Best Classic Chicken Divan Casserole – Quick & Creamy!

Classic Chicken Divan Casserole, a true culinary icon, has long held a cherished spot at dinner tables across the nation. I am thrilled to share with you a recipe for this timeless dish that promises to become a family favorite.

Imagine tender pieces of succulent chicken and crisp-tender broccoli florets, all generously enrobed in a rich, creamy sauce, and crowned with a golden, bubbly layer of cheese. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that truly defines comfort food at its finest. This beloved casserole traces its origins back to the luxurious Divan Parisien Restaurant at the Chatham Hotel in New York City during the early 20th century. What began as a sophisticated restaurant offering quickly transitioned into a cherished homemade classic, beloved for its comforting qualities and ease of preparation.

People adore this dish not only for its incredible taste but also for its wonderful versatility and heartwarming appeal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying, yet equally impressive enough to grace your holiday table. The creamy, savory depth, combined with the subtle bite of the broccoli and the tender chicken, makes for an unforgettable meal every time. Crafting your own Classic Chicken Divan Casserole is a rewarding experience, guaranteeing smiles around your table.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
  • 3-4 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts or thighs (or a mix), about 6-8 pieces. I find using bone-in provides more flavor, but boneless works if you’re in a hurry.
  • 6-8 cups chicken broth or water for poaching, enough to cover the chicken.
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
  • 1/2 large onion, roughly chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, plus more for seasoning
• For the Broccoli:
  • 2 pounds fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces (about 6-8 cups). Frozen can work in a pinch, but fresh is truly best for texture.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for blanching)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (for blanching)
• For the Creamy Divan Sauce:
  • 2 (10.5 ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup. Don’t worry, we’re jazzing this up considerably!
  • 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (or another cream of chicken if you prefer, but mushroom adds a nice depth).
  • 1 cup mayonnaise, full-fat for the best richness.
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice. This is absolutely essential for brightening the rich sauce and cutting through the fattiness. Don’t skip it!
  • 2 teaspoons curry powder. This is the secret ingredient for authentic Classic Chicken Divan Casserole flavor. Adjust to your preference, but start here.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard. Just a touch adds another layer of complexity.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste
  • 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half, if needed to thin the sauce slightly.
• For the Topping and Assembly:
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided.
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or more sharp cheddar if Gruyère isn’t available). This melts beautifully and adds a nutty tang.
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs). Panko gives a fantastic crisp texture.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted.
  • Pinch of paprika (optional, for color on top).

Preparing the Chicken: The Heart of Your Classic Chicken Divan Casserole

The chicken is truly the star of our Classic Chicken Divan Casserole, so taking a little extra time here pays off immensely in flavor and texture. I prefer poaching chicken for this recipe as it results in incredibly tender and moist meat that shreds beautifully, perfectly absorbing all the delicious sauce. You can certainly use leftover rotisserie chicken or even bake boneless chicken breasts, but I find the poaching method provides superior results.

1. Poach the Chicken: Place the bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the chicken broth (or water), bay leaf, whole black peppercorns, chopped onion, and chopped celery. Make sure the chicken is fully submerged. If it’s not, add a little more liquid.
2. Season and Simmer: Add 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper to the pot. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chicken cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The timing will depend on the size of your chicken pieces.
3. Rest and Cool: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the pot and transfer it to a plate or cutting board to cool slightly. Resist the urge to shred it immediately! Allowing the chicken to rest for at least 10-15 minutes helps redistribute the juices, ensuring it stays wonderfully moist. Once cool enough to handle, discard the skin and bones. You can strain and reserve the poaching liquid for another use, like a quick soup base, as it will be full of flavor.
4. Shred the Chicken: Using two forks, or your hands (my preferred method once it’s cool enough), shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Aim for pieces that are roughly 1/2 to 1 inch in size – not too small that they disappear into the sauce, but not so large that they’re hard to eat. Set the shredded chicken aside.

Preparing the Broccoli: The Vibrant Green Complement

For a truly Classic Chicken Divan Casserole, perfectly cooked broccoli is non-negotiable. You want it tender-crisp, not mushy, with a vibrant green color. Fresh broccoli is always my first choice here, but if you’re using frozen, ensure you thaw and drain it very well before proceeding.

5. Prepare the Broccoli Florets: Wash the fresh broccoli thoroughly. Trim off the tough ends of the stalks and then cut the florets into uniform, bite-sized pieces. Uniformity helps ensure even cooking.
6. Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Adding about 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the water helps season the broccoli from within and also brightens its color. Carefully add the broccoli florets to the boiling water and cook for just 2-3 minutes. We’re aiming for tender-crisp – they’ll finish cooking in the oven, so don’t overcook them here. If you prefer, you can also steam the broccoli for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp.
7. Shock the Broccoli (Optional, but Recommended): Immediately drain the broccoli and, if you have an ice bath prepared, plunge it into the ice water for 1-2 minutes. This “shocks” the broccoli, stopping the cooking process and locking in that beautiful vibrant green color. If you don’t have an ice bath, simply drain it very well and spread it on a clean towel or paper towels to cool and dry slightly. Ensuring the broccoli is well-drained is crucial to prevent a watery casserole.
8. Dry the Broccoli: Pat the blanched broccoli dry with paper towels. Excess moisture is the enemy of a good casserole! Set aside.

