Chicken Divan: A Creamy, Classic Comfort Food with a Sherry Parmesan Twist
Chicken Divan, a beloved dish featuring tender chicken, creamy sauce, and broccoli, is a timeless classic. This recipe elevates the traditional dish with a sophisticated sherry parmesan sauce, adding a layer of rich, nutty flavor that complements the creamy texture perfectly. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this refined take on a comfort food favorite!
What is Chicken Divan?
Chicken Divan is a casserole-style dish typically featuring cooked chicken breast, steamed broccoli florets, and a creamy sauce, often made with a cheese sauce base. It's typically baked until bubbly and golden brown, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. Our enhanced recipe introduces a sherry parmesan sauce, adding depth and complexity to the classic flavor profile.
Ingredients for our Sherry Parmesan Chicken Divan:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and cut into bite-sized pieces (roasting, grilling, or poaching are all excellent methods)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sherry Parmesan Sauce:
- 1/2 cup dry sherry (a medium-bodied sherry like Amontillado works well)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Gruyere cheese (optional, adds a lovely nutty flavor)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Broccoli:
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping (optional):
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions:
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Prepare the Broccoli: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Toss with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
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Sauté the Chicken (if using raw chicken): If you're starting with raw chicken breasts, heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
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Make the Sherry Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet (or a separate saucepan), add the flour and whisk until smooth. Gradually whisk in the dry sherry, ensuring no lumps form. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce slightly thickens. Reduce heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Gruyere (if using), and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.
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Assemble the Divan: In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked broccoli, followed by the chicken, and then the remaining broccoli. Pour the sherry parmesan sauce evenly over the top.
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Bake (optional topping): If using a breadcrumb topping, combine breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. If you skip the topping, bake for 15-20 minutes.
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Serve: Let the Chicken Divan rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What kind of sherry is best for Chicken Divan? A medium-bodied sherry like Amontillado or a dry fino will work well. Avoid overly sweet sherries.
Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding it to the dish.
Can I make this ahead of time? You can assemble the Chicken Divan ahead of time and bake it just before serving. However, avoid adding the breadcrumb topping until right before baking to prevent it from getting soggy.
What other cheeses can I use? You can experiment with different cheeses. Asiago, Fontina, or even a sharp cheddar would be delicious substitutions or additions.
Can I use leftover cooked chicken? Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is a great way to save time and reduce food waste.
This enhanced Chicken Divan recipe provides a delicious and sophisticated twist on a classic comfort food. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with the added depth of sherry and Parmesan!
