Name: Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups chicken breast, cooked and diced; 4 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz Crackers; 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 79 reviews

If you are craving a comforting, creamy casserole that feels like a warm hug in every bite, the Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan Recipe is your new best friend. This dish beautifully marries tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious blend of mayonnaise and sour cream, all crowned with a golden, crispy topping that adds just the right amount of crunch. It is a perfect centerpiece for family dinners or a reliable make-ahead meal that makes busy nights effortless and delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with various clear glass bowls and a white plate arranged neatly. On the white plate, there are two raw light pink chicken pieces. Surrounding the plate are glass bowls holding vibrant green broccoli florets, bright orange shredded cheddar cheese, round golden brown crackers stacked flat, chopped pale green celery, and chopped white onions. There are also smaller bowls containing a creamy white sauce, a pale yellow thick sauce, a small amount of light yellow seasonings, clear olive oil, white milk, and white salt. The setting is clean and organized. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in creating a harmony of flavors and textures. From the protein-packed chicken to the fresh broccoli, each component is simple yet essential to building the classic richness of this dish.

4 cups chicken breast, cooked and diced: Using cooked chicken saves time and ensures tenderness that’s perfect for casseroles.
4 cups broccoli florets: Adds a bright green pop of color and a nutritious bite with a slight crunch.
1 cup mayonnaise: Delivers creamy richness and depth to the sauce.
1/2 cup sour cream: Brings a subtle tang that balances the mayonnaise’s richness.
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Offers a sharp, savory flavor that melts beautifully on top.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds a fresh zing that lifts the creamy elements.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors naturally.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle warmth that rounds out the seasoning.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the dish with subtle aromatic depth without overpowering it.
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz Crackers: Creates an irresistible crunchy topping that contrasts the creamy filling.
2 tablespoons butter, melted: Ensures the topping browns beautifully and nicely crisps.

How to Make Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your delicious creation won’t stick and will bake evenly to perfection.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

Gently steam or blanch the broccoli florets for 2 to 3 minutes. The goal is to achieve a just tender texture so they stay bright green and hold a nice bite in the final dish. Once done, drain and set the broccoli aside.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, blend together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. This rich sauce is what ties the chicken and broccoli together in that signature Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan Recipe style.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Broccoli with Sauce

Gently fold the cooked, diced chicken and steamed broccoli into the creamy mixture. Be careful not to overmix so the broccoli florets maintain their lovely shape and texture.

Step 5: Assemble in Baking Dish

Spread the combined chicken and broccoli mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Then sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar evenly over the top. This cheese layer will melt into a gooey, savory layer during baking.

Step 6: Prepare and Add the Topping

Mix the panko breadcrumbs (or crushed Ritz Crackers) with the melted butter until the crumbs are fully coated. Sprinkle this buttery topping generously over the cheese layer, which will brown to a perfect golden crisp in the oven.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake the casserole uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until the dish is hot and bubbly, and the topping has turned delightfully golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

How to Serve Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan Recipe

A round black pan filled with a creamy broccoli cheese mixture, showing bright green broccoli florets and melted white and light orange cheese mixed throughout. Surrounding the pan is a white cloth with blue and beige stripes, placed on a white marbled surface. Nearby are clear bowls with shredded yellow cheddar cheese, chopped white chicken with pepper, round light yellow crackers, and a small bowl of yellow oil. The scene is bright and clean, presenting a fresh and inviting meal photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few sprigs of thyme lend a fresh herbal note and brighten the presentation wonderfully. A light dusting of paprika can add a subtle color contrast and depth as well.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, or fluffy white rice that soaks up the creamy sauce. Roasted baby potatoes or garlic bread also add hearty elements to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

You can elevate your Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan Recipe by serving it in smaller individual ramekins or elegant cast iron skillets for a rustic, cozy vibe. Alternatively, present the casserole on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs and a wedge of lemon for guests to help themselves, perfect for family-style dining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover casserole tightly with foil or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making quick lunches or dinners incredibly easy the next day.

Freezing

The Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan Recipe freezes beautifully. Prepare the casserole completely, but stop before baking. Wrap well and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed for a convenient and tasty meal anytime.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Removing the foil in the last few minutes helps the topping regain its crispy texture for that fresh-baked feel.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just thaw and drain the broccoli well to avoid excess moisture, which can make the casserole watery. Frozen broccoli works well if fresh isn’t available.

Is there a substitute for mayonnaise and sour cream?

You can use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative to both if you prefer. It will maintain creaminess with a bit more tang and less fat.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the crispy topping without gluten.

What type of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work perfectly. Just be sure the chicken is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole mixture.

Can this recipe be doubled for a larger group?

Definitely. Just use a larger baking dish to accommodate the extra volume and increase baking time slightly to ensure it heats evenly throughout.

Final Thoughts

The Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan Recipe is such a comforting classic that brings warmth and joy to the table with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or planning ahead for the week, it’s a reliable, flavorful dish that always delivers. Give it a try and watch this creamy, cheesy casserole quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes too!