Step-by-Step Guide to the Original Chicken Divan Recipe – A Gourmet Meal Made Simple

If you’re looking for a dish that combines rich, creamy flavors with a touch of nostalgia, the original Chicken Divan recipe is exactly what you need. This classic casserole first appeared in the 1930s at the Divan Parisien restaurant in New York, and it quickly became a beloved comfort food. But what sets the original Chicken Divan apart from the versions you’ll find today is its dedication to quality ingredients and timeless flavors.

In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to make the authentic, original Chicken Divan, no canned soup, no shortcuts, just pure, from-scratch goodness. This dish features tender, juicy chicken, perfectly cooked broccoli, and a smooth, creamy homemade béchamel sauce that will transport you to an era of elegant dining.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this gourmet meal made simple will impress your family and friends while giving you a taste of culinary history. We’ll walk you through every step, from preparing the ingredients to assembling and baking this comforting casserole to perfection.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s make a meal that’s as rich in flavor as it is in history!

What You’ll Need: Ingredients

To make the original Chicken Divan, you’ll want to use high-quality, fresh ingredients that will bring out the best flavors. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, no need for shortcuts or pre-packaged items. Here’s what you’ll need to create this classic, creamy casserole:

Main Ingredients:

• Chicken Breasts (Boneless, Skinless) – You’ll want about 3 cups of cooked chicken, which is roughly 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. For the best flavor, cook the chicken yourself instead of using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken.
• Fresh Broccoli – Fresh broccoli florets are key to achieving the perfect texture. Steamed or blanched broccoli works best, as it holds its shape while absorbing the rich béchamel sauce. You can also use frozen broccoli, but fresh is always recommended for the best results.
• Béchamel Sauce (Made from Scratch) – This is where the magic happens! The original recipe uses a homemade béchamel sauce, which is a rich white sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and seasonings. It’s the base for the creamy texture that makes Chicken Divan so comforting.
• Shredded Cheese (Gruyère or Parmesan) – For a cheesy, golden topping, you’ll need about 1 cup of shredded cheese. Gruyère is ideal for a nutty, sophisticated flavor, but Parmesan works wonderfully as well.
• Butter – About 2 tablespoons of butter for sautéing and creating the béchamel sauce.
• Flour – 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour will help thicken the béchamel sauce and give it that smooth, velvety texture.
• Chicken Broth – About 1 cup of chicken broth (preferably low-sodium) to add depth to the sauce without overpowering the flavors.
• Milk – Full-fat milk (or half-and-half) works best for the béchamel. The creaminess is what makes the sauce so indulgent.
• Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, and Nutmeg) – A pinch of salt and pepper will enhance the natural flavors, while a small dash of nutmeg adds a warm, subtle touch that rounds out the béchamel sauce.

Optional Topping:

• Breadcrumbs – For a crispy, golden finish, you can sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs over the top before baking. This step is optional, but it adds a nice crunch and a bit of extra texture.

Why These Ingredients Matter:

Using fresh, whole ingredients is the key to bringing out the authentic flavors of this dish. The homemade béchamel sauce elevates the Chicken Divan from a simple casserole to a truly gourmet meal. By avoiding shortcuts like canned soups, you ensure that every bite is rich and flavorful, just like the original recipe intended.

Now that we’ve got everything ready, it’s time to move on to the fun part, cooking and assembling!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the original Chicken Divan is easier than you might think! Follow these clear, step-by-step instructions to create this classic dish from scratch. You’ll be rewarded with a creamy, flavorful casserole that’s perfect for dinner any night of the week.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cooking your chicken breasts. You can roast, pan-sear, or poach them, whichever method you prefer. Here’s how to do it:

• Pan-searing (Quick Method): Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Poaching (Tender Method): Place the chicken breasts in a large pot and cover them with water or chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces or slice it thinly.

Once cooked, set the chicken aside and let it cool slightly before cutting it into small cubes or shredding it with a fork. This step ensures you have tender, juicy chicken pieces to layer in your casserole.

Step 2: Make the Béchamel Sauce

Now comes the magic, creating that creamy, velvety béchamel sauce that will coat the chicken and broccoli in a dreamy, rich sauce.

1. In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until melted.
2. Once the butter is melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to make a roux. Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
3. Gradually add 1 cup of chicken broth, whisking continuously to ensure there are no lumps.
4. Slowly pour in 1 cup of milk while continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
5. Once thickened, season with salt, pepper, and a small pinch of nutmeg to taste. You should now have a creamy, smooth béchamel sauce ready to pour over your chicken and broccoli.

Step 3: Steam the Broccoli

While the sauce is thickening, you can prepare the broccoli. Steam or blanch the fresh broccoli florets until they’re just tender but still vibrant green, about 3-4 minutes.

