Chicken Divine
Chicken Divine Recipe: A Delicious American Dish with Broccoli and Cheese
Introduction
Chicken Divine is a classic casserole dish that combines tender chicken, broccoli, and a creamy sauce topped with cheese and breadcrumbs. This comforting and flavorful dish is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
History
The origins of Chicken Divine are unclear, but it has been a popular dish in American households for decades. This recipe has been passed down through generations and has become a staple in many homes.
Ingredients
- 6 chicken breasts or 1 large whole chicken
- 2 packages of fresh or frozen broccoli flowerets
- 2 cans of cream of chicken soup
- 2 tbsp of fresh or dried parsley
- 1 small jar of pimento strips
- 1 cup of grated cheese
- 0.25 cup of fresh lemon juice
- 1 carton of sour cream
- 0.5 cup of mayonnaise
- breadcrumbs
- a dash of worcestershire sauce
- a dash of tabasco sauce
- 1 – 2 tsp of curry powder
How to prepare
- Cover the chicken with water. Add bay leaf, celery tops, salt, and pepper. Cook.
- Debone the chicken.
- Blanche the broccoli and let it cool on paper towels. Place the chicken in a buttered casserole dish.
- Add a layer of broccoli and pimento strips.
- Mix the soup, sour cream, half of the cheese, curry, and parsley. Pour the mixture over the chicken and broccoli. Repeat the layers.
- Top with cheese, bread crumbs, and paprika. Bake at 375°F (191°C) for 35 to 40 minutes.
Variations
- Substitute the chicken with turkey or tofu for a different twist on this classic dish.
- Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or other vegetables to the casserole for added flavor and nutrition.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to blanche the broccoli before adding it to the casserole to ensure it is cooked to perfection.
- Deboning the chicken before assembling the casserole will make it easier to serve and enjoy.
- Adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce and Tabasco sauce to the sauce mixture will give it a delicious depth of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Divine can be served with a side of rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
Baking the casserole at 375°F (191°C) ensures that the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use frozen broccoli instead of fresh, and you can use any type of cheese you prefer in this recipe.
Make Ahead Tips
You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it. This is a great make-ahead dish for busy weeknights.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the casserole with fresh parsley or lemon slices for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Chicken Divine pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Chicken Divine contains approximately 350 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Chicken Divine contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Chicken Divine contains approximately 20 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Chicken Divine contains approximately 25 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Chicken Divine is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and iron.
Alergens
Chicken Divine contains dairy (cheese, sour cream) and mayonnaise, which may be allergens for some individuals.
Summary
Chicken Divine is a balanced meal that provides a good amount of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a family dinner.
Summary
Chicken Divine is a delicious and comforting casserole dish that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful broccoli, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
How did I get this recipe?
I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Chicken Divine. It was tucked away in an old cookbook that I had inherited from my own grandmother, passed down through generations of women in our family. As I flipped through the pages, I stumbled upon the faded, handwritten notes detailing the ingredients and instructions for this dish. The name alone sparked my interest, and I knew I had to give it a try.
I remembered my grandmother telling me stories about how she had learned to cook from her own mother, who had a knack for creating delicious meals out of simple ingredients. She would spend hours in the kitchen, experimenting with different flavors and techniques, always eager to learn and improve her skills. I admired her dedication and passion for cooking, and I knew that I wanted to follow in her footsteps.
So, armed with the recipe for Chicken Divine, I set out to recreate this dish in my own kitchen. The ingredients were fairly straightforward - chicken breasts, mushrooms, cream of chicken soup, and a few seasonings. But it was the method of preparation that intrigued me. I had never seen a recipe quite like this before, with its unique combination of ingredients and cooking techniques.
I began by sautéing the chicken breasts in a skillet, browning them on both sides until they were cooked through. Then, I added the sliced mushrooms and let them cook down until they were soft and tender. Next, I poured in the cream of chicken soup, stirring it into the mixture until it was smooth and creamy. Finally, I sprinkled in a few seasonings - salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder - to bring out the flavors of the dish.
As the Chicken Divine simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with its rich aroma, I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. I had followed the recipe to the letter, trusting in the wisdom and expertise of those who had come before me. And now, as I spooned the dish onto a plate and took my first bite, I knew that I had found a new family favorite.
Over the years, I have made Chicken Divine countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my own tastes. Sometimes I add a splash of white wine for a more elegant touch, or a handful of fresh herbs for a burst of flavor. But no matter how I choose to prepare it, the dish always brings back memories of my grandmother and the legacy of cooking that she passed down to me.
As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to discover the recipe for Chicken Divine, I am filled with gratitude for the women who came before me. Their knowledge and passion for cooking have inspired me to continue exploring new recipes, experimenting with ingredients, and sharing the joy of food with my own family. And as I look to the future, I know that the tradition of cooking and sharing meals together will continue to be a cherished part of our family for generations to come.
Categories
| American Recipes | Broccoli Recipes | Cheese Recipes | Chicken Recipes | Dinner Recipes | Main Dish Poultry Recipes |