Print

The Ultimate Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole (Easy Weeknight Comfort Food)

A close-up serving of creamy Chicken Divan casserole featuring melted cheddar cheese, broccoli florets, and a golden breadcrumb topping.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this classic Chicken Divan Casserole for a comforting, cheesy dinner. This recipe combines tender chicken and broccoli in a rich, creamy sauce, perfect for a family-friendly weeknight meal.

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 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon curry powder (optional, for flavor depth)
  • 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or 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 3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender-crisp. Drain them well and set aside.
  3. Prepare the creamy sauce: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. 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 cooking, stirring often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and curry powder if you are using it.
  6. In a large bowl, gently combine the shredded chicken, blanched broccoli, and the cheese sauce. Mix until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  7. Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish.
  8. Sprinkle the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.
  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 Cheesy Chicken Bake rest for 5 minutes before you serve it.

Notes

  • For an extra rich flavor, you can substitute half of the milk with heavy cream.
  • If you prefer a less sharp flavor, use mild cheddar cheese instead of sharp cheddar.
  • This dish pairs well served over fluffy white rice or alongside a simple green salad.

Nutrition

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