Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe

There’s something inherently heartwarming about a dish that combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce all baked to perfection. Broccoli Chicken Divan is a time-honored recipe that’s been gracing tables for generations, often evoking fond memories of family dinners and gatherings. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, blending simple ingredients into a meal that’s both nutritious and indulgent.

I remember the first time I tried Broccoli Chicken Divan. It was at a potluck dinner hosted by a family friend who had a knack for creating classic dishes with a special touch. The combination of creamy cheese sauce and tender chicken, paired with the freshness of broccoli, was a revelation. It was so delicious that it quickly became a staple in my own cooking repertoire. This recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a practical choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and is always met with enthusiastic approval.
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 cups cooked chicken, cubed

2 cups broccoli florets

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup milk

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon pepper

½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup bread crumbs
Simple Steps to a Heartwarming Meal
1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your dish will cook evenly and come out bubbly and golden.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. This will also make cleanup easier later.
3. Layer the Chicken and Broccoli
Arrange the cubed chicken and broccoli florets in the prepared baking dish. It’s helpful to spread them out in an even layer so that each bite gets a bit of both ingredients.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute. This creates a roux, which will thicken the sauce.

Gradually add 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of milk to the roux, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens and becomes smooth. This should take about 5-7 minutes.