Paula Deen Chicken Divan Recipe

The Paula Deen Chicken Divan Recipe is a creamy and comforting casserole perfect for family dinners. This Paula Deen Chicken Divan Recipe combines tender chicken, broccoli, cheese and a rich creamy sauce.

It is warm, filling and easy to prepare at home. The crispy topping adds a delicious crunch to every bite.

This classic casserole works well for busy weeknights or holiday meals. Everyone enjoys the cheesy flavor and soft texture of this comforting baked dish.

My Experience With This Paula Deen Chicken Divan Recipe

I first made this casserole during a cold winter evening. My family loved the creamy sauce and cheesy topping.

The broccoli stayed tender while the chicken remained juicy. I also liked how simple the recipe felt. Most ingredients were already in my kitchen.

The leftovers tasted even better the next day. Now, I make this dish whenever I want something warm, hearty and easy for dinner.

Recipe Card Info

• Recipe Name: Paula Deen Chicken Divan
• Servings: 6 servings
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Course: Dinner
• Cuisine: American
• Calories: 420 kcal per serving

Equipment List

• Large mixing bowl
• Saucepan
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Wooden spoon
• Oven mitts
• Oven

Ingredients You Need for Paula Deen Chicken Divan

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup crushed buttery crackers
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent the casserole from sticking while baking.

2. Cook the Broccoli

Bring water to a boil in a saucepan. Add broccoli florets and cook for three minutes until slightly tender but still bright green and fresh.

3. Arrange Chicken and Broccoli

Spread cooked broccoli evenly across the baking dish. Add shredded chicken over the broccoli layer so every serving gets both ingredients evenly distributed.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder and black pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy throughout.

5. Add the Sauce

Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the chicken and broccoli. Use a spoon or spatula to spread the sauce across the entire casserole dish.

6. Add Cheese

Sprinkle cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. The cheese melts beautifully and creates a rich, creamy layer during baking time.

7. Prepare the Topping

Mix crushed buttery crackers with melted butter inside a small bowl. Stir until the crumbs become coated and slightly moist for crispy topping texture.

8. Add the Cracker Topping

Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the casserole. Cover the entire top layer so every bite gets a crunchy and golden topping.

9. Bake the Casserole

Place the dish inside the oven and bake for about 35 minutes. The casserole should become bubbly, hot and lightly golden on top.

10. Cool Before Serving

Remove the casserole carefully from the oven. Let it rest for five minutes before serving so the sauce thickens slightly and flavors settle nicely.

Recipe Tips

• Use rotisserie chicken for faster preparation.
• Do not overcook the broccoli before baking.
• Freshly shredded cheese melts better than packaged cheese.
• Add cooked rice for a heartier casserole.
• Cover with foil if the topping browns too quickly.
• Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
• Add extra Parmesan cheese for richer flavor.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	420 kcal
Protein	28 g
Carbohydrates	14 g
Fat	28 g
Saturated Fat	11 g
Cholesterol	85 mg
Sodium	620 mg
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	3 g

Serving Suggestions

Paula Deen chicken divan tastes wonderful served warm from the oven. I enjoy pairing it with fluffy white rice or buttery mashed potatoes.

A fresh green salad also balances the creamy casserole nicely. Warm dinner rolls work perfectly for soaking extra sauce.

This comforting dish also fits holiday dinners and potluck gatherings. The cheesy sauce and crunchy topping make every serving satisfying and filling.

Best Sides To Serve With

• Garlic bread
• Mashed potatoes
• White rice
• Garden salad
• Dinner rolls
• Roasted carrots
• Green beans
• Cornbread

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover chicken divan in an airtight container inside the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat portions in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about fifteen minutes.

You can also microwave individual servings for quick meals. Cover the casserole while reheating to keep it moist. This casserole freezes well too. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs about Paula Deen Chicken Divan

Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this casserole. Thaw and drain it first to remove extra water and prevent the casserole from becoming watery during baking.

What chicken works best for chicken divan?

Cooked shredded chicken breast works great because it stays tender. Rotisserie chicken also saves time and adds delicious flavor to the casserole recipe.

Can I make chicken divan ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole one day earlier. Cover it tightly and store inside the refrigerator until ready to bake the next day.

How do I keep the topping crispy?

Add the buttery cracker topping right before baking. This keeps the crumbs crunchy and prevents them from becoming soft while sitting in the sauce.

Can I add rice to this casserole?

Yes, cooked rice makes the casserole more filling. Spread the rice under the chicken layer before adding the creamy sauce and cheese topping.

Conclusion

The Paula Deen Chicken Divan Recipe is creamy, cheesy and full of comforting flavor. It combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli and rich sauce perfectly.

The crispy cracker topping adds wonderful texture to every bite. This easy casserole works for family dinners, holidays and busy evenings.

The recipe is simple enough for beginners but delicious enough for special occasions. Once you try this homemade chicken divan, it may become one of your favorite comfort food recipes.