken Divan

Here’s the good news – this casserole tastes even better the next day! Let it cool completely, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight containers – they’ll keep for 2 months. When reheating, I like to sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before popping it in a 350°F oven until bubbly (about 20 minutes for fridge-cold, 40 from frozen). Microwave works in a pinch – just stir halfway through to distribute the heat evenly. Pro tip: Add a splash of milk if the sauce seems thick after storage – it’ll bring back that creamy magic!

Chicken Divan Nutritional Information

Now, I’m no nutritionist, but here’s the scoop on what’s in each comforting serving (based on my exact recipe): about 320 calories and a solid 18g of protein to keep you full. Of course, your numbers might dance a bit depending on the brands you use – that’s the beauty of home cooking! Just remember, with all that cheesy goodness, this is definitely a “hug in a dish” rather than a diet food. But hey, comfort food is good for the soul, right?

Common Questions About Chicken Divan

Try this recipe and share your results! I’d love to hear how your family enjoys it – tag me with your cheesy, golden-brown masterpieces!

3-Ingredient Chicken Divan That Melts in Your Mouth

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Print Recipe

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A creamy, cheesy casserole with chicken and broccoli, baked to perfection.

• Author: Sophia Collins
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Lactose

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon melted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, curry powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Layer cooked chicken and steamed broccoli in a baking dish.
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and broccoli.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
6. Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Notes

• Use fresh or frozen broccoli.
• Substitute rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Adjust curry powder to taste.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: chicken divan, casserole, easy dinner, comfort food