Easy Chicken Divan

Easy Chicken Divan Recipe: A Flavorful American Classic

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour and 10 minutes | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Chicken Divan is a classic casserole dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and crisp vegetables, all topped with a cheesy breadcrumb topping. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering.

History

Chicken Divan was created in the early 20th century at the Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York City. It was named after the restaurant and quickly became a popular dish in American households. The original recipe called for chicken, broccoli, and a creamy sauce, all baked together in a casserole dish.

Ingredients

1 large chicken
2 cups brown rice
4 to 5 cups water
0.5 cup wheat berries with 1.25 cups water (or 0.5 cup bulgur with 1.5 cups water or 0.5 cup wild rice with 1 cup water)
broccoli, carrots, string beans, snow peas (or any other vegetables)
0.5 cup bread crumbs
1 tbsp butter
0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Sauce

1 cup mayonnaise
1 tsp curry powder
1 tbsp lemon juice (fresh is nicer)
2 cans cream of chicken soup

How to prepare

In a pressure cooker, cook the chicken, brown rice, water, and wheat berries (or bulgur or wild rice) under pressure for 45 minutes.
Steam the broccoli, carrots, string beans, and snow peas (or any other vegetables).
Combine bread crumbs, butter, and shredded cheddar cheese. Layer the cooked food in a large casserole dish as follows: rice, vegetables, boned chicken, sauce, and cheese and crumb topping.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 25 minutes or until the topping is brown.

Variations

Substitute broccoli with cauliflower or asparagus.
Use different types of cheese for the topping, such as Parmesan or mozzarella.
Add cooked pasta or quinoa to make the dish more filling.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To save time, use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken.

- Feel free to customize the vegetables in this dish based on your preferences.

- For a healthier version, use low-fat mayonnaise and cream of chicken soup.

- Make sure to let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Easy Chicken Divan with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Pressure cook the chicken and rice for a quick and easy meal.

- Steam the vegetables to retain their nutrients and vibrant colors.

- Bake the casserole until the topping is golden brown and bubbly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter sauce.

- Replace cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or celery soup.

- Swap cheddar cheese with Swiss or Gruyere cheese for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Easy Chicken Divan can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply cover the casserole dish with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Easy Chicken Divan with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color. Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Easy Chicken Divan with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, serve with sparkling water or iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Easy Chicken Divan can be stored 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 Easy Chicken Divan contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Easy Chicken Divan contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Easy Chicken Divan contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Easy Chicken Divan contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Easy Chicken Divan is a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and Calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and butter) and wheat (breadcrumbs).

Summary

Easy Chicken Divan is a balanced meal that provides carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Easy Chicken Divan is a comforting and delicious casserole dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crisp vegetables, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Easy Chicken Divan. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret for lunch. Margaret was known for her delicious homemade meals, and I always looked forward to trying her new creations.

As we sat down at her cozy kitchen table, she brought out a steaming casserole dish filled with creamy chicken and broccoli. The aroma alone was enough to make my mouth water. I took one bite and instantly fell in love with the rich flavors and comforting textures of the dish.

"Margaret, this is absolutely amazing! How did you come up with this recipe?" I asked, eager to learn the secret behind her culinary masterpiece.

Margaret smiled warmly and began to tell me the story of how she learned to make Easy Chicken Divan. She explained that years ago, she had attended a cooking class at her local community center. The instructor, an elderly woman with decades of cooking experience, had shared this recipe with the class as a simple yet delicious dish that was perfect for a family dinner.

I was intrigued by the story and asked Margaret if she could teach me how to make it. She graciously agreed and invited me to come over for a cooking lesson the following week. I couldn't wait to learn the recipe and add it to my own collection of culinary treasures.

When the day of our cooking lesson arrived, Margaret greeted me with a warm hug and a big smile. We gathered all the ingredients we needed – chicken breasts, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice, cheddar cheese, and breadcrumbs – and got to work in her bright and airy kitchen.

Margaret guided me through each step of the recipe, from cooking the chicken and steaming the broccoli to mixing the creamy sauce and assembling the casserole. She shared valuable tips and tricks along the way, such as how to season the chicken just right and how to ensure the sauce was perfectly smooth and velvety.

As we popped the casserole into the oven to bake, Margaret regaled me with stories of her own culinary adventures. She told me about the time she traveled to France and learned how to make the perfect coq au vin from a local chef, and the time she hosted a dinner party for her friends and made a mouthwatering beef bourguignon that was the talk of the town.

I listened intently, soaking up every word and absorbing all the wisdom Margaret had to offer. By the time the timer dinged and we pulled the Chicken Divan out of the oven, I felt like I had gained a wealth of knowledge and a new appreciation for the art of cooking.

We sat down at the kitchen table and dug into the piping hot casserole, savoring each bite and relishing in the flavors that danced on our taste buds. Margaret beamed with pride as I complemented her on her culinary skills and thanked her for sharing this wonderful recipe with me.

From that day on, Easy Chicken Divan became a staple in my own kitchen. I would make it for family dinners, potlucks with friends, and even the occasional weeknight meal when I needed something quick and satisfying. Every time I prepared it, I thought of Margaret and the special bond we shared over our love of cooking and good food.

Now, as I pass this recipe on to you, my dear grandchild, I hope you will enjoy making Easy Chicken Divan as much as I have. Remember to savor each bite, cherish the memories you create in the kitchen, and always keep the spirit of sharing and learning alive in your heart.

With love and a sprinkle of culinary magic,

Your Grandma