Are you looking for a quick and delicious way to use up leftover chicken? Look no further than this delightful Chicken Divan recipe! With juicy bites of chicken layered with nutritious broccoli, all enveloped in a creamy sauce made from canned soup and topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust, this dish is as comforting as it is easy to prepare.
In under an hour, you can have a delightful meal on the table that the whole family will love. Join us as we explore the steps to create this classic dish that blends simplicity and flavor seamlessly!
Historical Background
The name “Divan” is said to be derived from the Turkish word for “council chamber,” and it was used to refer to sophisticated dishes served in fine dining. Denoting a certain elegance, Divan chicken reflects a time in American cooking that embraced French culinary methods while incorporating easily accessible ingredients.
This dish gained prominence in the mid-1900s through cookbooks and homemaker magazines, becoming a staple in American households. Its popularity has continued over the decades, adapting to evolving tastes while still retaining its original charm.
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Nutritional Aspects
Divan chicken can be a nutritious option depending on the ingredients used. Here are some nutritional highlights:
- Protein: Chicken is a high-protein ingredient, essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in vitamins C and K, as well as dietary fiber.
- Calcium: Cheese provides calcium, which is vital for bone health.
- Customization: The recipe can be tailored to include healthier alternatives, like using low-fat cream or additional vegetables.
Despite its creamy allure, it’s crucial to be mindful of portion sizes due to the dish’s caloric density from the cream and cheese.
Variations of Divan Chicken
As with any classic recipe, Divan chicken has seen numerous adaptations over the years. Some of these variations include:
- Divan Chicken with Rice: Some cooks incorporate cooked rice into the dish for added heartiness.
- Gluten-Free Divan Chicken: By substituting traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free options, those with dietary restrictions can enjoy this classic.
- Vegetarian Versions: For those seeking a meatless option, substituting chicken with mushrooms or tofu provides a satisfying alternative.
These variations ensure that Divan chicken can be enjoyed by a wide range of individuals, catering to different dietary needs and preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Divan chicken is versatile in terms of serving. It pairs wonderfully with:
- Salads: A light, refreshing salad can balance the richness of the dish.
- Rolls or Bread: Crusty bread is perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce.
- Vegetables: Additional sautéed or steamed vegetables can round out the meal.
This flexibility makes Divan chicken a fantastic option for both family dinners and entertaining guests.
Conclusion
Divan chicken stands as an enduring testament to American home cooking. Its rich flavors, nutritional potential, and adaptability have solidified its place in both casual and festive dining.
Whether enjoyed in its classic form or through unique variations, Divan chicken continues to warm hearts and fill stomachs, proving that some dishes truly stand the test of time. As culinary traditions evolve, Divan chicken remains a dish that can be cherished by generations, inviting creativity while honoring its roots.
Divan Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 2 lbs. Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, see notes
- Salt/Pepper, to taste
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 stick celery, diced
- 4 cups broccoli florets, about ½ lb.
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 10.5 oz. cream of chicken soup
- 2/3 cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- 2 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- **Topping
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers, or panko breadcrumbs
- 2 Tablespoons butter
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
Prepare the chicken:
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.
Sauté the ingredients:
- Melt butter in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chicken, onions, and celery, tossing to coat.
- Sauté for 3 minutes, until the chicken is about halfway done.
- Add broccoli and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove from heat.
Combine the sauce:
- Add cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, seasonings, and half of the cheese.
- Stir to combine.
Transfer and bake:
- Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9 x 13 casserole dish.
- Top with the remaining cheese.
- Cover and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the cover and increase the oven temperature to 400 degrees.
Prepare the topping:
- Combine melted butter and Ritz crackers.
- Sprinkle the mixture over the casserole.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the top is golden brown.
Final steps:
- Remove from the oven and let sit for 5 minutes prior to serving.
- Serve over rice, biscuits, or mashed potatoes.
Hey readers! Chip Holland here, and I’m a Manager of this website. My passion for writing about it only matches my passion for BBQ. Follow my blog for mouth-watering recipes, tips, and tricks for the perfect smoke, grill, and BBQ. I’m sure you won’t be disappointed!