Broccoli Chicken Divan: A Delicious and Healthy Dish for the Whole Family
Are you tired of making the same old chicken dishes for dinner? Looking for a way to incorporate more vegetables into your familyโs meals? Look no further than Broccoli Chicken Divan! This mouthwatering dish is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. In this article, we will explore the wonders of Broccoli Chicken Divan, its health benefits, and how to make it from scratch.
The Power of Broccoli
Broccoli is often referred to as a nutritional powerhouse, and for good reason. This green cruciferous vegetable is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote overall health. Itโs a great source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate, which play vital roles in boosting the immune system, supporting bone health, and aiding in cell division.
Moreover, broccoli is rich in fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. It also contains sulforaphane, a compound with powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Including broccoli in your diet can improve heart health, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and support brain function.
The Perfect Marriage: Chicken and Broccoli
Chicken is a versatile protein that pairs well with various ingredients, but it forms a particularly delightful union with broccoli. The tender and juicy chicken complements the earthy flavor of broccoli, creating a harmonious blend of tastes and textures.
Not only does this combination taste amazing, but it also offers a well-balanced meal. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, providing essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair. It is also low in fat and calories, making it a healthier alternative to red meat.
With the addition of broccoli, this dish becomes even more nutritious. The vibrant green florets add vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the mix, elevating the overall nutritional value of the meal.
How to Make Broccoli Chicken Divan
Making Broccoli Chicken Divan is easier than you might think. To begin, gather the following ingredients:
- Chicken breast
- Fresh broccoli
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Cheddar cheese
- Breadcrumbs
- Butter
- Salt and pepper
Preheat your oven and cook the chicken until itโs tender and fully cooked. Then, steam the broccoli until itโs crisp-tender. In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with some cheddar cheese and seasonings.
Next, arrange the cooked chicken and steamed broccoli in a baking dish. Pour the creamy mixture over the top, making sure everything is evenly coated. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and a touch of melted butter for that irresistible golden crust.
Pop the dish in the oven and let it bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs turn golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen will be absolutely tantalizing!
Frequently Asked Questions About Broccoli Chicken Divan
1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli if you donโt have fresh on hand. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using it in the recipe.
2. Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup with another type of soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cream soups like cream of chicken or cream of broccoli to give the dish a unique twist.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese that melts well. Try using Swiss, Gruyere, or Monterey Jack for a delicious variation.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until youโre ready to bake. Just make sure to increase the baking time slightly to ensure everything is heated through.
5. Can I make Broccoli Chicken Divan gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
6. Can I add extra vegetables to the dish?
Of course! Feel free to add other vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or peas to make the dish even more nutritious and colorful.
7. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
8. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Definitely! Broccoli Chicken Divan freezes well. Simply store the leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. When youโre ready to enjoy it again, just thaw and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Now that you have all the information you need, itโs time to gather your ingredients and start making this delectable Broccoli Chicken Divan. Your taste buds and your body will thank you for it!
In Conclusion
Broccoli Chicken Divan is a dish that brings together the best of both worlds: the nutritional powerhouse that is broccoli and the versatile protein that is chicken. This flavorful combination not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides essential nutrients for your body.
By incorporating this dish into your meal rotation, you can enjoy the health benefits of broccoli while indulging in a delicious and wholesome meal. Whether youโre cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, Broccoli Chicken Divan is sure to impress.
So, why not give it a try? Your family will love the flavors, and youโll love knowing that youโre serving them a dish that is both tasty and nutritious.
Broccoli Chicken Divan
Ingredientsย ย
- 1 lb of freshly chopped broccoli
- 1 ยฝ cups of cooked chicken , cubed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of broccoli soup
- โ cup of milk
- ยฝ cup of shredded Cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons of dried bread crumbs
- 1 tablespoon of melted butter
Instructionsย
- Looking for a satisfying chicken casserole that can be made with pantry staples? We have a delicious recipe for you! This cheesy bake has received numerous 5-star reviews and is called Broccoli Chicken Divan. It is a classic dish that combines leftover chicken with cream soup, butter, breadcrumbs, and cheese. The addition of broccoli adds a vibrant color and fresh flavor to the casserole. The name Divan comes from the Divan Parisien Restaurant, where this dish was created in the early 20th century. To make this top-rated recipe, follow these steps:
- Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C).
- In a saucepan, steam the broccoli until tender for about 5 minutes. Drain the broccoli.
- Place the cooked broccoli in a 9-inch pie plate.
- Add the chicken on top of the broccoli.
- In a bowl, mix the cream soup and milk together. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
- Sprinkle Cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- In a separate bowl, combine melted butter and bread crumbs. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese.
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes, or until it becomes bubbly and the top turns golden brown.
- Once cooked, allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.
- Broccoli Chicken Divan pairs well with various side dishes