Crafting the Creamy Divan Sauce: The Heart and Soul

This is where the magic truly happens for our Classic Chicken Divan Casserole. While we start with condensed soups, we’re transforming them into an incredibly flavorful, rich, and tangy sauce that elevates the entire dish. Don’t be afraid of the curry powder – it’s a signature flavor for this dish and adds a wonderful warmth without making it taste overly “curry-like.”

9. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the two cans of condensed cream of chicken soup and the cream of mushroom soup. Add the mayonnaise. While some might question mayonnaise in a casserole, it adds an unparalleled richness and creaminess that is truly delightful and traditional to many Divan recipes.
10. Introduce the Flavor Boosters: Now for the key flavor agents! Add the fresh lemon juice, curry powder, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to the bowl.
11. Whisk Until Smooth: Whisk everything together thoroughly until the sauce is completely smooth and all the ingredients are well incorporated. Make sure there are no lumps of mayonnaise or curry powder. Taste the sauce! This is your chance to adjust seasonings. Does it need a little more lemon juice for brightness? A pinch more salt? Perhaps a bit more curry powder if you like a bolder flavor?
12. Adjust Consistency (if needed): If the sauce seems too thick for your liking, you can whisk in a tablespoon or two of milk or half-and-half until it reaches a pourable, but still thick, consistency. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Assembling the Classic Chicken Divan Casserole: Layers of Deliciousness

Now that all our components are prepped, it’s time to bring them together into one glorious casserole. This is truly the fun part, watching it all come together before its final transformation in the oven.

13. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
14. Layer the Broccoli: Spread the blanched and well-drained broccoli florets evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. I like to make sure it’s a nice, even layer, as this will be the base for our chicken.
15. Add the Chicken: Evenly distribute the shredded chicken over the layer of broccoli. Try to get good coverage so every serving has a generous amount of chicken.
16. Pour on the Sauce: Spoon the creamy Divan sauce over the chicken and broccoli layers. Use a spatula to spread it gently and evenly, ensuring it coats all the chicken and seeps down into the broccoli. You want every bite to be enveloped in this amazing sauce.
17. First Cheese Layer: Sprinkle half of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and half of the Gruyère cheese evenly over the sauce. This layer will melt into the sauce, adding incredible richness and a lovely cheesy pull.
18. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Stir until the breadcrumbs are thoroughly coated. This buttered breadcrumb topping is what gives our casserole that irresistible golden, crunchy crust. If you like, you can add a tiny pinch of paprika to the breadcrumbs for a touch of color.
19. Final Topping: Sprinkle the remaining half of the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses over the casserole. Then, evenly scatter the buttered panko breadcrumbs over the cheese layer. This layering ensures both gooey cheese and crispy breadcrumbs in the topping.

Baking to Golden Perfection: The Grand Finale

The oven will transform our layers of deliciousness into a bubbling, golden-brown Classic Chicken Divan Casserole that fills your kitchen with an incredible aroma. Patience is key here to achieve the perfect texture and color.

20. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly around the edges and the topping is beautifully golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on the topping during the last 10 minutes; if it’s browning too quickly, you can loosely tent the casserole with aluminum foil.
21. Check for Doneness: The internal temperature should be piping hot, indicating all the ingredients are thoroughly heated through. You should see the sauce bubbling up through the breadcrumbs.

Resting and Serving: The Final Flourish

Just like with the chicken, a little rest after baking makes a big difference for casseroles. It allows the sauce to set slightly, making for cleaner serving and ensuring all those delicious flavors meld together even more beautifully.

22. Rest the Casserole: Once out of the oven, allow the Classic Chicken Divan Casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This step is important! It allows the sauce to thicken slightly and prevents it from being too runny when you spoon it out. It also makes for much easier and cleaner serving.
23. Serve Warm: Serve your magnificent Classic Chicken Divan Casserole warm, straight from the dish. It’s truly a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or some crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. Enjoy this comforting and incredibly flavorful dish that has graced so many family tables!

Conclusion:

Essentially, what we’ve just explored is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary hug, a dish that consistently delivers comfort, convenience, and an explosion of delightful flavors. This is precisely why the

Classic Chicken Divan Casserole

isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a definite must-try for anyone looking to add a truly exceptional, crowd-pleasing meal to their repertoire. It’s the kind of dish that makes busy weeknights feel like a special occasion, and potlucks an absolute triumph. The blend of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce, all crowned with a golden, bubbly topping, creates a symphony of textures and tastes that is undeniably satisfying. It’s a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create something truly magical. I truly believe that once you experience the ease of preparation coupled with the incredible taste, this recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite in your household, just as it has in mine.

