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Chicken Divan is a beloved dish that has been enjoyed for decades. It started in the 1930s at the Divan Parisian Restaurant in Manhattan. This dish combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce.
Its layered construction and delicious flavors make it a crowd-pleaser. Chicken Divan has become a staple in American cooking. It’s a comfort food that families love.
Key Takeaways
- Chicken Divan is a classic casserole dish featuring chicken, broccoli, and a creamy sauce.
- The dish originated at the Divan Parisian Restaurant in Manhattan in the 1930s.
- Chicken Divan is known for its layered construction and rich, comforting flavors.
- The recipe has evolved over time, but still remains a beloved family-friendly dish.
- Chicken Divan is a versatile dish that can be customized with different ingredients and toppings.
The History and Origins of Chicken Divan
The Chicken Divan dish has deep roots in New York City’s culinary history. It was born at the famous Divan Parisien Restaurant in the Chatham Hotel in the early 20th century. The exact year it was made is unclear, with some saying it was in the 1930s and others in the 1940s.
The Divan Parisien Restaurant Legacy
The Divan Parisien Restaurant was known for its French cuisine. Chef Anthony Lagasi created the Chicken Divan here. It quickly became a hit, earning Lagasi praise for his cooking skills.
Chef Anthony Lagasi’s Creation
Lagasi’s Chicken Divan had poached chicken, steamed broccoli, and a creamy sauce over rice. The name “Divan” meant a grand hall, adding to the dish’s elegance.
Evolution into a Home Kitchen Classic
In the 1950s, Chicken Divan became a favorite at home. It started showing up in cookbooks and at dinner parties. By the 1960s, it was a comforting dish, often served alone.
Today, Chicken Divan recipes have changed, with new ingredients like cream of chicken soup. But the core of the dish – chicken, broccoli, and creamy sauce – is still loved by many.
What Makes Chicken Divan Special
Chicken Divan is a beloved creamy casserole that has become a true comfort food and family favorite. It’s known for its tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and rich, cheesy sauce. This recipe is versatile, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Chicken Divan got its name from the Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York City. It was their signature dish in the early twentieth century. Recipes for it date back to the late 1950s and early 1960s. Today, it’s made with regular Parmesan cheese and is a classic American casserole.
The dish is great for busy households and family gatherings. You can make a quick version using pre-cooked chicken, mayonnaise, and canned soup. This makes Chicken Divan easy to adapt to different needs and tastes.
Chicken Divan is perfect for a nostalgic meal or a dish that pleases everyone. Its creamy texture and balanced flavors make it a beloved comfort food across generations.
Essential Ingredients for Classic Chicken Divan
Chicken Options and Preparation
The heart of Chicken Divan is the chicken. It uses boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about 2 pounds or 4 cups diced. The chicken is boiled for 30-35 minutes until it’s fully cooked. Then, it’s chopped or shredded for the casserole.
Broccoli Selection and Cooking
Broccoli florets are also crucial in Chicken Divan. A big head of broccoli, cut into florets, pairs well with the chicken. It’s steamed or boiled until tender before being added to the casserole.
Sauce Components
The creamy sauce is key to Chicken Divan. It’s made with cream of chicken soup for a rich base. Sour cream, mayonnaise, and lemon juice add tanginess and creaminess. Garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder enhance the flavor.
Lastly, cheddar cheese is sprinkled on top. It melts into the sauce, making a cheesy topping. Some recipes also add a Ritz cracker or breadcrumb topping for extra texture.
With chicken, broccoli, and a cheesy sauce, Chicken Divan is a comforting casserole.
Chicken Divan Recipe
Enjoy the comforting taste of a classic easy chicken casserole with our homemade Chicken Divan recipe. This creamy, cheesy dish is loved by families everywhere. It’s perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal.
The recipe’s success comes from its layers of broccoli and tender chicken. These are topped with a creamy sauce. The sauce is made from cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and cheddar cheese. It’s rich and full of flavor.
To add crunch, the casserole gets a topping of panko breadcrumbs and melted butter. This simple touch elevates the dish. It creates a perfect mix of flavors and textures.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 35 minutes | 6 servings | 636 calories per serving |
Culinary expert John Kanell created this recipe. He emphasizes the importance of seasoning the broccoli right. He also suggests using freshly grated cheddar cheese for better flavor.
The recipe is great just as it is, but you can also try some variations. You can swap broccoli for other veggies, use a rotisserie chicken, or add lemon juice or curry powder to the sauce. These changes can add extra flavor.
