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Paula Deen Chicken Divan Recipe

Paula Deen Chicken Divan Recipe

Paula Deen Chicken Divan Recipe is creamy, cheesy, and full of comforting flavor. Tender chicken, broccoli, and rich sauce bake together into a cozy family dinner everyone loves. This easy casserole is simple to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights, holiday meals, or comforting Sunday dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Whisk
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Wooden spoon
  • Oven mitts

Ingredients
  

  • Cooked chicken breast – 4 cups, shredded or cubed
  • Broccoli florets – 4 cups
  • Cream of chicken soup – 1 can
  • Mayonnaise – 1 cup
  • Sour cream – 1 cup
  • Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
  • Onion powder – 1 teaspoon
  • Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
  • Cheddar cheese – 1 cup, shredded
  • Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup, grated
  • Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon
  • Buttery crackers – 1 cup, crushed
  • Butter – 2 tablespoons, melted

Instructions
 

Prepare the broccoli

  • Bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for about three minutes. Drain them well and place them aside. The broccoli should stay slightly crisp and bright green.

Prepare the baking dish

  • Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Spread the cooked broccoli evenly across the bottom of the dish for the first layer.

Add the chicken layer

  • Place the cooked chicken evenly over the broccoli. I like using rotisserie chicken because it saves time and adds extra flavor. Make sure the chicken covers the broccoli so every bite stays balanced.

Make the creamy sauce

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Whisk everything until smooth and creamy. The sauce should look thick and rich.

Pour the sauce over everything

  • Carefully spread the creamy sauce over the chicken and broccoli layers. Use a spoon to cover the entire casserole evenly. This step helps every bite stay moist and full of flavor.

Add the cheese topping

  • Sprinkle the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly across the top. The cheese creates a golden, bubbly layer while baking. My family always loves the crispy cheesy corners the most.

Prepare the cracker topping

  • In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are coated evenly. Sprinkle the buttery crumbs over the cheese layer for extra crunch and texture.

Bake until hot and bubbly

  • Place the casserole into the preheated oven. Bake for about 35 minutes until the top becomes golden brown and the sauce bubbles around the edges. Let it rest for five minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken for faster preparation and extra flavor.
  • Fresh broccoli gives the best texture, but frozen broccoli also works well.
  • Do not overcook the broccoli before baking or it may become too soft.
  • Add cooked rice if you want a heartier casserole meal.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat covered in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for best texture.
Keyword Paula Deen Chicken Divan Recipe