For a comforting weeknight dinner, Classic Chicken Divan brings together tender chicken and crisp broccoli in a luscious, cheesy sauce. A brief bake transforms simple ingredients into a golden-topped casserole that’s ready in under an hour. It’s the kind of cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that turns an ordinary evening into something special.
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Why This Recipe Feels Like a Hug
- Comfort in a Dish – This easy Chicken Divan delivers all the warmth of a classic comfort food dinner with minimal fuss.
- Simple, Wholesome Ingredients – We use fresh broccoli and a creamy Parmesan sauce with chicken for a nourishing meal.
- Effortless Assembly – Layer everything in one dish for a baked Chicken Divan that’s perfect for a busy night.
What You’ll Need for Creamy Chicken Divan
For the chicken
- Chicken Breasts – Boneless and skinless is the way to go here for easy slicing.
- Kosher Salt – Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- Black Pepper – Freshly ground adds the best warmth.
- Olive Oil – A good glug for cooking the chicken to golden perfection.
For the broccoli
- Broccoli Florets – Fresh is best for that crisp-tender bite.
For the sauce
- Unsalted Butter – Gives the sauce its rich, velvety base.
- All-Purpose Flour – The key to thickening everything up just right.
- Whole Milk – Whole milk makes the creamiest sauce, no question.
- Chicken Broth – Adds depth and savory goodness.
- Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated melts so much better than pre-shredded.
- Mayonnaise – Trust me, it makes the sauce extra luscious.
- Lemon Juice – Just a splash for a little brightness.
- Curry Powder – Don’t skip this—it’s the secret flavor booster.
For the topping
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Shred it yourself for the best melt and flavor.
A Peaceful Hour in the Kitchen
I find there’s a quiet rhythm to making this Chicken Divan recipe that feels more calming than chaotic. You’ll spend about 25 minutes getting everything ready, then it bakes for 45 minutes, filling your home with the most wonderful aroma. In just over an hour, you have a complete, comforting dinner on the table.
This timeline makes it perfect for a slow, cozy evening where you can move at your own pace. I love that the hands-off baking time gives me a moment to tidy up or simply relax before we eat. If you’re looking for more weeknight-friendly ideas that follow a similar gentle pace, you might enjoy our chicken casserole collection.
Chicken Divan
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound fresh broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Equipment
- skillet
- saucepan
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- oven
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Season the chicken breasts evenly with kosher salt and black pepper, then heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through; let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into 1-inch pieces.
- Steam the broccoli florets in a steamer basket over boiling water for 4-5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp, then drain thoroughly and arrange in an even layer across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk in the flour, and cook for 1 minute until smooth and bubbly; gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and curry powder until the sauce is smooth and evenly combined.
- Arrange the sliced chicken over the broccoli in the baking dish, pour the sauce evenly over the top, and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the cheese is melted and lightly golden brown on top.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
I often hear from friends who are sugar conscious or managing their glycemic intake, and I love finding simple ways to adapt recipes. For a more glucose-friendly version of this creamy Chicken Divan, consider using a natural sweetener like stevia in any accompanying side dishes, and focus on the wholesome proteins and vegetables in the main event.
For a lower glycemic impact, you could serve a smaller portion of this cheesy broccoli chicken bake alongside a large green salad. Another easy tweak is to ensure your chicken broth has no added sugar. Remember, it’s all about small, manageable swaps that fit your lifestyle.
My Favorite Tips for Perfect Chicken Divan
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks that make this Chicken Divan truly special. I want to share my favorites with you so your version turns out beautifully every time.
- Boost the Flavor – If you love a richer taste, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the creamy Parmesan sauce with chicken. It adds a lovely depth.
- For a Lighter Touch – You can easily create a lighter version by using half Greek yogurt and half mayonnaise. The result is still wonderfully creamy.
- Avoid Soggy Veggies – The key to a perfect baked chicken and broccoli casserole is to steam the broccoli just until tender-crisp. This prevents it from getting mushy during baking.
- Reheat Like a Pro – Leftovers are fantastic! Reheat gently in the oven covered with foil at 300°F to keep the sauce from separating. For more make-ahead inspiration, check out our chicken pasta bake.
The Nourishing Goodness in Every Bite
This savory chicken in curry sauce isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients that make it a fulfilling meal. The chicken provides lean protein, while the broccoli adds fiber and vitamins. Using a whole milk base gives the sauce a richness that satisfies without being overly heavy.
