Hey there! So, there’s this dish I absolutely adore making called Broccoli Chicken Divan. It’s one of those meals that reminds me of Sunday dinners at my grandparents’ house. (You know, the kind where everyone gathers around the table, and the house smells amazing?) My grandma used to whip this up, and I swear her version was like a warm hug – cheesy, creamy, and just a bit indulgent. I remember sneaking bites while she wasn’t looking, feeling like I’d discovered a hidden treasure!
Why You’ll Love This
I make this when I want something comforting yet not too fussy. My family goes crazy for it because it’s got everything – chicken, broccoli, cheese (oh, how I love cheese), and a crunchy topping that makes you want to go back for seconds. It’s like the ultimate cozy meal; and honestly, it’s pretty forgiving, so you don’t have to stress if you mess up a bit. I once forgot to pre-cook the broccoli—oops—but it still turned out wonderfully!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (leftovers work great!)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (I sometimes swap this for asparagus when I’m in a pinch)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (or make your own if you’re feeling fancy)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (I’ve tried using Greek yogurt for a lighter touch)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or more, if you’re like me and can’t resist)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon curry powder (optional, but it adds a nice kick)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. (This is your chance to warm up the kitchen!)
- In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer the chicken and broccoli. (Don’t worry if it looks like a mess; it’ll come together, I promise.)
- In a bowl, mix the soup, mayo, cheese, lemon juice, and curry powder. Pour this over the chicken and broccoli. This is where I usually sneak a taste – for quality control, of course.
- Combine the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top. Make sure you cover it all evenly for that satisfying crunch.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown. (This is the hard part – waiting while your kitchen fills with heavenly smells!)
Notes
Honestly, I’ve found that letting it sit for a few minutes before serving makes it easier to slice. Plus, it gives you a moment to grab a glass of wine (or two).
Variations
I’ve experimented with swapping in turkey instead of chicken after Thanksgiving. On second thought, cauliflower didn’t work out so well—it just didn’t hold up. But hey, you live and learn!
Equipment
No fancy tools needed! If you don’t have a 9×13 inch dish, just split it into two smaller ones. More dishes to wash, but same taste in the end.
Storage Information
You can pop leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, though honestly, in my house it never lasts more than a day! Reheat it in the oven for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
We usually serve this with a simple side salad or some crusty bread (to soak up all that cheesy goodness). My cousin even loves it with a dash of hot sauce!
Pro Tips
Don’t rush the baking step; I once tried rushing it and regretted it because the cheese didn’t get that perfect golden crust. Patience, my friend!
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli? Absolutely. Just thaw it first and pat it dry to avoid extra liquid.
Is it okay to skip the curry powder? Sure thing! It’s not essential, but it adds a unique flavor that I personally love.