Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole with Cheddar Cheese

Discover a creamy and cheesy Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole with Cheddar Cheese recipe that’s quick, tasty, and perfect for weeknights. This comforting casserole blends tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese into a luscious sauce that’s baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re craving a hearty family dinner or an easy meal prep option, this Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole with Cheddar Cheese combines flavor, nutrition, and ease in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food Classic: It brings together familiar flavors that everyone loves in one warm, cheesy dish.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, it’s a perfect choice for busy weeknights when time is limited.
• Balanced and Nutritious: Packed with protein from chicken and vitamins from broccoli, it’s a wholesome meal.
• Family Friendly: It’s a hit with both kids and adults, making dinner time less stressful.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: It holds up well for leftovers or can be assembled in advance.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keeping this recipe simple yet delicious relies on using fresh, quality ingredients that bring out the best textures and flavors. Each component plays a key role from creamy sauce to melty cheddar topping.

• Chicken Breast: Cooked and diced, it adds lean protein and a tender bite.
• Broccoli Florets: Fresh or frozen, broccoli offers crunch and vibrant color.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp or mild, shredded cheddar provides rich, melty goodness.
• Mayonnaise or Sour Cream: These ingredients create a creamy base for the casserole sauce.
• Lemon Juice: A splash brightens the flavors, balancing the richness.
• Onion and Garlic Powder: These spices enhance depth without overwhelming the dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkled on top for extra flavor and a crispy crust.
• Bread Crumbs or Ritz Crackers: Used for a crunchy topping that adds delightful texture.
• Butter: Melted to mix with bread crumbs, helping them brown beautifully.

Variations for Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole with Cheddar Cheese

Feel free to make this Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole with Cheddar Cheese your own by tweaking ingredients or swapping things around based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences.

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with extra broccoli or cauliflower for a veggie-packed meal.
• Different Cheeses: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere for new flavor profiles.
• Healthy Swaps: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo or sour cream for lighter creaminess.
• Gluten-Free Topping: Replace bread crumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or nuts.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

How to Make Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole with Cheddar Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli

Start by cooking your chicken breasts until fully done; poaching or baking works well. While the chicken cools, steam the broccoli florets just until tender-crisp, preserving their bright green hue and slight crunch.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise or sour cream with lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture forms the flavorful base that keeps the casserole moist and creamy.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the chopped chicken, steamed broccoli, and shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce mixture. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the creamy sauce but avoid breaking the broccoli down.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top, then mix bread crumbs or crushed crackers with melted butter and sprinkle on top for a golden crunchy finish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes or until bubbly and the topping is crisp and golden brown.

Pro Tips for Making Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole with Cheddar Cheese

• Chicken Prep: Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor.
• Broccoli Texture: Avoid overcooking the broccoli to keep its vibrant color and crunch.
• Cheese Choice: Sharp cheddar enhances depth, but mixing cheeses can create more complex flavors.
• Sauce Consistency: If too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce slightly.
• Crunchy Topping: Butter the bread crumbs well before baking for even browning.

How to Serve Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole with Cheddar Cheese

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top after baking to add a pop of green and fresh herbaceous notes that complement the cheesy casserole beautifully.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs perfectly with light leafy salads, garlic bread, or a smooth mashed potato to round out the meal without overpowering the main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for elegant plating, or layer it in a clear glass casserole dish to show off the beautiful broccoli and cheese layers before baking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture and avoid drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole before baking in a freezer-safe dish, covering tightly with foil. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through for best results; microwaving works too but can cause uneven temperature and texture.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in the Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole with Cheddar Cheese?

Absolutely, mixing in Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even Gruyere can create tasty variations while maintaining the creamy, cheesy character.

Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s perfect for making ahead. Prepare the casserole in advance and bake when you’re ready, or enjoy leftovers for a quick lunch or dinner.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free options or crushed nuts to keep the crunchy topping without gluten.

How do I keep broccoli from getting mushy in the casserole?

Steam broccoli just until tender-crisp before adding it to the casserole, then bake only until heated through to avoid overcooking.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise and sour cream in this recipe?

You can try Greek yogurt or a bechamel sauce for a different creamy texture and flavor while keeping it moist and rich.

Final Thoughts

Give this Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole with Cheddar Cheese a try and enjoy a dish that effortlessly combines comfort, nutrition, and ease. It’s a delicious way to bring the family together around the dinner table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor!

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