If you’re looking for the ultimate creamy, comforting weeknight dinner, this Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe will absolutely steal the spotlight at your table. It’s a timeless classic packed with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a luxuriously rich cheese sauce—all baked to bubbly, golden perfection. Easy enough for busy weekdays, yet delicious enough for company, this dish has rescued many a meal plan in my kitchen. With just a handful of pantry staples and a super simple method, you can whip up a crowd-pleaser that feels both nostalgic and new. If you’ve never made a Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe before, get ready for it to become an instant family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in how basic ingredients come together to create something unforgettable. Each one contributes its own texture, color, or hit of flavor—don’t skip any if you can help it, and feel free to customize for your crew’s tastes!
- Chicken: Use about 3 cups of cooked, chopped or shredded chicken breast for a protein-packed base; rotisserie chicken works wonderfully here.
- Broccoli: Four cups of fresh florets (or thawed frozen) build color and nutrition—steam or blanch just until bright green.
- Cream of chicken soup: One can (10.5 oz) delivers creaminess and instant flavor depth to your sauce.
- Mayonnaise: Half a cup helps create that classic, tangy richness—light mayo also works in a pinch.
- Sour cream: Another half cup adds a wonderful tang; you can swap for Greek yogurt for a lighter spin.
- Lemon juice: A tablespoon brings just the right fresh, zesty lift to balance all the creamy notes.
- Garlic powder: Half a teaspoon infuses the sauce with savory warmth without overpowering other flavors.
- Onion powder: Another half teaspoon is the secret to a deep, satisfying base in the sauce.
- Salt: Half a teaspoon is all you need to round out the flavors—taste and adjust as you like.
- Black pepper: A quarter teaspoon adds a mild kick of peppery spice for balance.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: One cup (plus more for topping!) makes the casserole irresistibly gooey and golden.
- Breadcrumbs: Half a cup is optional, but adds a beautiful, crunchy topping when mixed with butter.
- Melted butter: Two tablespoons for that ultimate bakery-style breadcrumb finish.
How to Make Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish so your Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe comes out with that perfect, easy-to-serve golden edge.
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
Steam or blanch your broccoli florets for 3–4 minutes, just until they’re crisp-tender and brilliantly green. Drain them well—no one likes soggy casserole—and spread them evenly on the bottom of the prepared dish.
Step 3: Layer the Chicken
Take your cooked, chopped or shredded chicken and layer it right on top of the broccoli. Spread it out for even chicken goodness in every bite; this is where rotisserie leftovers shine!
Step 4: Whisk Up the Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This mixture transforms into a silky sauce that ties everything together in the Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Pour your sauce evenly over the chicken and broccoli layers. Use a spatula or spoon to spread it to the edges so every nook and cranny gets coated in creamy, cheesy bliss.
Step 6: Top and Bake
If you love a crispy, flavorful topping, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole along with a handful of extra cheddar cheese. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until the top is golden and your casserole is nice and bubbly.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for about five minutes before you serve. This helps the sauce thicken just enough and makes getting clean slices a total breeze.
How to Serve Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A shower of fresh chopped parsley or thinly sliced green onions on top just before serving will add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor to your Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe. For a bit of heat, try a sprinkle of red pepper flakes!
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty on its own, but pairing it with something simple lets the flavors shine. I love serving it with fluffy white rice, buttered egg noodles, or a warm loaf of crusty bread to soak up all that extra sauce. A bright green salad or roasted vegetables round out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’d like to make this Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe dinner-party worthy, bake and serve in individual ramekins, or scoop portions into hollowed bread bowls for a fun, rustic presentation. Layer a handful of cooked rice under the broccoli for an all-in-one meal that’ll wow a crowd.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld and become even better the next day, making lunchtime a treat!
Freezing
This Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe freezes like a dream. Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it, then wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake in a 350°F oven until hot, about 20 minutes. Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between to keep the sauce creamy.
FAQs
Can I make this Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature while the oven preheats, and add a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Do I have to use chicken breast, or can I substitute thighs?
Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and are deliciously juicy. Just cook and chop them as you would with chicken breast for an equally satisfying result.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer to skip canned soup, make a quick homemade white sauce with butter, flour, chicken broth, and a splash of milk. Whisk until thickened, then season and use in place of the canned soup for a made-from-scratch touch.
Is there a way to make this Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe gluten free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free condensed soup and swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones, or leave off the breadcrumb topping entirely. Double-check all labels, especially for soups, to be sure.
Can I add other veggies or mix-ins?
Of course! Mushrooms, peas, or chopped red bell pepper are wonderful in this casserole. Just be sure to partially cook them first to avoid excess moisture in the finished dish.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t already, I can’t recommend trying this Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe enough! It’s the ultimate in cozy, shareable food—reliable, flexible, and always delicious. Give it a try for an easy weeknight win or a laid-back potluck; I have a feeling it’ll earn a spot in your favorite dinner rotation.
