If you have a craving for comfort food that’s both hearty and full of vibrant flavors, this Chicken Divan Casserole with Broccoli, Cheddar, and Crispy Ritz Topping Recipe has your name all over it. Imagine tender chunks of seasoned chicken nestled alongside bright green broccoli florets, all smothered in a creamy, tangy sauce loaded with sharp cheddar cheese, and crowned with a buttery, crispy Ritz cracker topping. It’s an all-in-one dish that delivers on texture and taste, perfect for family dinners or a friendly get-together where everyone asks for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chicken Divan Casserole with Broccoli, Cheddar, and Crispy Ritz Topping Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtful ingredients. Each one contributes to a harmonious taste palette, with the broth of savory chicken, fresh broccoli’s slight crunch, and cheddar’s gooey richness, plus that unforgettable buttery crunch from the Ritz topping.
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cubed to ensure tender, bite-sized pieces that cook evenly.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a mellow, aromatic punch without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances savory depth subtly in the chicken seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon curry powder: Brings warm, earthy undertones that give the casserole a subtle twist.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing and bringing out all the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Offers a gentle heat that cuts through the creamy sauce.
- 3 cups broccoli florets: Provide fresh green color, slight crunch, and nutritional goodness.
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of broccoli cheese soup: The velvety base that ties vegetables and chicken together smoothly.
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup: Adds richness and that classic comforting chicken flavor.
- ½ cup sour cream: Delivers tangy creaminess for extra depth in the sauce.
- ¼ cup milk: Helps thin out the sauce to a perfect consistency.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: A bright kick that balances the richness beautifully.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Sharp and melty, it’s the ultimate cheesy centerpiece and topping ingredient.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to brown the chicken and add subtle fruity notes.
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers: Creates a golden, buttery, crispy topping that adds that irresistible crunch.
How to Make Chicken Divan Casserole with Broccoli, Cheddar, and Crispy Ritz Topping Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your casserole dish with olive oil or cooking spray is a simple step that prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier, setting you up for success before you even begin cooking the filling.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a bowl, toss the cubed chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, curry powder, salt, and black pepper. This seasoning blend brings layers of flavor that will make every bite of your Chicken Divan Casserole with Broccoli, Cheddar, and Crispy Ritz Topping Recipe sing with well-balanced, cozy warmth.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the seasoned chicken. Cooking it until lightly browned (about 5 to 7 minutes) locks in juices and adds a subtle crust that enhances texture. Once cooked through, remove the chicken and set it aside to rest while you prep the veggies.
Step 4: Blanch the Broccoli
Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the broccoli florets for around 5 minutes until fork-tender but still vibrantly green. This quick cooking method preserves the vegetable’s crispness and bright color, which pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce later on.
Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Sauce Mixture
Combine the condensed cream of broccoli cheese soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and lemon juice in a large mixing bowl. Add the cooked chicken and blanched broccoli florets, folding everything together until evenly coated with the luscious sauce. This step is where the components gracefully marry.
Step 6: Fold in Cheese
Gently integrate 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture, making sure it’s spread uniformly. The cheese melts into the warm sauce, creating that dreamy, gooey texture that defines this Chicken Divan Casserole with Broccoli, Cheddar, and Crispy Ritz Topping Recipe as a sweet spot between indulgent and nourishing.
Step 7: Assemble and Add the Topping
Transfer your creamy chicken and broccoli mixture into the prepared casserole dish and sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese. Then evenly layer the crushed Ritz crackers on top to introduce that sought-after crunchy finish.
Step 8: Bake Until Golden
Pop the casserole into the oven for about 20-25 minutes. The cheese will bubble and the Ritz topping will turn a gorgeous golden brown, delivering that irresistible crispiness contrasted with the creamy filling beneath. Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes so the flavors settle.
How to Serve Chicken Divan Casserole with Broccoli, Cheddar, and Crispy Ritz Topping Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or a few thin lemon slices brightens the plate visually and offers an herbal fresh note that complements the rich casserole. A light sprinkle of paprika can also add a gentle smokiness and appealing color contrast.
Side Dishes
This casserole is quite wholesome on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or a tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy, cheesy core. Roasted root vegetables or simple steamed rice make for great extra sides if you’re feeding a hungry crowd.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fresh twist, serve the Chicken Divan Casserole with Broccoli, Cheddar, and Crispy Ritz Topping Recipe in individual ramekins. This not only ups the presentation game but also makes portioning and serving super easy and charming for your guests. Another fun idea is to layer the casserole over toasted baguette slices for an elegant appetizer vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Chicken Divan Casserole with Broccoli, Cheddar, and Crispy Ritz Topping Recipe in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect lunch option that reheats wonderfully without losing flavor or texture.
Freezing
To freeze, assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake it straight from frozen, adding a little extra time so it heats through completely and achieves that iconic crispy topping.
Reheating
For best results, reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the topping crisps back up—about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the delicious textures intact, although it can be used in a pinch for a faster meal.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before mixing into the casserole, as excess moisture could make the dish watery. Frozen broccoli can be a convenient and cost-effective alternative.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Additionally, verify that the condensed soups you use are gluten-free or make your own sauce from scratch.
Can I use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken pieces?
Using shredded rotisserie chicken works well and saves time. Toss it with the seasoning for extra flavor if you like, or add it directly to the sauce mixture before baking.
How spicy is this Chicken Divan Casserole with Broccoli, Cheddar, and Crispy Ritz Topping Recipe?
This recipe has mild warmth from the curry powder and black pepper but nothing overpowering. If you prefer less spice, reduce or omit the curry powder; for a kick, add a pinch of cayenne or some chopped jalapeño.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?
Definitely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes for an effortless dinner solution when you’re busy or hosting guests.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Divan Casserole with Broccoli, Cheddar, and Crispy Ritz Topping Recipe holds a special place in my heart as a cozy, flavorful dish that satisfies cravings and brings people around the table. Its balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with fresh broccoli and tender chicken, finished with that crunchy topping, is simply unbeatable. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try — I promise it will become a beloved classic in your recipe collection too.
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Chicken Divan Casserole with Broccoli, Cheddar, and Crispy Ritz Topping Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Chicken Divan is a creamy, cheesy casserole featuring tender chicken breast cubes, broccoli florets, and a rich sauce made from cream soups and sour cream. Baked to perfection with a crunchy Ritz cracker topping and melted cheddar cheese, this classic comfort dish combines savory spices and tangy lemon juice for a delectable family meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables
- 3 cups broccoli florets
Sauce and Cheese
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of broccoli cheese soup
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Topping and Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and spray or brush an 8×8-inch casserole dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Season the chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken cubes with garlic powder, onion powder, curry powder, salt, and black pepper, ensuring even coating of all pieces.
- Brown the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken cubes and cook for 5-7 minutes until they are slightly browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Blanch the broccoli: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for about 5 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of broccoli cheese soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and lemon juice. Stir in the cooked chicken and blanched broccoli, mixing thoroughly until well coated.
- Add cheese: Fold in 1½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese into the casserole mixture, distributing it evenly throughout.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Add topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with olive oil until coated evenly. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole to create a crunchy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps set the layers and improves flavor melding.
Notes
- You can substitute broccoli with cauliflower if preferred.
- For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese.
- Make sure to drain the broccoli well after blanching to avoid a watery casserole.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the seasoning mix for a spicier version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
