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Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan Recipe

Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan Recipe

Recipes Walay
The Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan recipe is a classic, creamy, and comforting dish that is perfect for those who appreciate a hearty meal combined with the elegance of gourmet cooking.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Baking dish (9x13 inches)
  • Small saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Aluminum foil (optional, for covering)

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 large head of broccoli cut into florets
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs optional, for topping

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Cook the chicken: In a large pot of boiling water, cook the chicken breasts until fully cooked, about 15 minutes. Remove, let cool, and then shred or cut into bite-sized pieces.
  • Blanch the broccoli: In the same boiling water, blanch the broccoli florets for 3 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  • To make the sauce: In a small saucepan, heat the butter over medium heat until melted. Whisk in the flour until smooth and cook for 1 minute. Slowly incorporate the milk, whisking continuously, until the sauce becomes thick. Remove from heat and stir in mayonnaise, ground mustard, nutmeg, half of the cheddar, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Assemble the dish: In the baking dish, layer the shredded chicken and blanched broccoli. Drizzle the thick cheese sauce generously over the broccoli. Sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs if using.
  • Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Notes

  1. Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality cheese for better flavor.
  2. Broccoli Texture: Blanch the broccoli just until it’s bright green to keep it crisp in the casserole.
  3. Bread Crumbs: For a crunchier top, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter before sprinkling them over the dish.
  4. Resting Time: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes post-baking to facilitate serving.
  5. Sauce Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the sauce with more or less milk depending on your preference.
Keyword Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan Recipe