There’s something inherently heartwarming about a dish that combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce all baked to perfection. Broccoli Chicken Divan is a time-honored recipe that’s been gracing tables for generations, often evoking fond memories of family dinners and gatherings. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, blending simple ingredients into a meal that’s both nutritious and indulgent.
I remember the first time I tried Broccoli Chicken Divan. It was at a potluck dinner hosted by a family friend who had a knack for creating classic dishes with a special touch. The combination of creamy cheese sauce and tender chicken, paired with the freshness of broccoli, was a revelation. It was so delicious that it quickly became a staple in my own cooking repertoire. This recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a practical choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and is always met with enthusiastic approval.
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 cups cooked chicken, cubed
2 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup milk
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup bread crumbs
Simple Steps to a Heartwarming Meal
1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your dish will cook evenly and come out bubbly and golden.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. This will also make cleanup easier later.
3. Layer the Chicken and Broccoli
Arrange the cubed chicken and broccoli florets in the prepared baking dish. It’s helpful to spread them out in an even layer so that each bite gets a bit of both ingredients.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute. This creates a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
Gradually add 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of milk to the roux, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens and becomes smooth. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of pepper, and ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
5. Assemble the Dish
Pour the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the chicken and broccoli in the baking dish. Make sure to cover all the ingredients with the sauce to ensure even flavor and texture.
6. Add the Crunchy Topping
Sprinkle ½ cup of bread crumbs evenly over the top of the dish. This will add a nice crunchy texture and a golden-brown finish once baked.
7. Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. The dish is ready when the sauce is bubbly and the bread crumbs have turned a beautiful golden brown.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Let the Broccoli Chicken Divan cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to portion out. Serve warm and enjoy a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with extra firm tofu or a mix of other vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian.
Cheese Variations: If cheddar isn’t your favorite, feel free to use other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your choice. Just make sure it melts well.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to make the sauce gluten-free. Use gluten-free bread crumbs or omit the topping if necessary.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a bit of extra flavor.
Additional Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables such as sliced bell peppers, carrots, or peas for added nutrition and variety.
Conclusion
Broccoli Chicken Divan is a timeless dish that combines simplicity with indulgence. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together around the table, evoking warmth and contentment with every bite. The creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and crisp broccoli create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that are both comforting and delicious.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, special family dinners, or even holiday gatherings. Its ease of preparation and delightful taste make it a reliable choice for any occasion. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences and ingredient substitutions.
Whether you’re making it for a crowd or just for a cozy meal at home, Broccoli Chicken Divan is sure to be a hit. It’s a dish that not only fills the belly but also warms the heart, making it a cherished recipe in any home. Enjoy the process of making this classic comfort food, and savor the joy it brings to your table.