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Easy Scratch-Made Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole

A generous slice of creamy Chicken Divan casserole featuring shredded chicken, broccoli florets, and a golden melted cheese topping.

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A simple recipe for classic Chicken Divan using a homemade creamy sauce instead of canned soup, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup slivered almonds (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 3 minutes. Drain them well and set aside.
  3. Make the cream sauce: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth until smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  5. Remove the sauce from the heat. Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
  6. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, blanched broccoli, and the cheese sauce. Mix gently until everything is coated.
  7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread the mayonnaise evenly over the top of the casserole.
  8. Sprinkle the slivered almonds over the mayonnaise layer, if using.
  9. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is lightly golden brown.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute frozen broccoli for fresh; do not thaw before blanching.
  • For a richer flavor, use rotisserie chicken for the cooked meat.
  • Prepare the casserole up to the baking step a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. Add 10 minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.

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