Looking for a comforting meal or something special for a family gathering? This homemade Chicken Divan recipe is perfect. Get ready to enjoy the rich, creamy taste of this classic dish!
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Making the classic Chicken Divan casserole is easy and fun. It results in a creamy, flavorful dish. Here’s how to cook, bake, and assemble it step by step.
Preparing the Chicken and Broccoli
First, heat your oven to 350°F. Then, cook the chicken however you like—roasting, grilling, or using a rotisserie chicken. Once it’s done, shred or dice it into small pieces.
For the broccoli, you can use fresh or frozen. If it’s fresh, steam it until it’s tender but still crisp. If it’s frozen, just follow the package to heat it up.
Creating the Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, mix together cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and curry powder. Stir until it’s smooth and flavorful.
Assembly and Baking Instructions
- Put the cooked broccoli at the bottom of a greased baking dish.
- Layer the shredded chicken on top of the broccoli.
- Spread the creamy sauce over the chicken and broccoli evenly.
- Then, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, or your favorite cheese.
- For a crispy topping, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven for about 30 minutes. The cheese should melt, and the casserole should be hot and bubbly.
By following these steps, you’ll make a delicious Chicken Divan casserole. It’s sure to delight your family and friends.
The Perfect Creamy Sauce Base
Chicken Divan is famous for its creamy sauce. It coats the chicken and broccoli perfectly. The sauce is made with cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, and cheese. This mix gives it a rich, indulgent taste.
For a fancy twist, some recipes use a homemade Mornay sauce instead.
To make the sauce even better, add some fresh lemon juice and a bit of curry powder. The sauce should stick to the chicken and broccoli well. It should not be too runny or thin.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cream of chicken soup | 2 cups |
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | 1/2 cup |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Curry powder | 1 teaspoon |
By mixing these ingredients, you can make a homemade sauce. It will take the classic Chicken Divan to a new level of creaminess and flavor.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Broccoli
Crisp-tender steamed broccoli is a great match for the creamy chicken divan casserole. To get this perfect texture, follow these easy tips:
- Start with fresh broccoli florets. Avoid overcooking, which can make it mushy and lose its color.
- Steam the broccoli for 8-10 minutes until it’s fork-tender but still bright green.
- You can also use thawed frozen broccoli, which works well in this dish.
- Don’t boil the broccoli, as it can lose nutrients and become too wet.
- Perfectly cooked steamed broccoli adds a nice crunch and fresh taste to the chicken divan.
The goal is to get the broccoli just right – crisp-tender, not mushy. This way, each bite of the chicken divan will be a perfect mix of textures and tastes.
“Properly cooked broccoli is the secret to an outstanding chicken divan. It adds the perfect amount of color, texture, and nutritional value to this classic casserole.”
Cheese Selection and Topping Options
The perfect Chicken Divan depends on the cheese and toppings. Sharp cheddar and Gruyère are traditional choices. They offer a rich, creamy taste. But, feel free to try other cheeses to find your favorite.
Best Cheese Varieties
Sharp cheddar is a classic pick. But, white cheddar, Parmesan, or mixing cheeses can add a twist. Choose cheeses that melt well for a creamy sauce.
Crispy Topping Alternatives
- Crushed Ritz crackers (about 14 crackers or 1/2 sleeve) mixed with melted butter make a crispy topping. It adds a nice crunch.
- Panko breadcrumbs are great for a crispy topping. They offer a light, airy texture that goes well with the creamy casserole.
- For extra crunch, mix breadcrumbs with crushed Ritz crackers as the topping.
| Cheese Variety | Flavor Profile | Melting Ability |
|---|---|---|
| Sharp cheddar | Tangy and bold | Excellent |
| White cheddar | Milder and creamier | Excellent |
| Gruyère | Nutty and semi-firm | Excellent |
| Parmesan | Salty and savory | Good |
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
Chicken Divan is great for busy days or meal prep. You can make it up to 2 days before baking. Just add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold.
Leftovers last up to 5 days in the fridge, perfect for meal prep and leftovers. Freezing it for up to 3 months works too, but the texture might change. For the best taste, enjoy it within 1-2 months.
| Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 5 days | Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (180°C) until hot and bubbly |
Preparing Chicken Divan ahead saves time and brings comfort. It’s a meal prep and freezer-friendly dish. This way, you always have a delicious, homemade meal ready.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
Chicken Divan is best served over steamed white or brown rice. This pairing is delightful, soaking up the creamy sauce. For a fuller meal, try it with mashed potatoes or fluffy quinoa.
