Print

Classic Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole with Rotisserie Chicken Option

A close-up serving of Chicken Divan with a golden, crunchy topping, creamy sauce, chicken, and broccoli florets.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This is the comforting Chicken Divan casserole you remember, featuring tender chicken, broccoli, and a rich, cheesy sauce. Use rotisserie chicken for an easy weeknight dinner that tastes like home style cooking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder (optional, for flavor depth)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 minutes until bright green and slightly tender-crisp. Drain well and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Then, whisk in the milk. Continue to cook, stirring often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  5. Remove the sauce from the heat. Stir in the curry powder (if using), salt, pepper, mayonnaise, and 3/4 cup of the cheddar cheese until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
  6. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, blanched broccoli, and the creamy cheese sauce. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
  8. In a small bowl, toss the panko breadcrumbs with 1 teaspoon of melted butter (optional). Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese layer.
  9. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown.
  10. Let the Chicken Divan Casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving over rice or alongside a simple salad.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, substitute half of the chicken broth with dry white wine.
  • If you prefer a tangier sauce, add 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard with the salt and pepper.
  • This dish is excellent served over fluffy white rice or egg noodles to soak up the creamy sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.unfoldrecipes.com/chicken-divan-classic-creamy-casserole-recipe/