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Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan Recipe

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4.2 from 79 reviews

This Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan recipe is a creamy, comforting casserole made with tender chicken, broccoli, and a cheesy breadcrumb topping. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or as a convenient make-ahead meal that combines rich flavors and textures in every bite.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Chicken and Vegetables

  • 4 cups chicken breast, cooked and diced
  • 4 cups broccoli florets

Sauce

  • 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

Topping

  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz Crackers
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare for baking the casserole.
  2. Steam Broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for 2–3 minutes until just tender, then drain and set aside to prevent overcooking.
  3. Make Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy, forming the flavorful sauce base.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Fold the cooked diced chicken and steamed broccoli into the sauce gently until everything is well coated and evenly mixed.
  5. Assemble Casserole: Spread the chicken and broccoli mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, then sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top.
  6. Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the Panko breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz Crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheddar cheese layer to create a golden, crunchy topping.
  7. Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered for 25–30 minutes until hot, bubbly, and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crisp.
  8. Cool and Serve: Allow the chicken divan to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it with a side salad or over rice for a complete meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
  • Broccoli can be lightly steamed ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to use.
  • For a richer flavor, try mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese with the cheddar topping.
  • Make sure not to overcook the broccoli to keep it tender-crisp and vibrant green.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American