Broccoli Chicken Divan
Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 50 minutes Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 3 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Intensity: Low
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This moderate temperature is ideal for baking the dish without burning the cheese or drying out the chicken. - Prepare Broccoli: Intensity: Medium
If using fresh broccoli, blanch it in boiling water for 3 minutes, then plunge into ice water to stop the cooking process. This ensures the broccoli is vibrant and slightly tender. If using frozen broccoli, thaw it and drain any excess water. - Layer Chicken and Broccoli: Intensity: Low
In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer the cooked chicken and broccoli evenly. - Mix Sauce: Intensity: Medium
In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, half of the cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, pepper, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined. This creamy mixture will add moisture and flavor to the dish. - Top and Sprinkle: Intensity: Low
Spread the mayonnaise mixture over the chicken and broccoli. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. In a small bowl, mix melted butter with breadcrumbs, then sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer. This will create a crispy, golden topping. - Bake: Intensity: Low
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and the top is golden brown. The low intensity and extended time allow the flavors to meld together and the cheese to melt perfectly. - Rest and Serve: Intensity: Low
Let the Broccoli Chicken Divan rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the dish to set, making it easier to serve.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 29 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Dietary Fiber: 3 g
- Sugars: 3 g
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
- Sodium: 470 mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
This Broccoli Chicken Divan recipe is a comforting and satisfying dish, perfect for a family dinner. It’s a great way to incorporate vegetables into a meal, while the creamy, cheesy topping makes it a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this classic, easy-to-make dish that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation!
