Description
Comforting broccoli chicken divan brings classic casserole magic straight from home kitchens to dinner tables. Cheesy, creamy layers of tender chicken and fresh broccoli create a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked chicken, cubed
Protein and Dairy:
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Seasoning and Binding Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
Instructions
- Orchestrate the culinary environment by heating the oven to a precise 350°F (175°C), creating an optimal cooking atmosphere.
- Prepare a 9×13-inch baking vessel with a delicate layer of grease to prevent adherence.
- Construct a foundational layer by meticulously distributing tender chicken cubes and verdant broccoli florets across the dish’s surface.
- Initiate the sauce creation by melting butter in a saucepan, transforming it into a velvety roux through careful flour integration and continuous whisking.
- Gradually introduce chicken broth and milk, stirring consistently to achieve a luxurious, smooth consistency that thickens elegantly.
- Enhance the sauce’s flavor profile by incorporating salt, pepper, and cheddar cheese, stirring until a seamless, creamy texture emerges.
- Cascade the rich cheese sauce over the chicken and broccoli, ensuring complete and uniform coverage of all ingredients.
- Sprinkle a crisp blanket of bread crumbs across the surface, creating a golden, textural crown.
- Transfer the assembled dish to the preheated oven, allowing it to transform for 25 minutes until the sauce bubbles enthusiastically and the topping achieves a beautiful golden-brown hue.
- Remove from the oven and permit a brief resting period, allowing flavors to settle and intensify before serving.
Notes
- Opt for fresh broccoli florets to ensure crisp texture and vibrant green color, avoiding soggy or overcooked vegetables.
- Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for leaner protein and easier cutting, trimming any excess fat before cubing.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties like Gruyère or sharp white cheddar to add unique depth and complexity to the sauce.
- Consider gluten-free alternatives by using cornstarch instead of flour and gluten-free bread crumbs for a celiac-friendly version of the dish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg