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Classic Creamy Weeknight Chicken Divan Casserole

A close-up serving of creamy Chicken Divan casserole featuring chicken, broccoli, and a golden-brown breadcrumb topping.
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Make this classic Chicken Divan Casserole for a comforting family dinner. This recipe uses tender chicken and broccoli in a rich, homemade cream sauce, topped with cheese, making it a perfect easy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. If using fresh broccoli, steam or boil the florets until tender-crisp, about 5 minutes. Drain well. If using frozen, steam until tender.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth. Continue cooking, 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 salt, pepper, nutmeg, curry powder (if using), and 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
  6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, drained broccoli, and the creamy cheese sauce. Mix gently until everything is evenly coated.
  7. Pour the chicken and broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  8. In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise with the remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
  9. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the cheese layer.
  10. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a quicker preparation, use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken.
  • If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a splash more milk while cooking the roux.
  • Serve this hearty dinner over cooked rice for a complete meal.

Nutrition

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