Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole with Cheddar Cheese
Broccoli Chicken Divan Casserole with Cheddar Cheese is a comforting, easy-to-make dish combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy sharp cheddar cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this casserole offers a nutritious and satisfying meal with minimal cleanup.
- Author: Judy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie chicken recommended)
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Sauce Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (extra for topping)
- Prepare the Ingredients: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until bright green and tender-crisp. Shred or cube the cooked chicken to have it ready for mixing.
- Make the Cheddar Cheese Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Casserole: Gently fold the cooked chicken and broccoli into the cheese sauce until well coated. Transfer the mixture into a buttered casserole dish and spread it evenly.
- Add the Topping: Sprinkle the breadcrumbs and extra shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top to create a crunchy, golden crust when baked.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 25 to 30 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Let it rest a few minutes before serving to set the casserole and meld the flavors.
Notes
- Use leftover cooked or rotisserie chicken to save prep time.
- Choose sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor impact.
- Blanch broccoli just until tender to avoid mushiness after baking.
- Mix gently but thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly.
- For extra crunch, toss breadcrumbs in melted butter before topping.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Keywords: broccoli chicken casserole, chicken divan, cheddar cheese casserole, easy dinner, comfort food, family friendly