If you’re using frozen broccoli, simply thaw it and give it a quick steam or microwave to heat it through.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Here’s how to assemble your original Chicken Divan:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Layer the bottom of the dish with the cooked chicken. Evenly distribute it to cover the entire surface.
3. Add a layer of the steamed broccoli on top of the chicken. Make sure the broccoli is spread evenly across the dish.
4. Pour the freshly made béchamel sauce over the chicken and broccoli, ensuring everything is coated in that rich, creamy goodness.

Step 5: Add the Topping

If you’re using shredded cheese (Gruyère or Parmesan), sprinkle it generously over the top of the casserole. For an extra crispy finish, you can also sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking.

Step 6: Bake the Chicken Divan

Put the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. If you’re using breadcrumbs, you can broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes to get a crispier, golden crust.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once your Chicken Divan is out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Allowing the casserole to rest helps it firm up, making it easier to serve.

Pro Tips:

• Ensure a creamy sauce: If the béchamel sauce is too thick, simply add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen it up. It should be smooth and pourable but not runny.
• Customize the cheese: Feel free to mix up the cheeses. Gruyère and Parmesan are classic, but you could also add a bit of cheddar for a sharper taste or mozzarella for a gooey finish.
• Add flavor variations: While the traditional recipe is perfect as is, you can add a dash of garlic powder, onion powder, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Divan

To take your original Chicken Divan to the next level, here are a few expert tips that will ensure you make the most of this classic dish. Whether you’re looking to streamline the process, add some flair, or make it your own, these tips will help you create the ultimate creamy, savory casserole.

1. Make-Ahead Tips

If you’re short on time but still want to enjoy this gourmet meal, the Chicken Divan can be made ahead of time! Here’s how:

• Prep the dish in advance: You can assemble the casserole (without baking) a day or two before. Simply store it covered in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
• Freezing: This dish freezes beautifully. If you want to make a large batch for later, assemble the casserole and freeze it before baking. When you’re ready to eat, just bake it from frozen (it will take a little longer to cook, about 45 minutes to 1 hour).

2. Use Fresh Chicken for Best Flavor

While rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken might seem like a shortcut, nothing beats the flavor and tenderness of fresh, cooked chicken breasts. Roasting, pan-searing, or poaching your chicken from scratch will ensure the best flavor in your Chicken Divan, and it’s surprisingly easy to do.

• Tip: For extra flavor, try seasoning your chicken with a little garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs before cooking.

3. The Key to the Perfect Béchamel Sauce

The béchamel sauce is the star of the show, so getting it just right is essential. Here are a few tips for perfecting this creamy sauce:

• Consistency: If your béchamel is too thick, gradually add a bit more milk or chicken broth. If it’s too runny, let it cook for a few extra minutes to thicken up.
• Whisk Constantly: To avoid lumps, make sure you’re whisking the flour and butter mixture (roux) constantly, and add the milk and broth slowly while continuing to whisk.
• Seasoning: A small pinch of nutmeg is traditional and adds a beautiful depth of flavor to the sauce, but be sure not to overdo it. Salt and pepper are also crucial to bringing out the flavors in the sauce.

4. Customize Your Cheese

While the Gruyère and Parmesan cheese combo is the classic choice for Chicken Divan, feel free to get creative with the cheese blend. Here are some alternatives:

• Cheddar: If you like a sharper flavor, add a bit of cheddar cheese to the mix. It melts beautifully and gives the casserole a rich, bold taste.
• Mozzarella: For a gooey, melty texture, mozzarella works wonders. Add it on top for a cheesy, stretchy finish.
• Fontina or Gouda: For a more sophisticated flavor, try fontina or gouda, these cheeses have a creamy, nutty flavor that complements the béchamel sauce perfectly.

5. Keep the Broccoli Crisp

One of the hallmarks of a good Chicken Divan is the broccoli, but it can easily get overcooked if you’re not careful. Here’s how to ensure it stays crisp and vibrant:

• Blanch or Steam Quickly: Only blanch or steam the broccoli for a few minutes, just enough to soften it, but still maintain its bright green color and texture.
• Don’t Overcook: If you’re worried about overcooking, it’s okay to slightly undercook the broccoli before adding it to the casserole. The broccoli will continue cooking in the oven when the dish bakes.

6. Add Some Extra Crunch

If you love a bit of texture, consider adding toasted breadcrumbs to the top of your Chicken Divan. They’ll give the casserole a crunchy, golden finish and make every bite even more satisfying.

• Breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. You can also sauté them in a bit of butter before sprinkling them on top for added flavor.
• Crushed Crackers or Nuts: For a fun twist, try sprinkling crushed buttery crackers or chopped almonds on top. These add an unexpected yet delicious texture contrast.

