Paula Deen Chicken Divan with Broccoli – Creamy, Cheesy, and Quick to Make

There’s just something magical about a warm, bubbling casserole fresh out of the oven, especially when it’s packed with juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and layers of creamy, cheesy goodness. If you’re craving comfort food with a Southern twist, this Paula Deen Chicken Divan is exactly what you need.

A classic from the 1950s with roots in New York but flavor straight out of Savannah, Chicken Divan is a baked casserole traditionally made with chicken, broccoli, and a creamy sauce. But when Paula Deen’s Southern spin gets involved, you can expect it to be even richer, cheesier, and more comforting than ever.

This version keeps things easy and weeknight-friendly, thanks to shortcuts like rotisserie chicken and a few pantry staples, but doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether you’re feeding your family, prepping for a potluck, or looking for a dish to make ahead and freeze, this creamy chicken broccoli bake hits all the right notes.

In this recipe, I’ll walk you through everything from the best ingredients to use, to make-ahead tips and tasty variations. So let’s get that oven preheating and bring a little Southern comfort to your dinner table tonight.

🟢 Ingredients for Paula Deen’s Chicken Divan

This recipe brings together simple ingredients you probably already have on hand, but with just the right combination, they create a creamy, cheesy casserole that feels like a warm hug from the South.

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this Paula Deen-style Chicken Divan with broccoli:

🛒 Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed Rotisserie chicken works beautifully here for convenience.
• 2 cups broccoli florets, lightly steamed or blanched Frozen broccoli? No problem, just thaw and drain well.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese For that signature Southern cheesiness, sharp cheddar is ideal.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup Use homemade or store-bought. Cream of mushroom works in a pinch.
• ½ cup mayonnaise Classic Paula Deen style , adds richness and tang.
• ½ cup sour cream For a creamier, slightly tart base.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder Optional, but it gives great depth.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

🧈 Topping (The Southern Secret!)

• 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz) For that golden, crispy, irresistible topping.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter Because it’s not Southern without a little extra butter.

📝 Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ cup cooked white rice (to stretch the dish or make it heartier)
• Dash of Dijon mustard (for a little zing in the sauce)
• Pinch of paprika (for color and subtle warmth)

Pro Tip: This recipe is easy to customize, you can swap out the sour cream for plain Greek yogurt, use low-fat mayo, or even make it gluten-free with GF cream soup and crackers.

🟠 How to Make Paula Deen’s Chicken Divan (Step-by-Step)

Making this creamy Southern-style chicken broccoli casserole is easier than you think, and with just a few simple steps, you’ll have a golden, bubbly dish ready to serve in under an hour.

Here’s exactly how to make Paula Deen Chicken Divan with broccoli, from prep to table:

🔪 Step 1: Preheat and Prep

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Pro Tip: A ceramic or glass baking dish helps keep the heat even and gives a beautiful table presentation.

🥣 Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Stir everything together until smooth and creamy.

🥦 Step 3: Layer the Chicken and Broccoli

• Spread the cooked broccoli florets evenly across the bottom of your baking dish.
• Top with the shredded or cubed chicken, spreading it out in an even layer.

You can mix the broccoli and chicken together if you prefer everything evenly coated.

🧀 Step 4: Pour and Spread the Sauce

• Spoon the creamy mixture over the chicken and broccoli layers.
• Use a spatula to gently spread it out, covering every inch of the surface.

🧂 Step 5: Add Cheese and Crunchy Topping

• Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the sauce.
• In a small bowl, combine the crushed buttery crackers with melted butter.
• Sprinkle the cracker topping generously over the cheese.

This cracker topping gives you that signature Paula Deen-style golden crunch.

🔥 Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

• Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.

If you like a darker top, broil it for the last 2–3 minutes, but watch it closely!

🥄 Step 7: Rest and Serve

• Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before serving.
• This helps the sauce thicken and the flavors meld beautifully.

That’s it! In just a few simple steps, you’ve got a Southern comfort classic packed with flavor, texture, and homemade goodness.

🟣 Why This is the Best Paula Deen Chicken Divan Recipe

When it comes to comfort food casseroles, Chicken Divan is already a standout. But this version, inspired by Paula Deen’s rich, Southern cooking style, takes it to the next level. Here’s what makes this dish the absolute best chicken divan you’ll ever make:

✅ It’s Southern Comfort in Every Bite

Paula Deen is known for turning simple ingredients into decadent, homey dishes, and this recipe is no exception. With buttery crackers, a creamy base, and gooey cheese, every bite delivers that warm, nostalgic feel of a Southern Sunday dinner.

✅ Perfect for Busy Weeknights or Make-Ahead Meals

Using cooked or rotisserie chicken cuts down your prep time, making this casserole weeknight-friendly without sacrificing flavor. It also freezes and reheats like a dream, ideal for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

✅ It’s Customizable to Your Taste

You can easily tweak the ingredients:

• Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt
• Use a different cheese blend (like mozzarella or Monterey Jack)
• Make it gluten-free with GF cream soup and crackers

This flexibility makes it a favorite in both traditional Southern kitchens and modern family homes.

