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Classic Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole (Using Rotisserie Chicken)

A close-up serving of creamy Chicken Divan casserole featuring chicken, broccoli, and a golden, crunchy crumb topping.
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This is the comforting Chicken Divan recipe you remember, made simple for a weeknight dinner. You get tender chicken, broccoli, and a rich, cheesy cream sauce baked into one easy dish.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (use rotisserie chicken for speed)
  • 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, plus 1/2 cup for topping
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon curry powder (optional, for depth)
  • 1 cup cooked white rice (optional, for serving under the casserole)
  • 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Blanch the broccoli: Place the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain well.
  3. Make the sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. 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 to cook, stirring often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  5. Remove the sauce from the heat. Stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and curry powder (if using) until the cheese melts completely into a smooth sauce.
  6. Assemble the casserole: In a large bowl, gently combine the shredded chicken, blanched broccoli, and the cream sauce. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
  7. Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish. If you are serving over rice, spread the cooked rice in the bottom of the dish first, then top with the chicken mixture.
  8. Top the casserole evenly with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs.
  9. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this family friendly meal.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream.
  • You can prepare this entire casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it up to 24 hours before baking. Add 10 minutes to the bake time if cooking straight from the refrigerator.

Nutrition

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