Chicken Divan casserole

Easy Chicken Divan Casserole is a comforting, creamy dinner made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, a rich cheesy sauce, and a crispy golden topping. This classic family-favorite casserole is simple to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying homemade meal.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Servings: 6

Course: dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 420

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

– 3 cups cooked chicken breast shredded or cubed
– 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
– 1 can 10.5 oz condensed cream of chicken soup
– ½ cup sour cream
– ½ cup mayonnaise
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– ½ cup milk
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon onion powder
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Topping:

– ½ cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Method

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9 × 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Steam or boil for approximately 3–4 minutes until slightly tender but still bright green. Drain thoroughly.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the cooked chicken evenly in the prepared baking dish. Add the broccoli florets on top. Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and broccoli, spreading it evenly.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole.

Step 6: Prepare the Crispy Topping

In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly, golden brown, and heated through. If using freshly cooked chicken, ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm while the cheese is melted and the topping is crispy.

Notes

Tips for the Best Chicken Divan Casserole

Use rotisserie chicken: Save preparation time with ready-cooked chicken.
Avoid overcooking broccoli: Keep it slightly crisp before baking.
Drain vegetables well: Excess moisture can make the casserole watery.
Make it extra cheesy: Add a little more cheddar for a richer flavor.
Get a crispy topping: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.

Easy chicken divan casserole for dinner