Chicken Divan, a creamy, dreamy casserole of chicken, broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce, is a timeless classic. Its comforting flavors and relatively easy preparation make it a crowd-pleaser for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. This recipe explores the traditional Chicken Divan and then offers a delicious twist incorporating sherry and parmesan cheese for an elevated culinary experience.
What is Chicken Divan?
Chicken Divan is a baked dish featuring cooked chicken, usually shredded or diced, combined with steamed or blanched broccoli florets and a creamy sauce. The sauce traditionally uses a béchamel base (butter, flour, milk) enriched with cheese, often sharp cheddar. The entire mixture is typically baked until bubbly and golden brown, often topped with bread crumbs for added texture. Its origins are somewhat debated, but it's widely considered an American classic, gaining popularity in the mid-20th century.
Traditional Chicken Divan Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded or diced
- 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
Instructions:
- Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender-crisp. Drain well.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, creating a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in the cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until melted and smooth.
- In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, combine the shredded chicken, broccoli, and cheese sauce.
- Sprinkle with bread crumbs.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
Chicken Divan with Sherry Parmesan: An Elevated Twist
This variation adds depth and complexity to the classic Chicken Divan by incorporating the rich, nutty notes of sherry and the sharp, salty bite of parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded or diced
- 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup dry sherry (like fino or amontillado)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (optional, for added richness)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
Instructions:
- Prepare the broccoli as in the traditional recipe.
- Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, and cook to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and sherry, bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Reduce heat, stir in parmesan and Gruyere (if using), salt, and pepper until melted and smooth.
- Combine chicken, broccoli, and sauce in a greased baking dish.
- Top with panko bread crumbs.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
What type of cheese is best for Chicken Divan?
Sharp cheddar is the traditional choice, providing a strong, tangy flavor that complements the chicken and broccoli. However, you can experiment with other cheeses. In the sherry parmesan variation, the parmesan provides a salty, nutty counterpoint to the sherry, while Gruyere adds a delightful nutty richness. Experiment with combinations like Monterey Jack, Fontina, or even a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
Can I make Chicken Divan ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the Chicken Divan ahead of time and bake it later. Prepare the chicken, broccoli, and sauce as directed. Combine them in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove from the refrigerator, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and bake according to the recipe instructions. You may need to add a few minutes to the baking time.
What are some variations on Chicken Divan?
Beyond the sherry parmesan twist, you can customize Chicken Divan in numerous ways. Add different vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or peas. Experiment with different herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, or nutmeg. Use different types of chicken, such as rotisserie chicken for even more convenience. The possibilities are endless!
This detailed exploration of Chicken Divan and its sherry parmesan variation offers both a classic recipe and a sophisticated twist, allowing you to explore the delicious versatility of this beloved comfort food. Remember to adjust seasoning to your personal preference. Enjoy!
