Creamy Chicken Divan

Creamy Chicken Divan Recipe - A Delicious American Dish with Broccoli and Cheddar Cheese

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Creamy Chicken Divan is a classic casserole dish that combines tender chicken, broccoli, and a creamy sauce topped with cheese and breadcrumbs. This comforting and delicious dish is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering.

History

The origins of Chicken Divan can be traced back to the Divan Parisienne Restaurant in the New York City Chatham Hotel. The dish was created in the early 20th century and quickly became a popular choice on the menu. It is said that the dish was named after the restaurant's location, which was in the Divan section of the hotel.

Ingredients

2 packages of frozen chopped broccoli
3 cups of cooked diced chicken
3 cans of cream of chicken soup
1 cup of mayonnaise
2 tbsp of lemon juice
0.5 tbsp of curry powder
0.5 cup of bread crumbs
2 tbsp of melted butter
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese

How to prepare

Cook the broccoli according to the directions.
Drain the broccoli well.
Arrange the cooked broccoli in the bottom of a 9x13 baking dish.
Arrange the chicken on top of the broccoli.
Combine the soup, mayo, lemon juice, and curry powder.
Stir the mixture well to blend all the ingredients.
Pour the mixture over the chicken.
Combine the bread crumbs and butter.
Sprinkle the bread crumb mixture over the top of the casserole.
Bake the casserole at 350°F (177°C) for 30 minutes.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole.
Return the casserole to the oven and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese melts.

Variations

Substitute the chicken with turkey or ham for a different flavor.
Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions for extra vegetables.
Use different types of cheese such as Swiss or mozzarella for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the broccoli well to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.

- You can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for this recipe to save time.

- Feel free to customize the dish by adding your favorite seasonings or vegetables.

- For a healthier version, you can use low-fat or Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Chicken Divan can be served with a side of rice, quinoa, or crusty bread. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables make a great accompaniment.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking techniques for this recipe include baking, sautéing, and mixing ingredients to create a creamy sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use fresh broccoli instead of frozen.

- Greek yogurt can be used instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version.

- Panko breadcrumbs can be used instead of regular breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.

Make Ahead Tips

You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. This is a great make-ahead dish for busy weeknights.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the casserole with fresh parsley or chopped chives for a pop of color. Serve it in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Creamy Chicken Divan pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. A light beer or sparkling water with lemon also complements the dish.

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 Creamy Chicken Divan contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Creamy Chicken Divan contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Creamy Chicken Divan contains approximately 25 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Creamy Chicken Divan contains approximately 30 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Creamy Chicken Divan is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese), eggs (mayonnaise), and gluten (breadcrumbs). Please check for allergens before consuming.

Summary

Creamy Chicken Divan is a balanced meal that provides a good amount of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Creamy Chicken Divan is a comforting and delicious casserole dish that is perfect for a family dinner or gathering. With tender chicken, broccoli, and a creamy sauce topped with cheese and breadcrumbs, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl eager to learn the art of cooking from my own grandmother. She was a wonderful cook, always whipping up delicious meals with ease and grace. I remember spending hours in her kitchen, watching her chop, sauté, and simmer with skill and precision.

One day, as I was flipping through an old cookbook that had been passed down through the generations, I stumbled upon a recipe for Creamy Chicken Divan. The name alone sounded so elegant and sophisticated, I knew I had to give it a try. I eagerly showed the recipe to my grandmother, and her eyes lit up with recognition.

"Oh, I remember this recipe!" she exclaimed. "I learned how to make it from a dear friend of mine many years ago. It's a classic dish that never fails to impress."

With my grandmother's guidance, I set out to make the Creamy Chicken Divan for the first time. The ingredients were simple enough – chicken, broccoli, creamy sauce – but the method of preparation was a bit more involved. I carefully followed each step, from poaching the chicken to blanching the broccoli to making the velvety sauce.

As the dish baked in the oven, filling the kitchen with a tantalizing aroma, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. When the timer finally dinged, I pulled the Creamy Chicken Divan out of the oven and marveled at its golden-brown crust and bubbling sauce. It looked like something straight out of a gourmet magazine.

My grandmother and I sat down to enjoy the Creamy Chicken Divan together, and with the first bite, I knew I had discovered a new favorite recipe. The chicken was tender, the broccoli was perfectly cooked, and the sauce was rich and creamy with just the right amount of cheese. It was a dish that was both comforting and elegant, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night at home.

From that day on, Creamy Chicken Divan became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and quiet nights in with just my husband. Each time I served it, it never failed to receive rave reviews and requests for the recipe.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks and variations to the original recipe, adding my own personal touch with different seasonings, vegetables, and cheeses. But no matter how I make it, the Creamy Chicken Divan always brings back fond memories of my grandmother and the joy of discovering a new recipe that would become a beloved tradition in our family.

As I sit here now, reflecting on that first time I made Creamy Chicken Divan, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift of cooking that my grandmother passed down to me. It's a gift that has brought me so much joy and fulfillment over the years, and one that I will continue to cherish and share with my own loved ones for generations to come. And every time I make Creamy Chicken Divan, I will think of my grandmother and the special bond we shared over our love of food and family.