Why You’ll Love This Chicken Divan Recipe
You’ll love this Chicken Divan recipe because it combines rich flavors and comforting textures in every bite. The creamy sauce envelops tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, creating a delightful harmony on your plate.
I can’t resist the melty gruyere cheese that adds depth while the slight crunch of broccoli offers a satisfying contrast. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare!
Whether I’m serving it for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, this dish never fails to please. The aroma wafts through the house, making it an instant favorite.
Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!
Ingredients of Chicken Divan
When it comes to making Chicken Divan, having the right ingredients on hand is key. This creamy, cheesy dish is a delightful blend of flavors that’ll make your taste buds dance with joy. Plus, it’s simple enough that even a novice cook can whip it up without breaking a sweat.
So, let’s gather our ingredients and prepare to create something truly special.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Chicken Divan:
- 3 cups broccoli, chopped
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup 2% low-fat milk
- 3/4 cup gruyere cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 boneless skinless chicken breast halves, cooked and sliced
Now, if you’re anything like me, you might sometimes forget to check your pantry before you head out grocery shopping. I mean, who hasn’t had that moment of panic when you realize you’re out of flour or, heaven forbid, cheese?
So, a little tip: it’s always a good idea to double-check your ingredients before you start cooking. Also, feel free to swap out the gruyere cheese for another type if you prefer, but trust me, that melty goodness is worth it.
And don’t forget the broccoli! It’s not just for decoration; it brings a lovely crunch and a pop of color to the dish.
Happy cooking!
How to Make Chicken Divan
Making Chicken Divan is a delightful experience that combines ease with a touch of elegance. First things first, let’s tackle the broccoli. You’ll need 3 cups of chopped broccoli. Bring a large pot of water to a roaring boil—like, it should be bubbling like it’s auditioning for a role in a cooking show.
Once it’s ready, toss in the broccoli and let it blanch for about 3 minutes. Yes, just three minutes. You want it bright green and slightly tender, not mushy. After that, drain the broccoli and quickly plunge it into a bowl of cold water. This little ice bath will stop the cooking process, ensuring your broccoli remains vibrant and crunchy.
Drain it again, pat it dry with paper towels, and set it aside.
Now, let’s get saucy! Preheat your oven to 350°F—this is where the magic happens. In a medium saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. As it melts, sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and whisk until it’s smooth. You want a nice, creamy consistency without any lumps.
Gradually stir in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of 2% low-fat milk, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. You’ll see it thicken up beautifully. Once it’s boiling, remove it from the heat and stir in 1/2 cup of shredded gruyere cheese. Oh, that cheesy goodness is what dreams are made of. Season it all with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.
Now comes the fun part—assembly! Grab a 9 x 13 inch baking dish and arrange the broccoli at the bottom. Pour half of that luscious cheese sauce over the broccoli, then lay down your 3 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, which you’ve cooked and sliced.
Feel free to arrange them however you like; there’s no wrong way to do this. Cover the chicken with the remaining sauce and then sprinkle the last 1/4 cup of gruyere cheese on top. It’s like a cozy blanket of cheese.
Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until it’s bubbling and golden. The aroma will have you salivating, and trust me, waiting is the hardest part. Once it’s done, serve it up hot, and watch everyone’s faces light up with joy. Enjoy your culinary triumph!
Chicken Divan Substitutions & Variations
While Chicken Divan is a classic dish, there’s plenty of room for creativity with substitutions and variations that can cater to different tastes and dietary needs.
For a lighter version, I often swap in Greek yogurt for the butter and cream. If you’re vegetarian, consider using chickpeas or tofu instead of chicken.
Broccoli can be replaced with asparagus or spinach for a fresh twist. I’ve even tried adding mushrooms for extra flavor.
Don’t forget about cheese alternatives; nutritional yeast works wonders! Each change keeps the spirit of Chicken Divan alive while tailoring it to my preferences.
Enjoy experimenting!
Additional Tips & Notes
To enhance your Chicken Divan experience, I recommend prepping your ingredients in advance. This way, you’ll save time and reduce stress while cooking.
Don’t forget to taste your sauce; adjusting the seasoning can make a big difference. If you want to add a bit of crunch, consider topping your dish with breadcrumbs before baking.
For a creamier texture, you can mix in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese.
Finally, let your dish sit for a few minutes after baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes serving easier.
Enjoy every delicious bite!