Chicken Divan Recipe

Chicken: Cooked and shredded, this is the main protein of the dish.

Broccoli: Steamed florets add a healthy, green vegetable component.

Cheddar cheese: Shredded cheese provides a rich, cheesy flavor.

Cream of chicken soup: This canned soup creates the creamy base of the casserole.

Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and a slight tang to the sauce.

Lemon juice: Freshens up the dish with a hint of acidity.

Breadcrumbs: Used for the crunchy topping.

Butter: Melted and mixed with breadcrumbs for the topping.

When preparing broccoli florets, make sure to steam them until they are just tender but still bright green. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture and loss of vibrant color. To achieve this, steam the broccoli for about 3-4 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to halt the cooking process. This technique, known as blanching, helps maintain the broccoli's crispness and color, enhancing the overall presentation and texture of your Chicken Divan.

• cooked chicken - Substitute with cooked turkey: Turkey has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a good alternative to chicken.

• broccoli florets - Substitute with cauliflower florets: Cauliflower has a similar texture and can be steamed in the same way as broccoli.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the dish.

• cream of chicken soup - Substitute with cream of mushroom soup: Cream of mushroom soup provides a similar creamy consistency and a slightly different but complementary flavor.

• mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a tangy flavor and creamy texture while being lower in fat.

• lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar provides a similar acidity and brightness to the dish.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes add a similar crunchy texture and can be used in the same quantity.

• butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a similar richness and helps to bind the breadcrumbs.

• Allow the chicken divan to cool completely after baking. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.

• Transfer the cooled casserole into an airtight container. If you prefer, you can also use a baking dish with a tight-fitting lid.

• For short-term storage, place the container in the refrigerator. The chicken divan will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

• If you plan to freeze the dish, wrap the container tightly with plastic wrap and then a layer of aluminum foil. This double layer helps prevent freezer burn.

• Label the container with the date and contents. This will help you keep track of how long the chicken divan has been stored.

• For best results, consume the frozen chicken divan within 2-3 months. While it will remain safe to eat beyond this period, the quality may start to decline.

• When ready to reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture and flavor.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the chicken divan to an oven-safe dish if it’s not already in one.

• Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from over-browning. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

• For a crispy topping, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking. This will allow the breadcrumbs to regain their crunch.

• Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a serving on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, or until hot.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover Chicken Divan in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is warmed through and the cheese is bubbly.

• Microwave Method: Transfer a portion of the Chicken Divan to a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small corner open to vent. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Continue heating in 1-minute increments if needed, until hot.

• Stovetop Method: Place the Chicken Divan in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the casserole is heated through.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the Chicken Divan in a toaster oven-safe dish. Cover with aluminum foil and heat for 15-20 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the Chicken Divan in an air fryer-safe dish. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent the top from burning. Heat for 10-15 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Large bowl: Used to combine the cooked chicken, broccoli, and cheddar cheese.

• Separate bowl: Used to mix the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, and lemon juice.

• Baking dish: Used to transfer the combined mixture for baking.

• Small bowl: Used to combine breadcrumbs and melted butter.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the ingredients such as chicken, broccoli, cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and breadcrumbs.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the lemon juice and melted butter.

• Wooden spoon: Used to stir and combine the ingredients.

• Steamer: Used to steam the broccoli florets.

• Knife: Used to shred the cooked chicken if not pre-shredded.

• Cutting board: Used as a surface for shredding the cooked chicken.

• Oven mitts: Used to safely handle the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking and shredding your own.

Steam in microwave: Steam broccoli florets in the microwave to cut down on prep time.

Pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheddar cheese to avoid the extra step of grating.

One-bowl mixing: Mix all ingredients in one large bowl to minimize cleanup.

Pre-made breadcrumbs: Use store-bought breadcrumbs to skip making your own.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.