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Easy, Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole from Scratch

A close-up of a creamy slice of Chicken Divan casserole topped with melted cheddar and crunchy breadcrumbs.
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Make this classic Chicken Divan Casserole using a homemade creamy sauce instead of canned soup. This satisfying dish combines tender chicken and broccoli in a cheesy bake, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk, warmed
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
  2. Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 minutes until bright green and slightly tender-crisp. Drain immediately and set aside.
  3. Make the sauce: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Slowly whisk in the warm milk until the mixture thickens slightly. Stir in the chicken broth, Dijon mustard, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce coats the back of a spoon, about 3 to 5 minutes.
  5. Remove the sauce from the heat. Stir in 3/4 cup of the cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. This is your Mornay-style sauce.
  6. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, blanched broccoli, and the cheese sauce. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  8. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese and 1 tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the casserole.
  9. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve this hearty chicken bake with rice or crusty bread.

Notes

  • You can use leftover rotisserie chicken for quick preparation.
  • For a richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with the cheddar in the sauce.
  • If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a splash more milk or broth before baking.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delishcraze.com/chicken-divan-easy-creamy-casserole-recipe/