You may be shocked that Chicken Divan doesn’t have roots down South. This signature 1950s classic originated in New York’s Divan Parisienne Restaurant in Hotel Chatham in New York City. The restaurant and the hotel didn’t make it in the long run, but Chicken Divan found its way into recipe boxes across the country. This recipe became so popular that Campbell Soup Company published a recipe for Chicken Divan on the back of a soup can.
Ingredients for Chicken Divan
This casserole is perfect for a cozy family dinner or special occasion, with a cheesy sauce that coats tender chicken and broccoli for a comforting result. To make Chicken Divan, you’ll need:
Unsalted butter and all-purpose flour: Creates a roux to thicken the sauce.
Milk: Liquid base for the sauce for a mild, creamy flavor.
Egg yolks: Adds richness and body to the sauce.
Dry sherry: For a subtle sweetness and added complexity.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami to deepen the flavors.
Parmesan cheese: Gives the sauce a nutty, cheesy flavor, and creates a golden, cheesy topping on top of the dish. For an extra cheesy touch, you can also use shredded Cheddar cheese.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavors.
Whipping cream: Gives the casserole a creamy, indulgent flavor and texture.
Frozen broccoli spears: Offers a fresh touch, nutrients, and pop of color.
Chopped, cooked chicken: The protein base of the dish that absorbs all the flavors of the creamy, cheesy sauce. You can use shredded rotisserie chicken if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I Make Chicken Divan Ahead?
This is a great make-ahead dish, perfect for prepping in advance to get ahead of busy weeks. Assemble the casserole as directed through Step 4. Cool, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for up to two days or freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen before reheating.
When ready to serve, let stand at room temperature while the oven preheats. Bake as directed, adding a few minutes to the baking time as needed until hot throughout and browned.
How To Store and Reheat Leftover Chicken Divan
To store leftover Chicken Divan, wrap tightly or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to four days or freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat, covered, in a preheated 350°F oven or on the stovetop until hot throughout. You can also reheat portions in the microwave.
What To Serve With Chicken Divan
The creamy, cheesy finish of Chicken Divan makes it a rich and comforting dish, with tender chicken and broccoli as a hearty base. To round out the meal, pair with garlic bread, dinner rolls, or biscuits to soak up all that indulgent sauce, or serve with white or brown rice, or mashed or roasted potatoes.
Ingredients
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