When you think of comfort food that’s easy to make and feels special, Chicken Divan with Sherry and Parmesan is the perfect dish. This classic casserole is loved for its creamy sauce, rich flavors, and a great mix of fresh ingredients. It’s made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy sauce filled with Parmesan cheese and a touch of sherry. On top, it has a golden, crispy layer that makes every bite even more delicious.

Chicken Divan was first made in the 1950s at a New York City restaurant called Divan Parisien. At the time, it was served as a fancy dish. Over the years, it has become a popular homemade meal because it’s easy to make and can be adjusted to fit different tastes. Whether you’re having a family dinner, planning ahead for a busy night, or just want a warm and filling meal, this recipe is a great choice.

One of the best things about this dish is how flexible it is. You can use your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or even other proteins to make it your own. It’s also perfect for busy days since you can use pre cooked chicken or frozen broccoli. Plus, it freezes well, so you can make it ahead and bake it whenever you need a quick meal.

This Chicken Divan Recipe with Sherry and Parmesan is more than just food—it’s a dish that brings people together. The creamy sauce and cheesy topping make it hard to resist. Whether you’re an experienced cook or trying something new, this casserole is sure to become one of your favorites. Let’s get started on this delicious recipe!

Recipe Overview

The Chicken Divan Recipe with Sherry and Parmesan is a simple yet flavorful casserole that adds a touch of elegance to any meal. By combining tender chicken and fresh broccoli with a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish creates a satisfying balance of richness and freshness. Furthermore, the addition of sherry elevates the flavor, giving the casserole a subtle complexity that truly sets it apart from other comfort foods.

This recipe works wonderfully for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even special occasions. In addition, its make ahead potential and freezer friendly design make it a versatile dish that easily adapts to your schedule. Whether you choose to use freshly cooked chicken and blanched broccoli or opt for store bought rotisserie chicken and frozen florets, the results are always consistently delicious.

What makes this dish even more special is its ability to be customized. For instance, you can swap vegetables like cauliflower or spinach to suit your preferences. Additionally, experimenting with different cheeses opens up endless possibilities for new flavors. On top of that, the crispy breadcrumb topping adds both texture and visual appeal, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

With straightforward steps, readily available ingredients, and minimal prep time, the Chicken Divan Recipe with Sherry and Parmesan is a perfect blend of convenience and indulgence. Moreover, it offers a meal that’s not only easy to make but also delightful to eat.

Ingredients

Below is a breakdown of the essential ingredients needed to make this casserole, along with substitutions and optional add-ons to suit your preferences.

Ingredient	Purpose	Substitution/Notes
Cooked Chicken	Forms the protein base. Adds heartiness.	Use rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken for convenience.
Broccoli Florets	Provides freshness and balance to the creamy sauce.	Swap with cauliflower, green beans, or spinach.
Butter	Forms the roux for the creamy sauce.	Margarine or plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
All-Purpose Flour	Thickens the sauce.	Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Chicken Broth	Adds savory depth to the sauce.	Substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Sherry	Elevates the flavor with subtle sweetness.	Replace with white wine or chicken broth for a milder taste.
Heavy Cream	Adds richness and a silky texture.	Half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter option.
Mayonnaise	Contributes tanginess and creaminess.	Use Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.
Parmesan Cheese	Provides nutty, umami richness.	Swap with cheddar, Gruyere, or mozzarella for different flavors.
Breadcrumbs (Optional)	Creates a golden, crispy topping.	Panko or crushed crackers work well as substitutes.
Seasonings	Worcestershire sauce, nutmeg, salt, and pepper enhance flavor complexity.	Adjust to taste or add hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Equipment Needed

• Medium Saucepan: For preparing the creamy sauce.
• Large Mixing Bowl: To combine and layer ingredients.
• Greased Baking Dish: For assembling and baking the casserole.
• Whisk: Essential for achieving a smooth sauce.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurements.
• Oven: Preheated to 350°F for even baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Chicken Divan

Making the Chicken Divan Recipe with Sherry and Parmesan is a straightforward process. With these detailed instructions, you’ll achieve a perfectly creamy, flavorful casserole every time. Follow each step carefully for the best results.

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Broccoli serves as the essential vegetable base for this dish, adding both freshness and a vibrant pop of color that perfectly complements the creamy sauce. Moreover, its mild flavor and slightly crisp texture balance the richness of the other ingredients, creating a harmonious blend of tastes. Proper preparation is crucial to ensure the broccoli retains its crisp tender texture, enhancing the overall quality of the casserole. By taking the time to prepare the broccoli correctly, you’ll not only preserve its bright green hue but also achieve the ideal consistency that holds up well during baking.

1. Blanch the Broccoli:
   • Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil.
   • Add 4 cups of broccoli florets and cook for 2–3 minutes until they turn bright green.
   • Immediately transfer the broccoli to an ice bath (a bowl of ice water) to halt the cooking process.
2. Drain and Dry:
   • Remove the broccoli from the ice bath and drain well.
   • Pat the florets dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to prevent excess moisture from watering down the sauce.

Tip: If using frozen broccoli, thaw completely and pat dry to remove any moisture.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Tender, shredded chicken is the star protein in this dish. Using pre-cooked chicken speeds up the process.

1. Choose Your Chicken:
   • Use 3 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
   • Alternatively, cook 2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts in salted boiling water for 12–15 minutes until fully cooked.
2. Shred or Dice:
   • Once cooled, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
   • Dicing is also an option if you prefer chunks of chicken in the casserole.

Pro Tip: Leftover roasted chicken or turkey works just as well and helps reduce food waste.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sherry-Parmesan Sauce

The sauce is the heart of this casserole, binding all the ingredients with its luscious, flavorful base.

