Can I use rotisserie chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken saves even more time and adds great flavor. Just shred or dice it before adding on top of the broccoli.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead. Store it, covered, in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Frozen broccoli works well—just thaw and drain it thoroughly before using so the casserole doesn’t become watery.

What if I don’t have cream of broccoli soup?

No worries! Cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup works just as well and will complement the other flavors beautifully.

Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe

Name: Broccoli Chicken Divan Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh broccoli, chopped; 1 1/2 cups cubed cooked chicken; 1 can cream of broccoli soup; 1/3 cup milk; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tablespoon butter, melted; 2 tablespoons bread crumbs

If you’re searching for a weeknight meal that delivers on both comfort and convenience, look no further than this Broccoli Chicken Divan. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender chicken and crisp broccoli, this beloved classic comes together in a flash—and tastes like a cozy hug in casserole form. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you’re only 30 minutes away from a bubbling, golden-topped bake that guarantees smiles around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Speedy and Simple: Get dinner on the table in under half an hour, with no complicated steps and minimal cleanup.
Perfectly Balanced Flavors: Creamy soup, savory chicken, sharp cheddar, and buttery breadcrumbs all in one bite.
Family Favorite: It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s kid-approved, but still sophisticated enough to please adults.
Flexible and Forgiving: Great for making use of leftover chicken or whatever veggies you have around.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to create this comforting casserole, plus a few tips to help you get the best results:

Cream of Broccoli Soup: Acts as the creamy, savory base. You can swap for cream of chicken or mushroom if you’d like a change.
Cooked Chicken: Use cubed or shredded chicken for heartiness. Leftover rotisserie chicken is a winner here for speed and flavor.
Milk: Loosens and enriches the sauce just enough. Whole, 2%, or even non-dairy milk works in a pinch.
Fresh Broccoli: Adds crunch and color. Steam just until crisp-tender to avoid sogginess. Frozen broccoli works, too—just thaw and drain it well.
Butter: Gives the breadcrumbs their irresistible golden crust. If you’re watching calories, swap with olive oil.
Breadcrumbs: Adds a satisfying crunch on top. Panko or even crushed crackers can make things extra crispy.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: The creamy, melty goodness that ties everything together. Sharp cheddar adds the most depth, but use your favorite variety.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

This recipe is a great starting point—there are so many ways to make it your own:

Swap the Soup: Try cream of mushroom or cream of chicken for a different flavor base.
Add Rice: Stir in cooked rice or quinoa for a heartier dish.
Extra Veggies: Mix in peas, mushrooms, or bell peppers for color and nutrients.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and soup if needed.
Lighter Version: Use light cheese and a reduced-fat soup for a lighter take.
Different Cheese: Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a bit of blue cheese can completely change the flavor profile.

How to Make Broccoli Chicken Divan

Here’s how to get this comforting casserole on your dinner table, step by step:

Step 1: Heat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F so you’re ready to bake as soon as everything is assembled.

Step 2: Steam the Broccoli

Quickly steam or boil the fresh broccoli until just tender—bright green with a slight bite is perfect. Drain thoroughly.

Step 3: Layer the Broccoli and Chicken

Spread the broccoli evenly in a well-greased 9-inch pie dish or casserole pan. Scatter the cooked chicken evenly over the top.

Step 4: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, stir together the cream of broccoli soup and milk until well combined and smooth. Pour this creamy mixture over the chicken and broccoli, making sure to cover as much as possible.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top for that gooey, melty finish.

Step 6: Make the Crunchy Topping

Mix the melted butter and breadcrumbs together, then sprinkle over the casserole for a toasty, golden crown.

Step 7: Bake

Bake uncovered for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the topping is crisp and golden.

Step 8: Serve

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving to help everything set. Dig in and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Slightly under-steam the broccoli so it finishes cooking to perfection in the oven, keeping its color and texture.
Uniform Chicken Pieces: Cut the chicken into even cubes or shred it so every bite has a bit of everything.
Crispier Topping: For an extra-crunchy finish, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end—just keep an eye on it!
Use Fresh Cheese: Grate your own cheddar for the best melt and flavor—pre-shredded cheese doesn’t always melt as smoothly.

How to Serve

Broccoli Chicken Divan truly shines as the centerpiece of a cozy meal. Pair it with a simple green salad or a crisp apple slaw to add freshness and balance the richness. Some families love it with a scoop of rice, noodles, or even inside a baked potato for maximum comfort. Want the full comfort food experience? Serve with crusty bread to mop up every delicious drop of sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers fresh by transferring them to an airtight container and storing in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors get even better as they sit!

Freezing

Broccoli Chicken Divan freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze before baking, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or, for the full-pan, in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbling. Add a splash of milk if the sauce looks a little thick.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken saves even more time and adds great flavor. Just shred or dice it before adding on top of the broccoli.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead. Store it, covered, in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Can I use frozen broccoli?

Frozen broccoli works well—just thaw and drain it thoroughly before using so the casserole doesn’t become watery.
What if I don’t have cream of broccoli soup?

No worries! Cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup works just as well and will complement the other flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Broccoli Chicken Divan is a weeknight wonder—fast, fuss-free, and full of creamy, cheesy comfort. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just looking for a satisfying meal with easy clean-up, this casserole won’t let you down. Don’t be afraid to make it your own with extras or substitutions. It’s all about enjoying great food without the stress. Give it a try tonight; you’ll be glad you did!