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Scratch-Made Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole

A close-up slice of creamy Chicken Divan casserole featuring pasta, chicken, broccoli florets, and a bubbly, browned cheddar cheese topping.
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Make this classic Chicken Divan Casserole using a homemade Mornay sauce for rich, comforting flavor. This baked dish combines tender chicken and broccoli for a satisfying family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, lightly steamed
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds or breadcrumbs for topping
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Mornay Sauce:
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk, warmed
  • 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Prepare the sauce: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in the warm milk until the mixture is smooth. Continue cooking, stirring often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  4. Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the dry mustard, nutmeg, Worcestershire sauce, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. This is your homemade Mornay sauce.
  5. In a large bowl, gently combine the shredded chicken and lightly steamed broccoli florets. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and broccoli mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
  7. Sprinkle the top evenly with sliced almonds or breadcrumbs.
  8. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
  9. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve hot, perhaps over rice or with crusty bread.

Notes

  • For quicker preparation, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
  • Steaming the broccoli until it is just tender-crisp prevents it from becoming mushy during baking.
  • If you prefer a tangier flavor, substitute half of the cheddar cheese with Gruyère.
  • You can prepare the entire casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 10 minutes to the baking time if cooking directly from the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookincorner.com/chicken-divan-casserole-recipe/