This broccoli chicken divan is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. With tender chicken and broccoli baked in a creamy sauce and crowned with golden cheese and crisp breadcrumbs, it’s a dish that feels homey and comforting without requiring much effort. Perfect for busy evenings, potlucks, or a cozy family dinner, this one-dish casserole delivers familiar flavors in every warm bite.
Ingredient Breakdown
Broccoli is the backbone of this dish, adding color, structure, and a touch of earthy freshness. Fresh florets deliver a firmer texture and brighter flavor, while thawed frozen broccoli works beautifully when convenience is key—just be sure to drain thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
The chicken can be anything from freshly roasted to rotisserie or even leftover grilled pieces. Keeping it in bite-sized cubes helps it heat evenly and soak up the creamy sauce.
The condensed cream of chicken soup acts as the foundation of the sauce—thick, savory, and full of depth. You can use the standard version, or choose low-fat, heart-healthy, or unsalted depending on your preferences. Milk thins out the soup just enough to help it seep into the layers and create a luscious consistency.
Sharp cheddar cheese brings richness and tang, melting beautifully over the casserole. A mixture of dry breadcrumbs and melted butter creates a crisp, toasty topping that contrasts with the creamy filling beneath, finishing the dish with texture and a satisfying crunch.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. Use a 9-inch pie dish or any shallow baking dish that allows the layers to bake evenly.
Spread the broccoli florets in the bottom of the dish, followed by an even layer of cooked chicken. This base ensures every bite gets a bit of both.
In a small bowl, whisk together the condensed soup and milk until smooth. Pour the mixture gently over the broccoli and chicken, making sure it reaches the edges and seeps between the gaps.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the sauce layer. Then, in another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and melted butter until coated. Scatter the buttery crumbs over the cheese, creating a textured topping.
Place the dish into the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the top is golden brown. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to settle and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
How to avoid watery casseroles when using frozen broccoli
Drain thawed broccoli thoroughly and pat dry with a paper towel before layering it in the dish to keep the sauce from thinning out during baking.
Enhancing flavor with extra seasonings like garlic powder or paprika
Add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika to the soup mixture for added depth and warmth.
Cheese alternatives or blends for different flavor profiles
Swap cheddar for a blend of Gruyère and mozzarella for a more gourmet flavor, or use pepper jack for a subtle kick.
Making the topping extra crispy with panko or crushed crackers
Substitute traditional breadcrumbs with panko for a lighter crunch or crushed butter crackers for a richer, more indulgent topping.
Using a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is reheated to safe temperature
If you’re unsure about the chicken’s internal temperature, check that it reaches at least 165°F in the center before serving.
Can I use uncooked chicken in this recipe?
It’s best to use pre-cooked chicken, as the short bake time may not fully cook raw meat. If using uncooked chicken, cut into small pieces and partially pre-cook before adding.
How should leftovers be stored and reheated?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot, or microwave in individual portions.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble everything except the breadcrumb topping, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking.
Is it freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. Prepare the casserole fully, let it cool, and freeze tightly covered. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.
What’s the best way to make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free condensed soup, breadcrumbs, and double-check all ingredient labels. The rest of the dish adapts easily without compromising flavor.
What to Serve With This Recipe
To complement the rich and creamy texture of this casserole, pair it with a crisp green salad tossed in a vinaigrette or lightly steamed vegetables like green beans or asparagus.
Grain options such as wild rice, buttered egg noodles, or even mashed potatoes make a filling base for soaking up the sauce.
A side of warm garlic bread or soft dinner rolls also pairs well, letting you mop up every creamy bite. For drinks, consider sparkling water with lemon or a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc to brighten the meal.
Creative Variations
Swap the chicken for leftover turkey or baked ham for a post-holiday variation. You can also stir cooked rice or quinoa directly into the base before baking for a one-dish complete meal.
Want to bulk up the vegetable content? Add a layer of sautéed onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers beneath the broccoli for extra flavor.
For the topping, try crushed potato chips or cornflakes for a retro twist, or herbed panko for a more modern, savory crunch.
Broccoli chicken divan is a beloved classic that’s easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for the week ahead, this creamy, cheesy bake delivers every time—with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
4 cups broccoli florets, fresh or thawed from frozen (approximately 12 ounces)
2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed
1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup (regular, 98% fat-free, heart-healthy, or unsalted)
⅓ cup milk
½ cup shredded Cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons plain dry bread crumbs
1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F. As it heats, arrange the broccoli florets and diced cooked chicken evenly in a 9-inch pie dish or shallow baking dish.
In a small mixing bowl, combine the condensed soup with milk and stir until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the broccoli and chicken, allowing it to settle into the gaps. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
In another small bowl, stir together the bread crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Scatter the buttered crumbs evenly over the cheese layer.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the casserole is heated through. Serve warm.
Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets fresh or thawed from frozen (approximately 12 ounces)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast cubed
- 1 can 10.5 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup (regular, 98% fat-free, heart-healthy, or unsalted)
- ⅓ cup milk
- ½ cup shredded Cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons plain dry bread crumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. As it heats, arrange the broccoli florets and diced cooked chicken evenly in a 9-inch pie dish or shallow baking dish.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the condensed soup with milk and stir until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the broccoli and chicken, allowing it to settle into the gaps. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- In another small bowl, stir together the bread crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Scatter the buttered crumbs evenly over the cheese layer.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the casserole is heated through. Serve warm.