To understand more about the benefits of a balanced plate, you can explore resources like the origin of Chicken Divan, which touches on its classic composition. For another protein-packed dinner idea, our chicken Parmesan is always a hit. And if you’re curious about the role of specific ingredients, curry powder in Chicken Divan is known for adding more than just flavor.
A Lighter Take on a Classic Comfort
If you’re looking to lighten up this comfort food dinner, I have a few gentle suggestions that I use myself. Swapping the whole milk for 2% or even whole oat milk works beautifully in the sauce. For a different twist, you could use a blend of mozzarella and a sharp cheddar for the topping to maintain flavor while slightly adjusting the fat content.
Another path is to focus on leaner proteins; this recipe works wonderfully with turkey. For more ideas on creating satisfying yet lighter meals, our chicken cutlets offer plenty of inspiration. You might also enjoy the flavors in our spinach artichoke chicken for another healthy option.
Setting a Cozy Table with Chicken Divan
I love how this tender chicken with lemon mayonnaise sauce becomes the centerpiece of a relaxed meal. It always reminds me of Sunday dinners with my family, where the table was full of laughter and good food. This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that don’t compete for attention.
For a complete meal, I often serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A light, crisp salad with a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast. It’s the perfect comfort food dinner for gathering loved ones.
If you enjoy the comforting vibe of casseroles, you’ll find more ideas in our creamy spinach pasta or our hearty chicken tetrazzini.
Little Mistakes to Avoid for the Best Results
Even the most comforting recipes can have little pitfalls. Here are a few common ones I’ve learned to avoid with this Chicken Divan, so your cheesy broccoli chicken bake turns out perfectly.
- Overcooking the Chicken – Cook the chicken just until done before baking. It will continue to cook in the oven, and this keeps it tender and juicy.
- Skipping the Broccoli Steam – Blanching the broccoli first ensures it’s perfectly tender in the final dish. Skipping this can lead to crunchy, undercooked broccoli.
- Using Pre-Shredded Cheese – Cheese shredded from a block melts much more smoothly than pre-shredded, which often has anti-caking agents.
I remember one time I was in a hurry and didn’t let my sauce thicken enough on the stove; the result was a bit too saucy! Taking that extra minute makes all the difference. For more tips on getting flavors just right, see how Paula Deen’s Chicken Divan approaches the dish. And for another recipe where technique matters, our creamy garlic chicken meatballs have some great pointers.
Saving Leftovers for Another Cozy Meal
This baked Chicken Divan reheats wonderfully, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal. I often make a double batch to have a ready-made dinner for a busy night later in the week. It brings back that cozy feeling all over again.
Let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. For another great freezer-friendly option, try our cheesy garlic chicken bake. And if you love pasta, our cottage cheese lasagna is another fantastic meal to have on hand.
Your Turn to Create This Classic Comfort
I truly hope you feel inspired to try this easy Chicken Divan recipe. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a way to slow down and enjoy the simple act of cooking for yourself and others. The process is straightforward, and the result is so deeply satisfying.
If you enjoy this recipe, I think you’ll love exploring other comforting dishes on EasyCooksRecipes. You might find your next favorite in our garlic Parmesan chicken spaghetti or our simple chicken pasta. Happy cooking!
More Cozy Chicken Dinners to Try
If you loved this classic casserole, here are a few more comforting recipes that bring warmth to any table.
Classic Chicken Divan – The original creamy casserole with broccoli and a cheesy sauce.
Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken – Tender chicken breasts filled with a savory, cheesy broccoli mixture.
Baked Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo – A rich and creamy pasta bake that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Chicken Tetrazzini – A luxurious pasta casserole with mushrooms and a creamy sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is Chicken Divan?
Chicken Divan is a classic American casserole featuring tender chicken and broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce, often with a hint of curry. It’s named after the Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York where it was created, and it remains a beloved comfort food dinner.
What makes a Chicken Divan creamy?
The signature creaminess in a Chicken Divan comes from a rich sauce made with a butter and flour roux, milk, broth, Parmesan cheese, and mayonnaise. This combination creates a luscious, velvety texture that coats the chicken and broccoli perfectly.
Can you use rotisserie chicken in Chicken Divan?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for an easy Chicken Divan. Simply shred the cooked chicken and skip the pan-searing step. It’s a great time-saver for getting a comforting dinner on the table even faster.
What kind of chicken works best in Divan?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are traditional and work wonderfully for a baked Chicken Divan because they are lean and easy to slice. However, you can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor, as they stay very moist during baking.