Simple side dishes like applesauce, roasted red beets, or a fresh green salad add balance. They make the meal satisfying and complete.
Rice Pairings
Steamed white or brown rice is the perfect match for Chicken Divan. It offers a neutral base for the creamy sauce to highlight. The rice absorbs the flavors, making each bite harmonious.
Additional Side Options
- Mashed potatoes
- Quinoa
- Applesauce
- Roasted red beets
- Fresh green salad
| Side Dish | Preparation Time | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|
| Steamed White Rice | 15 minutes | 200 cal |
| Mashed Potatoes | 30 minutes | 237 cal |
| Quinoa | 20 minutes | 222 cal |
| Applesauce | 5 minutes | 100 cal |
| Roasted Red Beets | 45 minutes | 58 cal |
| Fresh Green Salad | 10 minutes | 25 cal |
These sides enhance the rich Chicken Divan, making the meal balanced and fulfilling.
Variations and Modern Adaptations
The classic Chicken Divan recipe has been loved for years. Creative cooks have made many tasty variations and modern twists. These changes cater to different tastes and dietary needs.
Using rotisserie chicken makes cooking quick and easy. It adds flavor and tenderness without a lot of work. Adding curry powder gives the dish a unique and aromatic spice blend.
For a healthier option, some use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. This makes the sauce creamier but lower in fat and calories. Others choose whole grain pasta or cauliflower instead of broccoli for a nutritious twist.
“The beauty of Chicken Divan is its ability to adapt to personal preferences and dietary needs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this timeless dish in a way that suits them best.”
Whether you want a fast meal or a healthier choice, Chicken Divan has many options. With a bit of creativity and experimentation, you can enjoy Chicken Divan in a way that fits your taste and lifestyle.
Common Cooking Mistakes to Avoid
Making a tasty Chicken Divan casserole needs careful attention. Steer clear of common mistakes to get a creamy, flavorful dish every time. Here are some tips to help you avoid these errors:
- Overcooked Broccoli: Watch the broccoli closely while pre-cooking. Don’t let it get too soft or mushy. This can mess up the dish’s texture.
- Undercooked Chicken: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before making the casserole. Raw chicken is not safe and can ruin the dish’s taste.
- Skipping Oven Preheating: Always preheat your oven for even cooking. Skipping this can cause the casserole to bake unevenly and lose its texture.
- Overly Runny Sauce: Be careful with the sauce’s liquid amount. Too much can make the casserole watery. Aim for a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Impatient Serving: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the layers set, making it look better when served.
Avoiding these mistakes will help you make a perfect casserole that everyone will love. Learning to troubleshoot in the kitchen is key to making a classic Chicken Divan that’s a hit.
Nutritional Information and Benefits
Chicken Divan is a comforting and creamy casserole. It delights the taste buds and is nutritious. It combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich, cheesy sauce. This mix provides essential nutrients.
Caloric Content
A typical serving of Chicken Divan has about 390-611 calories. The calories come from protein, healthy fats, and carbs. This makes it a balanced meal.
Protein and Nutrient Profile
Chicken Divan is packed with protein. Each serving has 34-49 grams of high-quality protein from chicken. It also has a lot of nutritional value thanks to broccoli and cheese.
Broccoli adds vitamins A and C, and cheese provides calcium. Chicken Divan is a balanced meal with protein, veggies, and dairy. But, watch your portion sizes and add more sides for a full meal.
“Chicken Divan is a comfort food classic that offers a delicious and nutritious meal option for the whole family.”
Time-Saving Tips and Shortcuts
Making a classic Chicken Divan casserole doesn’t have to take a lot of time. With a few smart kitchen tricks, you can make this creamy dish fast. Use pre-cooked chicken and simplify the sauce to enjoy a quick dinner without losing flavor.
Using a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken saves a lot of time. It means you don’t have to cook the chicken from scratch. Just shred or dice it and add it to the casserole.
Choosing frozen broccoli florets is another time-saver. Thaw and drain it before adding it to the casserole. This trick is great when fresh broccoli is hard to find.