✅ Crowd-Pleasing and Kid-Approved

Let’s be real, chicken, cheese, and a crispy topping? Kids and adults alike can’t resist it. This is the kind of dish that disappears fast at potlucks, family dinners, and holidays.

✅ It Honors the Classic While Making It Better

Traditional Chicken Divan has its roots in 1950s Americana, but Paula’s twist, with mayo, extra cheese, and that rich cracker topping, adds a Southern flair that turns this into a true showstopper.

This version isn’t just a recipe, it’s an experience. It hits all the marks for flavor, ease, comfort, and that little bit of Paula Deen indulgence we all secretly love.

🔵 Tips for Perfect Chicken Divan Every Time

Making a casserole might seem foolproof, but even the classics need a few tricks to get that just-right texture and flavor. These tips will help you nail this Paula Deen Chicken Divan with broccoli every time, creamy, flavorful, and never soggy.

🥦 1. Don’t Overcook the Broccoli

Steam or blanch your broccoli just until tender-crisp. Overcooked broccoli will become mushy in the oven and can water down your sauce.

✅ Pro Tip: If using frozen broccoli, thaw and pat it dry with paper towels before layering.

🍗 2. Use Rotisserie Chicken for Maximum Flavor

Not only is it a time-saver, but rotisserie chicken adds more depth and seasoning.

If cooking your own, lightly season it with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

🧀 3. Grate Your Own Cheese

Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. For a smoother, meltier casserole, grate your cheese fresh from the block.

🧈 4. Toast the Cracker Topping for Extra Crunch

For that signature Paula Deen-style golden crust, mix crushed buttery crackers with melted butter just before sprinkling. It crisps up beautifully in the oven.

🥄 5. Let It Rest Before Serving

After baking, let the casserole sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and keeps everything from falling apart when served.

🥶 6. Want to Make It Ahead or Freeze It?

No problem. You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate, or freeze it (unbaked) for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in foil and bake from frozen, adding 15–20 minutes to the cooking time.

⚖️ 7. Balance the Flavors

Give the sauce a quick taste before assembling the casserole to make sure the seasoning is just right. Want a tangier bite? For a little extra zing, consider mixing in a splash of lemon juice or a hint of Dijon mustard. Too salty? Use low-sodium soup or unsalted butter crackers next time.

With these tips, you’re not just making a casserole, you’re making a reliable, flavorful dish that’s good enough for company and easy enough for weeknights.

🟤 Recipe Variations You Can Try

One of the best things about Chicken Divan is how easy it is to adapt to your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re lightening things up, avoiding gluten, or adding a new twist, these delicious variations will keep this recipe fresh and flexible.

🥛 1. Lightened-Up Chicken Divan

Looking for a healthier take? You can still get all the flavor without all the fat:

• Swap sour cream for plain Greek yogurt
• Use reduced-fat cheese
• Replace mayonnaise with light mayo or even mashed avocado
• Try whole grain crackers for the topping

🧀 2. Extra Cheesy & Creamy Version

For cheese lovers, up the indulgence:

• Add ½ cup cream cheese to the sauce mixture
• Use a blend of cheeses: cheddar, mozzarella, and a touch of parmesan
• Sprinkle extra cheese under and over the cracker topping for gooey layers

🌾 3. Gluten-Free Chicken Divan

Gluten sensitivity? Easy fix:

• Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup
• Swap in GF crackers or crushed rice cereal (like Rice Chex) for the topping
• Double-check all packaged items for gluten-friendly labels

🥦 4. Low-Carb / Keto-Friendly Option

Ditch the carbs without losing flavor:

• Use extra broccoli or cauliflower rice as a base
• Skip the cracker topping or use crushed pork rinds for crunch
• Use full-fat mayo, sour cream, and cheese for satisfying richness

🍚 5. Chicken Divan with Rice (Casserole Style)

Want to stretch the dish further or make it heartier?

• Add 1 to 1½ cups cooked white or brown rice to the chicken and broccoli layer
• This turns it into a one-pan meal that’s ultra-filling and perfect for leftovers

📝 Great for terms like chicken divan with rice or one-dish chicken broccoli rice bake.

🍄 6. Mushroom Lovers’ Version

Add umami and richness by mixing in:

• Sautéed mushrooms
• A blend of cream of mushroom soup + cream of chicken soup
• Optional splash of white wine or Worcestershire sauce

Feel free to get creative, the base of this casserole is so forgiving, you can mix and match based on what’s in your fridge. It’s the kind of recipe that evolves with your kitchen.

🟢 What to Serve with Chicken Divan

Chicken Divan is already a full-flavored casserole, loaded with creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli. But pair it with the right side dishes, and you’ve got a well-rounded Southern-style meal worthy of any family dinner or holiday spread.

