Broccoli Chicken Divan Delight is a comforting classic with a modern twist. It's a one-pan wonder that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy sauce topped with a crunchy, cheesy crust. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish is all about hearty flavors and simple preparation.
Chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly, making them ideal for this dish. They're the protein backbone here.
Broccoli florets add color, nutrition, and a slight crunch after blanching, balancing the richness of the sauce.
Sharp cheddar cheese gives a tangy, robust flavor that cuts through the creamy sauce, adding depth.
Sour cream and mayonnaise create a luxurious, creamy base for the sauce, each contributing a distinct tanginess and richness.
Chicken broth thins the sauce just enough to coat everything without being too heavy, carrying the flavors through the dish.
Lemon juice brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness of the sauce.
Garlic powder and onion powder add aromatic depth without overwhelming the other flavors.
Black pepper gives a gentle heat and balances the creaminess.
Breadcrumbs combine with butter and Parmesan cheese to create a golden, crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For an extra touch, sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives on top before serving to add a pop of color and flavor.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it's hot and ready when your dish is assembled and ready to bake.
Next, quickly blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for about 3 minutes. This keeps them vibrant and slightly tender. Drain them well and set aside.
In a large bowl, mix the sour cream, mayonnaise, chicken broth, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined to form a smooth sauce.
Add the cubed chicken and blanched broccoli to your sauce. Toss everything until the chicken and broccoli are well coated. This ensures every bite is flavorful.
Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This helps it bake uniformly.
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the chicken and broccoli for that irresistible crunch.
Top it all off with the shredded cheddar cheese. This melts to form a bubbly, golden topping.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the chicken is fully cooked.
Let it cool slightly before serving. This makes it easier to serve and allows the flavors to settle.
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