You’re about to dive into the creamy, dreamy world of Chicken Divan, made effortlessly delicious with Campbell’s Soup. This recipe is your ticket to comfort food heaven, with a twist that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Why This Recipe Works
- Effortless Elegance: Campbell’s Soup simplifies the sauce, making this dish both gourmet and easy.
- Texture Play: The combination of tender chicken and crisp broccoli under a creamy blanket is irresistible.
- Versatile: Perfect for weeknights or fancy enough for guests, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
- Leftover Love: Tastes even better the next day, making meal prep a breeze.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Steamer or pot for broccoli
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your baking dish to prevent sticking. This ensures your Chicken Divan slides out perfectly, ready to impress.
Layer the Goodness
Arrange the steamed broccoli florets in the bottom of the dish, followed by the shredded chicken. This creates a sturdy base that holds up under the creamy sauce.
Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, combine the Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup, mayonnaise, and curry powder. Stir until smooth. This sauce is the secret to the dish’s rich flavor and creamy texture.
Top and Bake
Pour the sauce over the chicken and broccoli, spreading evenly. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese, then mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and scatter on top. Bake for 25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
Serve with Love
Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. This rest period allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly, ensuring every bite is perfect.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra crispy topping, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. If you’re short on time, use rotisserie chicken and pre-steamed broccoli. To make it lighter, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. Always taste the sauce before adding it to the dish; adjust the curry powder to suit your preference. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your Campbell’s Soup is gluten-free.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Twist: Swap chicken for chickpeas and use Cream of Mushroom soup.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce or top with jalapeños.
- Cheese Lover’s Dream: Mix in some grated Parmesan with the cheddar for extra cheesiness.
- Low-Carb Version: Skip the breadcrumbs and add a layer of crushed pork rinds for crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Chicken Divan ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed. This makes it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy nights or entertaining.
What can I serve with Chicken Divan?
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, roasted potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice.
Can I freeze Chicken Divan?
Yes, but with a caveat. Freeze before baking for best results. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. Note that the texture of the broccoli may change slightly upon reheating.
Summary
This Campbell Soup Chicken Divan recipe is a creamy, comforting dish that’s easy to make and universally loved. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a foolproof way to bring a touch of elegance to your dinner table.
