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Chicken Divan (without soup!)

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A creamy, cheesy chicken divan casserole made from scratch without canned soup, featuring tender chicken, fresh broccoli, a rich homemade sauce, and a golden crumb topping.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz broccoli, fresh or frozen (about 1 head if fresh)
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (1 1/4 – 1 1/2 lbs), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 4–5 oz fresh mushrooms, sliced (optional)
  • 1/4 cup onion, diced
  • 1 teaspoon cooking oil
  • 4 tablespoons butter (for sauce)
  • 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (35% b.f.)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise or sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/8 teaspoon grated nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1–2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded, to taste
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs, panko, or crushed crackers (for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Steam or blanch broccoli until tender-crisp, then drain and set aside.
  3. Heat oil in a skillet and sauté chicken until lightly browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  4. If using mushrooms and onion, sauté them in the same skillet until softened.
  5. In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour, and cook 1 minute. Slowly add chicken broth, whisking until smooth. Stir in cream and simmer until thickened.
  6. Stir in mayonnaise or sour cream, lemon juice, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
  7. In a casserole dish, layer broccoli, chicken, and mushrooms with onion. Pour sauce evenly over the top.
  8. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over casserole.
  9. Mix bread crumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over cheese.
  10. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until golden and bubbling.

Notes

  • Use sour cream instead of mayonnaise for a tangier flavor.
  • Swap cheddar with Gruyère, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack.
  • Add Parmesan to crumb topping for extra richness.
  • Include cauliflower or peas with broccoli for more vegetables.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in oven for best results.
  • Make gluten-free by using GF flour and breadcrumbs.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://justsosavory.com/chicken-divan-without-soup/