Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole with Cheddar Cheese

Discover the joy of a comforting, rich, and wholesome meal with this Easy Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole with Cheddar Cheese. This dish combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious cheddar cheese sauce creating a creamy casserole that’s both satisfying and straightforward to prepare. Perfectly suited for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this recipe delivers flavor, nutrition, and a touch of homemade warmth in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort food classic: A timeless casserole that brings nostalgic flavors to your dinner table.
• Simple prep: Uses accessible ingredients and requires minimal effort in the kitchen.
• Healthy boost: Broccoli adds a nutritious crunch while packing vitamins and fiber.
• Cheesy indulgence: Cheddar cheese enriches the casserole with a creamy, savory finish.
• Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, making it ideal for shared meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole with Cheddar Cheese serves a specific purpose, combining texture, flavor, and color to elevate this dish. From tender chicken to sharp cheddar and crisp broccoli, these essentials come together effortlessly.

• Cooked chicken: Use shredded or diced breast for protein and mild flavor.
• Fresh broccoli florets: Adds vibrant green color and a healthy crunch.
• Cheddar cheese: Provides a rich, creamy, and tangy layer of flavor.
• Mayonnaise or sour cream: Creates a velvety sauce base to hold everything together.
• French onion soup mix: Adds depth without much fuss.
• Milk or cream: Helps achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
• Cooked rice or pasta (optional): To bulk up the casserole and make it more filling.
• Bread crumbs or crushed crackers: Optional topping for a crunchy finish.

Variations for Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole with Cheddar Cheese

One of the best parts about this casserole is how easy it is to personalize. Feel free to tweak ingredients based on what you have available or your dietary preferences to keep it exciting and suited to your palate.

• Vegetarian version: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu to make it plant-based.
• Extra veggies: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots for more color and nutrition.
• Spicy kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a subtle heat boost.
• Different cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or Swiss for a milder, gooier effect.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip the topping entirely.

How to Make Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole with Cheddar Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

Start by cooking the broccoli until just tender—steam or blanch to keep its bright color and crunch. Meanwhile, shred or dice cooked chicken, and grate the cheddar cheese so everything is ready for assembly.

Step 2: Make the cheese sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise or sour cream with milk or cream until smooth. Stir in French onion soup mix and half of the cheddar cheese until the sauce is creamy and well blended.

Step 3: Assemble the casserole

In a large baking dish, layer the broccoli and chicken evenly. Pour the cheese sauce over the top, spreading it to coat all pieces. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, then add bread crumbs or crushed crackers if desired for a crispy crust.

Step 4: Bake until bubbly

Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 25-30 minutes. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, with a golden brown crust forming on top if you added the bread crumbs.

Pro Tips for Making Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole with Cheddar Cheese

• Use fresh broccoli: Avoid overcooking to retain its vibrant color and crunch.
• Mix cheeses: Combining cheddar with a little mozzarella can provide a smoother melt and balanced flavor.
• Pre-cook chicken: Using leftover roasted or poached chicken saves time and adds moisture.
• Don’t skip the topping: Breadcrumbs or crushed crackers add a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy sauce.
• Rest before serving: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes to set, making it easier to slice and serve.

How to Serve Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole with Cheddar Cheese

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. A light dusting of paprika or cracked black pepper can also add a subtle visual and taste boost.

Side Dishes

Pair this hearty casserole with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or steamed rice to balance out the richness and provide complementary textures. A cup of light vegetable soup works wonderfully as a starter.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in ramekins topped with an extra sprinkle of cheese and breadcrumbs for a personalized touch. You can also layer it over cauliflower rice for a low-carb presentation that looks as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the texture and avoid drying out the chicken or broccoli.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well when wrapped tightly. Store in a freezer-safe dish or bag for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftovers in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through to maintain the creamy texture and crisp topping. Microwaving is fine for quick reheats but can sometimes make the broccoli soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this casserole?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well; just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute dairy milk and cheese with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan cheddar, and use mayo or sour cream substitutes.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can assemble it a day before and store it covered in the fridge, then bake when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of French onion soup mix?

Mix together onion powder, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper as a quick homemade alternative.

Can I double this recipe for a larger group?

Definitely! Just use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time slightly to ensure it heats evenly throughout.

Final Thoughts

If you want a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that’s quick to pull together and packed with flavors everyone will adore, this Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole with Cheddar Cheese is an absolute must-try. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—simple, cheesy, and full of heart. Give it a go tonight and enjoy the happy smiles at your dinner table.

Related Posts

• Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake
• One Pan Marry Me Chicken Orzo
• Sauerkraut Casserole

Print