- Use pre-cooked rotisserie or leftover chicken
- Opt for frozen, thawed and drained broccoli
- Prepare the sauce mixture ahead of time
- Combine uncooked diced chicken with other ingredients for a one-step baking process
Making the creamy sauce base ahead of time is also a good idea. Store it in the fridge until you’re ready to put the casserole together. This saves a lot of time in the kitchen.
Some recipes let you mix uncooked chicken with other ingredients and bake it all together. This skips the extra step of cooking the chicken separately, making things faster.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked Chicken | 2 cups |
| Broccoli Florets | 2 medium heads |
| Cream of Chicken Soup | 1 can |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Cheddar Cheese | 1 cup, shredded |
| Breadcrumbs | 1/2 cup |
By using these quick tips, you can have a delicious quick dinner with little effort. Chicken Divan becomes a great meal for busy weeknights that everyone will love.
Special Dietary Modifications
Chicken Divan is a tasty and comforting casserole. It can be changed to fit different diets. You can make it gluten-free, low-carb, or dairy-free with a few easy steps.
Gluten-Free Chicken Divan
For a gluten-free Chicken Divan, use gluten-free cream soup instead of the usual. You can also skip the crunchy topping or use gluten-free breadcrumbs. These changes keep the dish tasty and gluten-free.
Low-Carb Chicken Divan
To make a low-carb Chicken Divan, swap the rice or pasta for cauliflower rice. This cuts down carbs and adds a nice texture. Just remember to adjust cooking times and temperatures for the cauliflower rice.
Dairy-Free Chicken Divan
For a dairy-free version, replace cheese and cream with dairy-free cheese alternatives and plant-based cream soup. These changes keep the dish creamy and comforting, fitting your diet.
Chicken Divan can be made to fit any dietary need. With a few ingredient swaps, you can enjoy this classic dish without giving up on your health or lifestyle.
| Dietary Modification | Ingredients to Use | Cooking Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten-Free |
|
Adjust cooking time and temperature as needed |
| Low-Carb |
|
Adjust cooking time and temperature as needed |
| Dairy-Free |
|
Adjust cooking time and temperature as needed |
“With a few simple ingredient swaps, you can enjoy this classic casserole without compromising your health or lifestyle.”
Conclusion
Chicken Divan is a classic comfort food and a family favorite. It combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. Its versatile nature makes it popular among many.
This dish offers a satisfying meal that brings warmth and nostalgia. Its appeal started in the 1930s at the Divan Parisien restaurant in New York City. It has become a beloved comfort food staple.
Chicken Divan is versatile, delicious, and easy to make. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, and special occasions. You can make it ahead and enjoy it later, making it a comforting and nourishing choice.
FAQ
What is Chicken Divan?
Chicken Divan is a classic casserole. It has tender chicken, broccoli, and a creamy sauce. It was first made at the Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York City’s Chatham Hotel.
Who created Chicken Divan?
Chef Anthony Lagasi made Chicken Divan at the Divan Parisien Restaurant. He won an award for it. It became famous in the early 20th century.
What are the key ingredients in Chicken Divan?
Chicken Divan needs boneless chicken breasts, broccoli, and a creamy sauce. The sauce includes cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, and cheddar cheese. It also has garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder.
How do you make Chicken Divan?
First, cook the chicken and steam the broccoli. Then, mix the sauce with cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and cheese. Layer the broccoli and chicken in a dish, then pour the sauce over it.
Finally, bake until it’s hot and bubbly.
What type of cheese is best for Chicken Divan?
Sharp cheddar cheese is the best for Chicken Divan. You can also use white cheddar or a mix of cheeses.
Can Chicken Divan be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Chicken Divan up to 2 days in advance. Refrigerate it before baking. If baking from cold, add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
What are some serving suggestions for Chicken Divan?
Serve Chicken Divan over steamed rice. You can also try it with mashed potatoes, quinoa, or crusty bread. It goes well with simple sides like applesauce, red beets, or a green salad.
What are some common variations of Chicken Divan?
You can use rotisserie chicken for ease. Add curry powder for flavor. Try different veggies like cauliflower. For a healthier version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and add whole grain pasta.
What are some tips for avoiding common cooking mistakes with Chicken Divan?
Don’t overcook the broccoli. Make sure the chicken is cooked before assembling. Preheat the oven for even cooking. Use the right amount of sauce to avoid a runny casserole. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
What are the nutritional benefits of Chicken Divan?
Chicken Divan is nutritious. It has protein, vitamins A and C, and calcium. It’s high in calories and fat but can be part of a healthy meal with whole grains and veggies.