Now, while this glorious casserole is absolutely divine on its own, a little accompaniment can elevate the dining experience even further. I often find that a crisp,

light green salad with a zesty vinaigrette

provides the perfect counterpoint to the richness of the Divan. The freshness cuts through the creaminess beautifully, offering a wonderful balance to each bite. Another fantastic option is some warm, crusty bread or garlic bread, perfect for soaking up every last bit of that delectable sauce – trust me, you won’t want to leave any behind! If you’re leaning towards a more substantial side, a simple rice pilaf or even some roasted baby potatoes would complement the flavors without overpowering them. Don’t forget, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives right before serving not only adds a pop of color but also a subtle herbaceous note that brightens the entire dish. Consider what you have on hand; this casserole is incredibly versatile and plays well with many simple sides.

What I absolutely adore about this recipe is its inherent flexibility. It’s a wonderful canvas for your culinary creativity, allowing for countless variations to suit different tastes, dietary needs, or simply whatever ingredients you happen to have in your pantry. For instance, if you’re not a fan of chicken or want to try something new,

consider swapping out the chicken for cooked turkey breast

– perfect for using up holiday leftovers! You could even experiment with ham or a vegetarian alternative like chickpeas or cannellini beans for a delightful plant-based twist, though the cooking time and liquid might need slight adjustments.

Broccoli is classic, but feel free to introduce other vegetables.

Asparagus, green beans, or even a mixed bag of frozen vegetables can be incorporated. Just ensure they are cooked to your desired tenderness before adding them to the casserole. To amp up the cheesy goodness, try a blend of cheeses beyond just cheddar; Gruyere, Swiss, or a sharp provolone can add a wonderful depth of flavor. For a lighter touch, you could use a low-fat cream of mushroom soup and milk, or even substitute some of the dairy with chicken broth for a less rich sauce, though it might alter the texture slightly. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes stirred into the sauce can give it a lovely kick. For those with gluten sensitivities, simply ensure your cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free, or make a homemade béchamel sauce with a gluten-free flour blend. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a dash of dry sherry or white wine in the sauce can elevate the overall sophistication of the dish, adding an unexpected layer of flavor that truly impresses. The beauty of this casserole lies in its adaptability; don’t be afraid to make it truly your own!

So, now that you’re armed with all the tips and tricks for success, there’s only one thing left to do:

Get into your kitchen and make this incredible Classic Chicken Divan Casserole!

I promise you, the aroma alone as it bakes will be enough to get your taste buds tingling. Don’t hesitate to personalize it, experiment with the variations I’ve suggested, or even invent your own unique twists.

I genuinely can’t wait to hear about your experience.

Please, once you’ve tried it, come back and share your thoughts in the comments below! Did you add a secret ingredient? What did your family think? Your feedback not only helps me, but it also inspires other home cooks in our community. Happy cooking, and enjoy every comforting, delicious bite!

Classic Chicken Divan Casserole

A classic comfort food, this Chicken Divan Casserole features tender chicken and crisp broccoli florets enrobed in a rich, creamy sauce, topped with bubbly cheese and a golden breadcrumb crust. Perfect for weeknights or holiday tables.

Prep Time
45 Minutes

Cook Time
5 Minutes

Total Time
5 Minutes

Servings
8 servings

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
• 3-4 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts/thighs
• 6-8 cups chicken broth or water
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp whole black peppercorns
• 1/2 large onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• For the Broccoli:
• 2 lbs fresh broccoli florets, bite-sized
• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• For the Creamy Divan Sauce:
• 2 (10.5 oz) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup full-fat mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 tsp curry powder
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half (optional)
• For the Topping and Assembly:
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• Pinch of paprika (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Place chicken, broth/water, bay leaf, peppercorns, onion, celery, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper in a large pot. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and cook 25-30 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F. Remove chicken, let rest 10-15 minutes, then discard skin/bones and shred into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
2. Step 2
   Wash and cut broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces. Blanch in a large pot of salted boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp. Immediately drain and optionally plunge into an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain very well and pat dry. Set aside.
3. Step 3
   In a large bowl, combine condensed cream of chicken and mushroom soups, mayonnaise, lemon juice, curry powder, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Whisk until completely smooth. If too thick, whisk in 1-2 tablespoons of milk/half-and-half. Taste and adjust seasonings.
4. Step 4
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread blanched broccoli evenly across the bottom. Top with shredded chicken. Pour the creamy Divan sauce evenly over the chicken and broccoli. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses over the sauce.
5. Step 5
   In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and an optional pinch of paprika. Stir to coat. Sprinkle remaining cheddar and Gruyère cheese over the casserole, then evenly scatter the buttered panko breadcrumbs on top.
6. Step 6
   Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown and crispy. If the topping browns too quickly, loosely tent with aluminum foil.
7. Step 7
   Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set. Serve warm and enjoy!

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.