Chicken casseroles always bring comfort to the table. This Paula Deen Chicken Divan Recipe is one of those dishes that feels warm and welcoming.
It combines tender chicken, broccoli, and a creamy sauce in every bite. If you love easy family dinners, this Paula Deen Chicken Divan Recipe is a great choice.
Today, I will show you How to make Paula Deen Chicken Divan with simple ingredients and easy steps.
My Secret to the Perfect Chicken Divan
My secret is not overcooking the broccoli. Slightly tender broccoli keeps its texture after baking.
I also use freshly cooked chicken whenever possible. It gives better flavor than canned chicken.
Another tip is adding a little cheddar cheese on top. It creates a rich and golden crust.
These small tricks make this dish extra special every time.
Equipment List
- Large pot
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Whisk
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Oven mitts
- Serving spoon
Recipe Overview
- Recipe Name: Paula Deen Chicken Divan Recipe
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 420 kcal per serving
Ingredients You Need for Paula Deen Chicken Divan Recipe
For the Casserole
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounces)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Topping
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier after baking.
2. Cook the Broccoli
Bring water to a boil in a large pot. Cook the broccoli for about three minutes. Drain well and let it cool slightly before using.
3. Arrange the Chicken
Spread the cooked shredded chicken evenly in the baking dish. Make sure it covers the entire bottom. This creates the first layer of flavor.
4. Add the Broccoli
Place the broccoli over the chicken layer. Spread it evenly so every serving gets a good amount of vegetables.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
6. Pour the Sauce
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and broccoli. Use a spoon to spread it evenly across the casserole.
7. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. The cheese adds richness and creates a delicious golden finish.
8. Prepare the Topping
Mix the crushed crackers with melted butter. Stir until all crumbs are coated. This topping adds a wonderful crunchy texture.
9. Add the Crumb Layer
Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the cheese. Try to cover the entire surface for the best results.
10. Bake and Serve
Bake for about 30 minutes. The top should be golden brown and bubbly. Let it rest for five minutes before serving.
Expert Tips & Variations
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Add mozzarella cheese for extra creaminess.
- Mix in cooked mushrooms for more flavor.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Add a pinch of paprika for color.
- Try crushed cornflakes instead of crackers.
- Use turkey instead of chicken after holidays.
- Season lightly because the soup already contains salt.
A Little Backstory on This Recipe
I first made Chicken Divan during a busy week when I needed something easy. I had leftover chicken and fresh broccoli in the fridge.
After one bite, everyone wanted seconds.
Since then, it has become one of my favorite comfort meals. It is simple, filling, and always gets compliments at family gatherings.
The creamy texture and crunchy topping make it a timeless classic.
Best Recipes to Enjoy Alongside Chicken Divan
Chicken Divan pairs well with many side dishes.
Here are some favorites:
- Garlic bread
- Dinner rolls
- Caesar salad
- Mashed potatoes
- Roasted carrots
- Green beans
- Rice pilaf
- Fresh fruit salad
These sides help create a complete and satisfying meal.
Occasion or Event Ideas
This dish works well for many occasions.
- Family dinners
- Potluck parties
- Church gatherings
- Holiday meals
- Weekend lunches
- Meal prep days
- Comfort food nights
- Casual celebrations
It is easy to transport and serves several people.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F.
- Cover with foil to prevent drying.
- Microwave individual portions for quick meals.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 31 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fat | 27 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 690 mg |
FAQs about Paula Deen Chicken Divan Recipe
Can I make Chicken Divan ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole up to one day before baking. Keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake when ready to serve for an easy meal.
What is the best chicken to use?
Rotisserie chicken works very well because it is flavorful and convenient. Any cooked chicken breast or thigh meat can also be used.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes. Let the casserole cool completely before freezing. Store it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to two months.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes. Thaw the broccoli first and drain excess water. Too much moisture can make the casserole watery during baking.
How to make Paula Deen Chicken Divan healthier?
Use light mayonnaise, low-fat sour cream, and reduced-fat cheese. You can also add extra broccoli for more vegetables and fiber.
Final Thoughts
This Paula Deen Chicken Divan Recipe is a true comfort food favorite. It is creamy, hearty, and easy to prepare.
The combination of chicken, broccoli, and rich sauce makes every bite satisfying. Whether you need a family dinner or a dish for guests, this recipe delivers great results.
Try it once, and it may become a regular part of your meal rotation. Enjoy every warm and delicious bite!
Paula Deen Chicken Divan Recipe
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 4 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 can cream of chicken soup 10.5 ounces
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Topping
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
Prepare the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier after baking.
Cook the Broccoli
- Bring water to a boil in a large pot. Cook the broccoli for about three minutes. Drain well and let it cool slightly before using.
Arrange the Chicken
- Spread the cooked shredded chicken evenly in the baking dish. Make sure it covers the entire bottom. This creates the first layer of flavor.
Add the Broccoli
- Place the broccoli over the chicken layer. Spread it evenly so every serving gets a good amount of vegetables.
Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Pour the Sauce
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and broccoli. Use a spoon to spread it evenly across the casserole.
Add the Cheese
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. The cheese adds richness and creates a delicious golden finish.
Prepare the Topping
- Mix the crushed crackers with melted butter. Stir until all crumbs are coated. This topping adds a wonderful crunchy texture.
Add the Crumb Layer
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the cheese. Try to cover the entire surface for the best results.
Bake and Serve
- Bake for about 30 minutes. The top should be golden brown and bubbly. Let it rest for five minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Add mozzarella cheese for extra creaminess.
- Mix in cooked mushrooms for more flavor.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Add a pinch of paprika for color.
- Try crushed cornflakes instead of crackers.
- Use turkey instead of chicken after holidays.
- Season lightly because the soup already contains salt.