Description
A sophisticated and comforting classic, this Chicken Divan combines tender chicken breast and vibrant blanched broccoli in a luxurious, homemade cheese sauce. Built on a stable roux foundation to prevent sogginess, this hearty casserole is topped with a golden layer of melted cheese and crispy panko breadcrumbs. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed family gatherings, this dish offers a polished, professional finish with simple, high-quality ingredients.
Ingredients
2 lbs chicken breast, cooked and cubed
4 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup low sodium chicken stock
2 cups fresh grated cheddar cheese
3 tbsp unsalted butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for three minutes then shock in an ice bath to maintain color.
Sauté the butter and flour in a medium saucepan over medium heat for two minutes to create a light roux.
Whisk the chicken stock and heavy cream into the roux until the sauce thickens significantly.
Stir in one cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
Arrange broccoli in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Layer the cubed chicken over the broccoli.
Pour the thickened sauce evenly over the chicken and broccoli layers.
Top with the remaining cheese and panko breadcrumbs.
Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
Ensure you blanch the broccoli properly and shock it in an ice bath to keep it from becoming mushy during the bake. You can substitute the panko breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative if needed.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Recipes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 115mg