Chicken Divan with Broccoli (no Soup!)

Chicken Divan is a classic comfort food favorite, and this version skips the canned soup for a fresher, homemade twist. Tender broccoli florets, juicy chicken, and a creamy cheddar sauce come together under a crunchy Ritz cracker topping. It’s cozy, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Behind the Recipe

I remember first making Chicken Divan as a teenager, using canned soup like everyone else. It was tasty, but I wanted something lighter and more vibrant. This version replaces the soup with a creamy cheese sauce, letting the broccoli and chicken shine while still giving that rich, comforting flavor. It’s now a staple in my household for quick weeknight dinners.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Chicken Divan originated in New York City in the 1950s at the Divan restaurant. It’s known for combining chicken and broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Over the years, it’s become a family favorite across the United States. This soup-free version keeps all the classic flavors while cutting out processed ingredients.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Divan with Broccoli

This dish is both comforting and wholesome, perfect for any meal.

Versatile: Serve with rice, pasta, or on its own.

Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples and leftover chicken.

Quick and Easy: Prep and bake in under an hour.

Customizable: Add your favorite herbs or spices to taste.

Crowd-Pleasing: Loved by kids and adults alike.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble ahead and bake when ready.

Great for Leftovers: Reheats well without losing texture.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Steam broccoli lightly to keep it bright and crisp.
• Use freshly shredded cheddar for the best melt and flavor.
• Mix crushed Ritz crackers with a little melted butter for extra crunch.
• Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to set the sauce.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Large Skillet: To cook onions and make the cheese sauce.
Mixing Bowls: For combining ingredients and preparing topping.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: For accurate seasoning and liquid measurements.
Baking Dish: 9×13 inch works perfectly.
Whisk: To ensure a smooth, lump-free cheese sauce.

Ingredients in Chicken Divan with Broccoli

1. Broccoli Florets: 4 cups. Fresh and vibrant for texture and color.
2. Butter: 2 tablespoons. Used to sauté onions and enrich the sauce.
3. Diced Onion: ½ cup. Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
4. All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons. Thickens the cheese sauce.
5. Chicken Broth: 1½ cups, unsalted. Base for the sauce’s savory flavor.
6. Milk: ½ cup. Provides creaminess without heaviness.
7. Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, divided. Rich, melty, and flavorful.
8. Sour Cream: ½ cup. Adds tanginess and creaminess.
9. Salt: 1 teaspoon. Balances flavors.
10. Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon. Adds a gentle kick.
11. Onion Powder: ½ teaspoon. Enhances savory depth.
12. Ground Mustard Powder: ½ teaspoon. Adds subtle warmth.
13. Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon. Gives aromatic depth.
14. Paprika: ¼ teaspoon. Adds color and mild smokiness.
15. Cooked Chicken: 3 cups, cubed. Tender and protein-rich.
16. Ritz Crackers: 12, crushed. Provides a buttery, crunchy topping.

Ingredient Substitutions

Broccoli: Cauliflower or mixed vegetables.
Cheddar Cheese: Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder flavor.
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt or cream cheese.
Ritz Crackers: Panko breadcrumbs with melted butter.
Milk: Any dairy or non-dairy milk alternative.

Ingredient Spotlight

Broccoli: Provides fiber, color, and a slightly sweet crunch that pairs perfectly with creamy sauce.
Ritz Crackers: Creates the signature golden, buttery topping that makes this dish irresistible.

Instructions for Making Chicken Divan with Broccoli

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Combine Ingredients:
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until soft. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in chicken broth and milk until smooth. Add half of the cheddar cheese, sour cream, salt, black pepper, onion powder, mustard powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until cheese melts and sauce thickens slightly.

3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
Steam broccoli lightly until tender-crisp. Place cooked broccoli and cubed chicken evenly in the baking dish.

4. Assemble the Dish:
Pour the cheese sauce over broccoli and chicken. Sprinkle remaining cheddar over the top. Combine crushed Ritz crackers with a tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese.

5. Cook to Perfection:
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the topping is golden and the sauce is bubbly.

6. Finishing Touches:
Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

7. Serve and Enjoy:
Spoon portions onto plates and enjoy the creamy, cheesy comfort with a crunchy topping.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

This dish is all about contrasts: tender, juicy chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, creamy tangy cheese sauce, and a crunchy, buttery cracker topping. Each bite combines softness, creaminess, and crispness for a balanced, indulgent experience.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Use fresh broccoli for color and flavor.
• Avoid overcooking the broccoli before baking.
• Stir sauce continuously to prevent lumps.
• Use a light hand with salt if using salted chicken broth.

What to Avoid

• Don’t skip the butter in the cracker topping — it’s key for crunch.
• Avoid over-steaming broccoli; it should remain vibrant green.
• Do not overbake; topping can burn if left too long.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 380

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready. Leftovers keep well in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the crispy topping.

How to Serve Chicken Divan with Broccoli

Serve as a main dish with rice, quinoa, or noodles. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Casserole Muffins: Bake individual portions in muffin tins for portable lunches.
• Divan Wraps: Wrap leftover casserole in tortillas with fresh greens.
• Omelet Filling: Use leftovers to stuff eggs for a cheesy brunch.

Additional Tips

• Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish.
• Sprinkle a little extra paprika for color before baking.
• Use freshly grated cheese for best melting and flavor.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve in a clean white casserole dish, letting the golden Ritz topping glisten. Garnish with fresh herbs to add color and freshness. The creamy sauce peeking through the golden crust makes it visually irresistible.

Variations to Try

• Cheesy Cauliflower Divan: Substitute cauliflower for broccoli.
• Spicy Divan: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
• Three-Cheese Version: Mix cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Gruyère.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and crackers.
• Creamier: Add a little cream cheese to the sauce for extra richness.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A1: Yes, just thaw and drain thoroughly to avoid extra moisture.

Q2: Can this be made ahead?
A2: Absolutely — assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready.

Q3: What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
A3: Panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter works well.

Q4: Can I add other vegetables?
A4: Yes, carrots, cauliflower, or peas are great additions.

Q5: Is this dish dairy-free?
A5: Replace milk, cheese, and butter with dairy-free alternatives.

Q6: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
A6: Yes, cubed rotisserie chicken works perfectly.

Q7: How do I prevent the topping from burning?
A7: Check the casserole at 20 minutes; tent with foil if browning too fast.

Q8: Can I double this recipe?
A8: Yes, use a larger casserole dish and adjust baking time slightly.

Q9: Can I make it gluten-free?
A9: Substitute flour and crackers with gluten-free versions.

Q10: Can this be frozen?
A10: Yes, freeze before baking and thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

Conclusion

This Chicken Divan with Broccoli is a comforting, cheesy, and family-friendly casserole that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Creamy sauce, tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a crunchy topping — it’s a dish that everyone will love. Simple, flavorful, and truly satisfying.

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