1. Prepare a Roux:
   • Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
   • Whisk in 1/4 cup of all purpose flour, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes. This step cooks out the raw flour taste while forming the base for the sauce.
2. Add Liquid Ingredients:
   • Slowly pour in 1 cup of chicken broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
   • Add 1/2 cup of sherry and whisk until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Incorporate Dairy:
   • Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of mayonnaise for richness and a velvety texture.
4. Season the Sauce:
   • Add 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, a pinch of nutmeg, and salt and pepper to taste.
   • Mix in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Tip: Adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you prefer a sharper cheese flavor, add an extra 1/4 cup of Parmesan.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Once the components are ready, it’s time to bring everything together in a baking dish.

1. Grease the Baking Dish:
   • Use butter or non stick spray to lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Layer the Ingredients:
   • Spread the blanched broccoli evenly across the bottom of the dish.
   • Layer the shredded chicken on top of the broccoli.
3. Pour the Sauce:
   • Carefully pour the creamy sherry-Parmesan sauce over the chicken and broccoli, ensuring all the ingredients are thoroughly covered. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
4. Add Toppings (Optional):
   • Sprinkle breadcrumbs, additional Parmesan cheese, or sliced almonds on top for added texture and flavor.
   • For a buttery crust, toss breadcrumbs with melted butter before sprinkling.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

The oven does the final work, bringing the casserole to bubbling, golden perfection.

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake:
   • Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
3. Broil (Optional):
   • For a crispy, golden topping, turn on the broiler for the last 2–3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Step 6: Let it Rest and Serve

Before serving, allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes to let the flavors meld and the layers set.

1. Cooling Period:
   • Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest on the countertop for 5 minutes.
2. Serving Suggestions:
   • Serve the Chicken Divan hot with a side of fluffy white rice, buttered noodles, or crusty bread.
   • Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a well rounded meal.

Tips for an Easy Chicken Divan Recipe

Double the Batch for Freezing: Chicken Divan is freezer-friendly. Prepare two casseroles—one to bake now and one to freeze for later.

Save Time with Pre-Cooked Ingredients: Using rotisserie chicken and frozen broccoli can significantly reduce prep time without compromising on taste. Ensure the broccoli is thawed and patted dry to prevent excess water in the casserole.

Enhance Flavor with Fresh Seasonings: A splash of fresh lemon juice or a pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the dish, balancing the richness of the sauce. Adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme also brings brightness to the casserole.

Customize the Dish: Don’t hesitate to swap out broccoli for other vegetables like cauliflower, green beans, or spinach. Experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or Gruyere, for unique flavor profiles.

Perfect the Sauce: Whisk constantly when making the roux to avoid lumps. Gradually adding the liquid while whisking ensures a smooth and creamy consistency.

Achieve a Crispy Topping: Toss breadcrumbs with melted butter or olive oil before sprinkling them over the casserole for a golden, crunchy finish.

Prepare Ahead: Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld and reduces last-minute stress.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the casserole is completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
• Freezing: Assemble the casserole without baking, wrap it tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as usual.
• Reheating: For optimal results, reheat the casserole in a preheated 325°F oven until it is thoroughly heated. Cover the dish with foil during reheating to prevent the topping from burning while keeping the casserole moist. Alternatively, for quicker reheating, microwave individual portions on medium power. Be sure to stir occasionally to promote even heating and maintain the creamy consistency of the sauce.

Nutritional Information

The following nutritional breakdown is an estimate based on standard ingredients used in the Chicken Divan Recipe with Sherry and Parmesan:

This casserole is rich in protein and healthy fats, making it a hearty and filling meal that’s perfect for satisfying appetites. However, if you’re looking to create a lighter version, you can easily make a few substitutions without sacrificing flavor. For instance, replacing mayonnaise with Greek yogurt provides a creamy texture with fewer calories and added protein. Similarly, using half and half instead of heavy cream can reduce the fat content while still delivering a silky sauce.

Additionally, this dish can be adapted for gluten sensitive diets by opting for gluten free breadcrumbs and flour. These adjustments ensure the casserole remains just as delicious while accommodating different dietary needs. With these modifications, you can enjoy a healthier and more inclusive version of this comforting classic.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well. Be sure to thaw and dry it thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from diluting the sauce.

Q: Is there a substitute for sherry?
A: Yes, you can replace sherry with white wine for a similar flavor. If avoiding alcohol, chicken broth is an excellent substitute.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Certainly! Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or chickpeas. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.

Q: How can I make this casserole gluten free?
A: Use gluten-free flour for the roux and gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping. Double-check that your broth is also gluten-free.

Q: Can I assemble this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, the casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Q: How do I achieve a crispy topping?
A: Toss breadcrumbs with melted butter or olive oil before sprinkling over the casserole. Broil the dish for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking for an extra-crispy finish.

Conclusion

The Chicken Divan Recipe with Sherry and Parmesan is the ultimate comforting, versatile, and crowd pleasing dish that effortlessly brings a touch of elegance to the dinner table. Its velvety creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli come together harmoniously to create a meal that is both hearty and refined. Whether you’re hosting a special family gathering, preparing a quick yet satisfying weeknight dinner, or simply savoring leftovers, this casserole is a guaranteed success every single time.

By taking advantage of the tips, serving suggestions, and storage methods provided, you can truly elevate this classic dish to its fullest potential. It’s a recipe that’s easy to make yet rich in flavor, offering the perfect balance of practicality and indulgence. So, go ahead—gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a timeless dish that brings warmth, comfort, and delicious flavor to any occasion.

For another delicious recipe, explore this Chicken Divan Recipe Sherry Parmesan: A Classic Twist on Comfort Food