Introduction: Why Easy Campbell Soup Chicken Divan Recipe is a Timeless Family Favorite
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes deliver like Campbell Soup Chicken Divan Recipe. Creamy, cheesy, and layered with tender chicken and fresh broccoli, it’s a casserole that has stood the test of time. Originally popularized in mid-20th century America, this dish is still loved today for its simplicity and flavor. With the help of pantry staples like Campbell’s soups, it has become one of the most reliable Campbell’s recipes for weeknight dinners. Whether you’re using leftover or recipes with boiled chicken, this classic casserole is always a winner. If you enjoy timeless classics, you may also love this hearty short rib chili recipe.
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What is Chicken Divan? Origins of This Campbell Soup Chicken Divan Recipe
Chicken divan originated at New York’s Divan Parisien Restaurant in the early 1900s, where it was served as an elegant chicken and broccoli casserole. Over time, Campbell’s introduced their own Campbell soup recipes that made it easier for home cooks to recreate the dish. The traditional recipe used béchamel sauce, but Campbell’s simplified it with cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken soup. Today, it’s also known as chicken devon, chicken divine recipe, or even chicken devan depending on family traditions. For another family-style comfort food, try this creamy chicken and dumpling pot pie.
Key Ingredients for Campbell Soup Chicken Divan Recipe
This recipe combines simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen:
- 4 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed (about 600 g) – great for recipes with boiled chicken
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 450 g), steamed
- 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup (or Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon curry powder (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (100 g)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (50 g)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Salt and black pepper to taste
This version of chicken divan with cream of mushroom soup is both creamy and flavorful, perfect for a family-friendly dinner. If you enjoy chicken casseroles, check out this easy creamy chicken pot pie.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Campbell Soup Chicken Divan Recipe
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare broccoli: Steam or blanch broccoli florets until just tender. Drain and set aside.
- Mix sauce: In a bowl, combine Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, curry powder, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth.
- Assemble casserole: Place cooked chicken in the baking dish. Layer broccoli on top, then pour the creamy sauce evenly over everything.
- Top with breadcrumbs: Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole. Add remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
This method shows how to make chicken divan easily using Campbell’s classic pantry staples. For another comforting chicken bake, you might enjoy this turkey and sweet potato bake.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Campbell Soup Chicken Divan Recipe
To prepare this dish, you’ll need:
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large pot for steaming broccoli
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven mitts
These basics are all you need to make Campbells cream of chicken soup recipes and other comfort casseroles.
Tips for Perfecting Campbell Soup Chicken Divan Recipe
- Don’t overcook broccoli: Keep it slightly crisp to avoid mushiness after baking.
- Add layers of cheese: Mixing some into the sauce and sprinkling more on top gives extra flavor.
- Customize flavor: Try curry powder, garlic powder, or paprika for depth.
- Use fresh chicken: While rotisserie chicken works, recipes with boiled chicken ensure tender chunks that soak up the sauce.
- Bake uncovered: This keeps the topping crispy and golden.
If you love cheesy casseroles, you should also try these cheesy mashed potato puffs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Campbell Soup Chicken Divan Recipe
- Dry chicken: Avoid over-boiling chicken; simmer gently until just cooked.
- Watery casserole: Drain broccoli well before layering to prevent excess moisture.
- Skipping the topping: Breadcrumbs and cheese give crunch and richness; don’t skip them.
- Uneven layering: Spread sauce evenly so each bite has balanced flavor.
Variations: Chicken Devon and Other Tasty Twists
- Chicken Devon: A lighter version with extra broccoli and less cheese.
- Chicken Devan: Often includes rice as a base layer for a complete meal.
- Spicy twist: Add chili flakes or jalapeños to the sauce.
- Healthier option: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Gluten-free: Swap breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko.
For another satisfying baked dish, try these stuffed bell peppers.
Healthy Swaps for Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup Recipes
If you want a lighter version of Campbells cream of chicken soup recipes, try these swaps:
- Use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
- Replace sour cream with cottage cheese blended until smooth.
- Add more steamed vegetables like cauliflower or zucchini for bulk.
- Choose low-fat cheese.
If you’re looking for more light sides, this fresh Mediterranean Greek salad pairs beautifully with chicken casseroles.
Serving Suggestions for Easy Chicken Divan
This casserole is hearty enough on its own, but here are some sides that work beautifully:
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the sauce
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Roasted vegetables for extra nutrition
For a lighter starter, you might pair this dish with roasted carrots.
Storing and Reheating Chicken Divan Properly
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through. For single servings, use the microwave.
For another great make-ahead meal, check out these salisbury steak meatballs.
What to Serve With Campbell Soup Chicken Divan Recipe
Pair this dish with:
- A fresh garden salad
- Roasted asparagus or green beans
- A side of rice pilaf
- Light soups like this baked potato soup
These pairings keep your chicken devan meal balanced and satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Chicken Divan
Can I use Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup instead of mushroom?
Yes! Both versions are delicious. It’s one of the most popular Campbells cream of chicken soup recipes.
Can I make chicken divan ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it in advance, refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
Is chicken divan the same as chicken devon?
Yes, the names differ regionally but refer to the same classic casserole.
Can I make it without mayonnaise?
Yes, replace mayonnaise with extra sour cream or Greek yogurt.
What’s the best chicken for this dish?
Both leftover roasted chicken and recipes with boiled chicken work well.
If you want another kid-friendly recipe, try these banana oatmeal breakfast cookies for a sweet finish.
Conclusion: Why This Chicken Divan Recipe Belongs on Your Table
This easy chicken divan recipe is the definition of timeless comfort food. With tender broccoli, juicy chicken, and a creamy Campbell’s soup sauce, it’s a dish that generations have loved. Whether you call it chicken devon, chicken divine recipe, or simply a family casserole, it’s hearty, simple, and endlessly adaptable. By learning how to make chicken divan with cream of mushroom soup, you’ll always have a go-to meal that brings smiles to the table.
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Easy Chicken Divan Recipe With Campbell’s Soup
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Easy Chicken Divan is a timeless casserole made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy Campbell’s soup-based sauce. Topped with breadcrumbs and cheese, this comforting dish is simple, delicious, and perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed (about 600 g)
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 450 g), steamed
- 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup (or Cream of Chicken Soup)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon curry powder (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (100 g)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (50 g)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat to 190°C (375°F). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Steam Broccoli: Steam or blanch broccoli until just tender. Drain well.
- Make Sauce: Mix Campbell’s soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, curry powder, and half the cheddar cheese until smooth.
- Assemble: Place cooked chicken in baking dish, top with broccoli, then pour sauce evenly over.
- Top: Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top. Add remaining cheddar.
- Bake: Bake uncovered 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Do not overcook broccoli; it should stay slightly crisp.
- Drain broccoli well to avoid a watery casserole.
- Mix some cheese into the sauce and save some for the topping for maximum flavor.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.
- Unbaked casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg