Broccoli chicken divan is a 50-minute baked casserole made with cooked chicken, lightly steamed broccoli, a yogurt-and-cream-of-chicken sauce, cheddar, Parmesan, and an optional crumb topping. Because the chicken is already cooked, the oven step is primarily for heating the center and browning the top.
Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole
Ingredients
- 500 g cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 3 cups broccoli florets, lightly steamed
- 1 cup Greek yogurt or light sour cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 can (300 ml) cream of chicken soup
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional topping:
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Add chicken and broccoli to a greased baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix yogurt, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour sauce over chicken and broccoli and stir gently.
- Sprinkle cheddar and parmesan evenly on top.
- Add breadcrumbs if using.
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Recipe Notes
- • Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- • Swap Greek yogurt with sour cream if preferred.
- • Serve with rice or a simple side salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size
- 1 plate
- Calories
- 420
- Sugar
- 4g
- Sodium
- 720mg
- Fat
- 22g
- Saturated Fat
- 9g
- Unsaturated Fat
- 11g
- Trans Fat
- 0g
- Carbohydrates
- 14g
- Fiber
- 3g
- Protein
- 40g
- Cholesterol
- 115mg
Why you'll love this
- Lightly steaming the broccoli gives it a head start without making it so soft that it collapses during the 30- to 35-minute bake.
- Mixing yogurt with condensed soup creates a spreadable sauce while cheddar and Parmesan provide a distinct top layer.
Tips for the best result
- Drain steamed broccoli well before it enters the dish; trapped water is a common reason a creamy casserole loosens.
- Spread the chicken and broccoli evenly so the sauce can coat rather than pool between large clumps.
- Rest the bubbling casserole for 5 minutes before serving.
Troubleshooting
The casserole is watery
Excess moisture likely came from the broccoli or wet chicken. Drain both well and avoid steaming the broccoli beyond lightly tender.
The topping is pale
Confirm the center is hot first, then give the uncovered top a few additional minutes. Do not extend baking so long that the cooked chicken dries out.
Sauce appears curdled.
it likely overheated or the dairy was added too quickly. Next time, remove the pan from heat before incorporating dairy products and return to gentle heat.
Refrigerate covered within 2 hours and use within 3 to 4 days. Reheat covered until hot, uncovering near the end if you want the crumb topping less soft.
Rice is a practical side because it catches the creamy sauce; a salad keeps the plate lighter.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble up to 24 hours ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking directly from the refrigerator.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
Make a homemade white sauce with 2 tablespoons butter, 2 tablespoons flour, and 1 cup chicken broth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Freeze unbaked or baked for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or reheating until piping hot.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, use frozen broccoli florets without thawing. Adjust cooking time slightly as frozen broccoli releases more moisture during baking.
How do I know when my Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole is done?
It’s done when the center reaches 165°F, the sauce bubbles around the edges, and the cheese topping turns golden brown.
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