Some dishes have the magical power to transport us back in time. The aroma, the texture, and the very first bite can evoke vivid memories of family gatherings, holidays, and shared moments. Broccoli Chicken Divan is one such dish for me. My grandmother used to prepare it for family dinners, and the taste always brings back memories of those wonderful evenings spent at her home, laughing and sharing stories.
Recently, my neighbors invited us over for a potluck. I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to reintroduce this classic delight. The room filled with exclamations of nostalgia as my friends tasted the casserole. Many shared their own memories related to this dish, and just like that, we were all connected through a simple recipe and shared experiences.
How to Prepare Broccoli Chicken Divan
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Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh broccoli, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups chicken, cooked and diced
- 1 can (10 1/2 oz) broccoli cream soup
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1/2 cup Cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp bread crumbs, dry
- 1 tbsp melted butter
Directions:
- Begin by heating your oven to a hot 450°F (230°C). Take a pot, fill it with enough water to cover the broccoli, and set it to boil. Add your finely chopped broccoli into the boiling water, cooking it until it’s tender, which should be about 5 minutes. After it’s cooked, thoroughly drain the broccoli.
- Next, arrange the softened broccoli in the bottom of a 9-inch baking dish, creating an even layer. On top of the broccoli, evenly distribute the cooked and diced chicken.
- In a different bowl, whisk together the broccoli cream soup and milk until smooth. Carefully pour this creamy mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly distributed across the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the grated Cheddar cheese over the creamy layer, adding a cheesy touch to the dish. In a small bowl, mix together the dry bread crumbs with the melted butter, then scatter this crumbly mixture over the cheese, adding a bit of texture.
- Finally, place the dish in your preheated oven. Let it bake for about 15 minutes, or until you see the edges bubbling and the top has turned a beautiful golden-brown, indicating a perfectly crispy crust.
Frequent Asked Questions:
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh ?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be substituted for fresh in Broccoli Chicken Divan. Ensure it’s thawed and drained well to remove excess moisture before using. This swap can save time and make the recipe more convenient without compromising the dish’s quality or flavor.
What are some variations to the traditional Broccoli Chicken Divan recipe?
Variations can include adding different types of cheese, such as Parmesan or Swiss, incorporating other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers, or adjusting the topping with crushed crackers or potato chips for extra crunch. Some recipes also suggest adding spices or lemon juice for an enhanced flavor profile.
How can I make Broccoli Chicken Divan healthier?
To make Broccoli Chicken Divan healthier, consider using low-fat versions of the cream soup, milk, and cheese. You can also increase the broccoli quantity for more fiber and nutrients or use whole wheat breadcrumbs for the topping to add whole grains to the dish.
Is Broccoli Chicken Divan suitable for freezing and reheating?
Broccoli Chicken Divan is suitable for freezing either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole without baking and freeze. If freezing after baking, cool the casserole completely before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until hot throughout for best results.
What side dishes pair well with Broccoli Chicken Divan?
Light and simple side dishes pair well with Broccoli Chicken Divan, such as a crisp green salad, steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or garlic bread. These sides can complement the creamy and hearty nature of the casserole without overpowering its flavors.
How can I thicken the sauce in Broccoli Chicken Divan if it’s too runny?
If the sauce is too runny, you can thicken it by adding a small amount of a cornstarch and water mixture, cooking it until it reaches the desired consistency. Alternatively, using less milk or adding more cheese can also help thicken the sauce.
Can I make Broccoli Chicken Divan in a slow cooker?
While traditionally baked in the oven, Broccoli Chicken Divan can be adapted for a slow cooker. Layer the ingredients as you would for baking, and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the broccoli is tender. This method can be convenient for preparing the dish ahead of time.
What can I do if my Broccoli Chicken Divan turns out too dry?
If your dish turns out too dry, you can moisten it by adding a bit more milk or a splash of chicken broth over the top and then covering it with foil to trap moisture while reheating in the oven. This can help revive the dish and add back some needed moisture.
How can I add more flavor to Broccoli Chicken Divan?
To add more flavor to Broccoli Chicken Divan, consider incorporating garlic, onions, or shallots into the sauce, using seasoned breadcrumbs for the topping, or adding a dash of mustard or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a deeper flavor profile. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can also enhance the dish’s overall taste.
Where Did Chicken Divan Originate?
The name ‘Divan’ is traced back to the Divan Parisien Restaurant. It was here, during the early 20th century, that this beloved casserole was birthed.
What if I Don’t Have Cream of Broccoli Soup?
No worries! Cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup can be suitable alternatives. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
Broccoli Chicken Divan
Ingredients
- 1 pound chopped fresh broccoli
- 1 1/2 cups cubed cooked chicken meat
- 1 10 1/2 ounce can condensed cream of broccoli soup
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons dried bread crumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F.
- Place broccoli in a saucepan with enough water to cover. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain.
- Place the cooked broccoli in a 9 inch pie plate. Top with the chicken. In a bowl, mix the soup and milk, and pour over the chicken. Sprinkle with Cheddar cheese. Mix the melted butter with the bread crumbs, and sprinkle over the cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven until casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown, about 15 minutes.
