Comfort Food
Chicken Divan
Chicken divan is a retro casserole classic — tender chicken and broccoli under a rich, sherry-tinged cheese sauce, baked until bubbly and golden on top. It's exactly the kind of nostalgic, crowd-pleasing dinner that deserves to stay in rotation.
Why you'll love this recipe
- Classic, nostalgic casserole flavor
- Creamy cheese sauce with a hint of sherry
- Great way to use leftover cooked chicken
- Freezes well for future dinners
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Arrange the blanched broccoli and diced chicken evenly in the baking dish.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and cream, stirring until smooth, and cook until thickened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in 3/4 cup cheddar, the parmesan, sherry if using, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken and broccoli.
- Mix the panko with the melted butter and remaining cheddar, then sprinkle over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
How to tell it's done
Bake until the sauce bubbles around the edges and the panko-cheese topping is crisp and golden. Because the chicken and broccoli are already cooked, you only need the center to reach 165°F. A knife inserted in the middle should come out hot.
Tips for success
- Blanching the broccoli for 2-3 minutes before assembling keeps it from turning mushy or watery during baking.
- The sherry is optional but adds a classic, subtle depth to the sauce that's worth including if you have it.
- This is an excellent way to use leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken.
- Assemble ahead and refrigerate unbaked for up to a day, then bake fresh when ready.
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Sherry: dry sherry is the classic addition. Dry white wine or 1 tsp lemon juice can stand in. Avoid sweet cooking sherry, which is salty.
- Curry powder: many family versions add 1/2-1 tsp curry powder to the sauce for warmth. It's a traditional variation.
- Broccoli: fresh broccoli, blanched for 2 minutes, stays brightest. If you use frozen florets, thaw them and pat them dry so the sauce doesn't thin out.
- Lighter sauce: you can swap the heavy cream for whole milk, but the sauce will be a little less rich.
Storage & reheating
Refrigerate, covered, for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole dish covered at 350°F for 20 minutes, uncovering for the last 5 to crisp the topping.
Make ahead & freezing
Assemble up to 24 hours ahead, without the panko topping, and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking and bake for an extra 10 minutes. It freezes well unbaked for up to 3 months, again without the topping. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
What to serve with it
Serve over white or wild rice or buttered egg noodles to soak up the sauce, with a green salad or dinner rolls.
Frequently asked questions
What is chicken divan traditionally made with?
Classic chicken divan features chicken and broccoli in a creamy sauce, often flavored with sherry and topped with cheese and breadcrumbs.
Can I make this dish without sherry?
Yes, simply omit it; the dish is still flavorful without it, though sherry adds a classic depth.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, thaw and drain it well first to avoid excess water in the casserole.
Can I freeze chicken divan?
Yes, it freezes well either before or after baking; thaw in the fridge overnight before baking or reheating.
Nutrition (per serving)
| Calories | 446 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbs | 16g |
| Fat | 29g |
| Sodium | 720mg |
| Sugar | 3g |
Nutrition values are estimates calculated from the ingredient list and will vary with the exact brands and portion sizes you use.
More in: Chicken Comfort Food Chicken Pasta & Casseroles
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