Here are some delicious, complementary sides to serve with Paula Deen’s Chicken Divan:

🥔 1. Mashed Potatoes or Garlic Smashed Potatoes

Creamy meets creamy! A scoop of buttery mashed potatoes makes the perfect companion, especially if you’re leaning into comfort food.

Want more texture? Try smashed red potatoes with garlic and parsley.

🥖 2. Buttery Dinner Rolls or Biscuits

Nothing soaks up that rich, cheesy sauce like a soft, warm roll. Go traditional with Southern buttermilk biscuits, or try fluffy yeast rolls for a crowd-pleaser.

🥗 3. Simple Green Salad with Vinaigrette

Balance out the richness of the casserole with something fresh and crisp. A mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette adds brightness and cuts through the creaminess.

Bonus: A squeeze of lemon over the salad pairs surprisingly well with the cheesy casserole!

🌽 4. Southern-Style Green Beans

You can never go wrong with seasoned green beans cooked low and slow, especially if they’ve got onions, a bit of bacon, or a pinch of cayenne.

✅ Perfect for that full Southern table experience.

🍑 5. Sweet Southern Sides (Optional)

If you’re serving this for Sunday dinner or a holiday meal, add a bit of sweetness:

• Candied sweet potatoes
• Jiffy cornbread with honey butter
• Peach cobbler or apple crisp for dessert

These options balance the savory main dish and help round out a hearty menu.

🥤 Bonus: What to Drink With It

• Iced tea (sweetened or unsweetened, depending on your region!)
• Chardonnay or a lightly oaked white wine if you’re going upscale
• Sparkling water with lemon for a fresh palate cleanse

Pairing your Paula Deen Chicken Divan with broccoli with the right sides turns this creamy casserole into a complete comfort meal, one that’s equally at home on a busy Tuesday or your next family gathering.

🟣 Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the best things about this Paula Deen-inspired Chicken Divan is how well it holds up for leftovers. Whether you’re meal prepping or saving some for later, here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat this creamy casserole without losing that rich flavor or texture.

🧊 How to Store Leftovers (Refrigerator)

• Let the casserole cool completely before storing.
• Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil, or transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Keep leftovers chilled in the fridge and enjoy within four days for best freshness.

Tip: If possible, store the cracker topping separately so it stays crisp when reheated.

❄️ How to Freeze Chicken Divan

This dish is freezer-friendly, whether you freeze it before or after baking.

➤ To freeze before baking:

1. Assemble the casserole fully, but leave off the cracker topping.
2. Cover securely using both plastic wrap and a layer of foil to lock in freshness and prevent freezer burn.
3. Add a date label before freezing, and use within three months for the best flavor and texture.
4. When ready to bake, add the topping and bake from frozen at 350°F, adding 15–20 minutes to the bake time.

➤ To freeze after baking:

1. Let the dish cool completely.
2. Portion into airtight containers or wrap the entire casserole.
3. Freeze for up to 2–3 months.
4. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

🔥 How to Reheat Chicken Divan

For best results, reheat in the oven to bring back that fresh-baked texture.

➤ Oven Reheating (Best Method):

• Preheat oven to 350°F.
• Cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying out.
• Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until heated through.

➤ Microwave Reheating (Quickest):

• Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish.
• Cover loosely and microwave on medium-high for 1–2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds.

Tip: Add a splash of milk or cream before reheating to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.

Whether you’re saving it for tomorrow or next month, this cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole handles leftovers like a pro, just another reason it’s a keeper in any kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

🟡 Final Thoughts on Paula Deen Chicken Divan with Broccoli

If you’re looking for a meal that delivers creamy comfort, Southern flavor, and weeknight ease, this Paula Deen-inspired Chicken Divan with broccoli checks every box. From its cheesy, golden topping to the tender chicken and fresh broccoli underneath, it’s the kind of dish that brings people together, around the dinner table, at a potluck, or on a cozy Sunday night.

What makes this casserole so special isn’t just its rich flavor, it’s the flexibility, the familiarity, and the little indulgent touches that give it that signature Paula Deen charm.

So whether you’re making it for the first time or coming back to it as a family favorite, this version of Chicken Divan is one you’ll turn to again and again.

🍽️ Craving More Southern Comfort Classics?

If you loved this Paula Deen Chicken Divan with broccoli, you’ll definitely want to check out more of our reader-favorite comfort food recipes:

• 👉 Original Chicken Divan Recipe – Try the traditional version that started it all.
• 👉 Cattle Drive Casserole Recipe – A hearty, cheesy ground beef casserole packed with Tex-Mex flavor.
• 👉 Cracker Barrel Corn Casserole – Sweet, savory, and the perfect Southern side.
• 👉 Bruce’s Yams Sweet Potato Casserole – A holiday-worthy side dish that tastes like dessert.
• 👉 Green Bean Casserole Without Mushroom Soup – A fresh take on the classic that’s perfect for mushroom-free homes.

Whether you’re hosting, meal prepping, or just need something warm and satisfying, there’s plenty more Southern goodness to explore.

➡️ Visit the full recipe collection on the Deen Recipes Blog