7. Play with Flavor Variations

While the original Chicken Divan is perfect on its own, don’t be afraid to add your own flair. Here are a few variations you might want to try:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the béchamel sauce for a spicy kick.
• Herbs: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the chicken or sauce for a fragrant, earthy touch.
• Mushrooms: If you love mushrooms, sauté some button mushrooms or shiitakes and add them to the casserole for an extra layer of flavor.

8. Make It Lighter

If you’re looking to lighten up this classic dish without sacrificing flavor, here are a few simple substitutions:

• Low-fat Milk: Swap out whole milk for low-fat milk or almond milk for a lighter béchamel sauce.
• Greek Yogurt: Replace half of the cheese with Greek yogurt for a tangy, creamy texture with fewer calories.
• Chicken Breast Substitutes: For a lower-fat protein option, you could also try using turkey breast or grilled chicken thighs.

How to Serve Chicken Divan

Once your original Chicken Divan is fresh out of the oven, it’s time to think about how to serve this delicious, creamy casserole. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, this dish is sure to be the star of any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate the experience and make it even more enjoyable.

1. Pair with a Simple Green Salad

Chicken Divan is a hearty, rich dish, so pairing it with a fresh, light salad is the perfect way to balance out the flavors. A crisp, leafy salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the creaminess of the casserole.

• Salad ideas: Try a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a mixed greens salad with balsamic dressing. You could also add some cherry tomatoes or cucumber for extra crunch.
• Tip: If you want to add more texture, sprinkle some toasted nuts or parmesan shavings on top.

2. Serve with Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls

For a comforting, indulgent meal, serve your Chicken Divan with a side of garlic bread or soft, buttery dinner rolls. The crispy, garlicky bread is perfect for soaking up any extra creamy sauce from the casserole.

• Garlic Bread: You can make homemade garlic bread by spreading butter, garlic, and herbs on slices of baguette and baking until golden.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft, pillowy rolls are perfect for dipping into the sauce, making them a crowd-pleasing option.

3. Serve with Rice or Mashed Potatoes

To complete the meal and add a comforting, starchy side, serve your Chicken Divan with rice or mashed potatoes. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with both, creating a satisfying, filling dish.

• Rice: Try serving it with a fluffy white rice or wild rice for a bit of texture. For a gourmet touch, you could even prepare a lemon-infused rice or garlic butter rice.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes, with or without gravy, complement the rich casserole beautifully. You could also opt for roasted potatoes for a crisp contrast.

4. Pair with Roasted Vegetables

If you want to keep things light yet flavorful, serve your Chicken Divan with roasted vegetables. Roasting vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or parsnips brings out their natural sweetness and creates a delicious contrast to the creamy casserole.

• Vegetable ideas: Try roasted Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or asparagus for a vibrant, colorful side.
• Tip: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil will take these veggies to the next level.

5. Garnishing Ideas for Extra Flair

To make your Chicken Divan even more visually appealing and flavorful, consider adding some garnishes just before serving.

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and a fresh, herby note.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest can add a fresh, citrusy brightness that balances the richness of the dish.
• Extra Cheese: For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top right before serving.

6. Portioning and Meal Sizes

Chicken Divan is a rich, hearty dish, so when serving, consider your portion sizes to avoid overwhelming your guests. It’s best to serve moderate portions, allowing everyone to enjoy a full plate without feeling too stuffed.

• Serving tip: If you’re hosting a dinner party or meal prep, consider cutting the casserole into smaller squares to make it easier to serve and share.

FAQ

Conclusion

The original Chicken Divan recipe is a timeless classic that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a comforting meal with family, this creamy, flavorful casserole will never disappoint. With its rich history, fresh ingredients, and simple preparation, you can recreate this gourmet dish in your own kitchen and savor the authentic flavors of the 1930s.

By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll not only make a delicious meal but also have fun with the cooking process. Remember, Chicken Divan is versatile, so feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or seasonings to suit your taste.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and enjoy this delightful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Don’t forget to share your creation with family and friends, and feel free to leave a comment or share your thoughts on how you made it your own!

Craving More Delicious Recipes?

If you loved this original Chicken Divan recipe, check out some of our other comforting favorites! Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty casserole, a savory chicken dish, or a tasty side, we’ve got you covered.

• Chicken Tenders and Fries
• Bruces Yams Sweet Potato Casserole
• Paula Deen’s Sweet Potato Casserole
• Cracker Barrel Corn Casserole
• Cattle Drive Casserole

Discover new family favorites and take your cooking to the next level with these delicious dishes. Happy cooking!