Chicken Divan is a timeless dish, loved for its creamy, cheesy goodness and comforting flavors. This recipe elevates the classic by pairing the delightful chicken and vegetable mixture with fluffy rice, creating a complete and satisfying meal. Forget those complicated, fussy recipes; this version is surprisingly simple to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let's dive in!
What is Chicken Divan?
Chicken Divan is a casserole-style dish featuring cooked chicken, typically in a creamy sauce with broccoli florets and a generous topping of cheese. The "Divan" part of the name refers to the elegant presentation, often served in individual ramekins, though it's equally delicious in a larger casserole dish. The recipe has evolved over time, with variations in the sauce (some use a white sauce béchamel, others a cream of mushroom soup base) and additions like almonds or bread crumbs. Our recipe focuses on simplicity and deliciousness, making it easy to replicate at home.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded (rotisserie chicken works perfectly!)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Vegetables:
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 cup cooked rice (any variety works well)
- For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken (if not using rotisserie): Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add shredded chicken and heat through.
- Steam the Broccoli: Steam broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Don't overcook!
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken mixture, steamed broccoli, and cooked rice. Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and stir gently to coat everything evenly.
- Bake: Pour the chicken divan mixture into a greased casserole dish (or individual ramekins). Sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Chicken Divan with Rice immediately. It's delicious as is, but you can also add a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw it completely before steaming or adding it to the dish to avoid uneven cooking.
What kind of rice is best for this recipe?
Any kind of cooked rice will work well – long grain, short grain, brown rice, etc. Choose your favorite!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the Chicken Divan ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, covered, until ready to bake. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Can I substitute other cheeses?
Absolutely! Swiss, Gruyere, or a blend of cheeses would also be delicious.
What if I don't have Dijon mustard?
You can omit the Dijon mustard or substitute it with a similar amount of prepared yellow mustard. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
Conclusion:
This Chicken Divan with Rice recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli create a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Enjoy!
