Chicken Divan with Mayo

Simple, cozy casseroles are a family go-to, and chicken Divan with mayo is an old-school favorite. Chef Anthony Lagasi created the original chicken Divan in the 1940s at Divan Parisien in New York City’s (sadly defunct) Chatham Hotel. No one knows his inspiration, but the layered classic casserole made with tender chicken, broccoli, cheese and a homemade bechamel-style cream sauce has been a winner ever since.

While most recipes still call for a from-scratch sauce, chicken Divan with mayo uses convenience ingredients like condensed soup and frozen veggies for a quick weeknight dinner that appeals to the whole family. Unlike some vintage recipes, this one has never gone out of fashion.

Ingredients for Chicken Divan with Mayo

• Frozen broccoli florets or fresh broccoli: Frozen broccoli makes this quick casserole even speedier, but you can also use fresh broccoli florets chopped into bite-sized pieces instead.
• Condensed cream of chicken soup: We love using condensed soup in casseroles because it’s a shortcut to a rich, flavorful sauce. The texture is stable, creamy and thick, and it won’t curdle or split in the oven.
• Mayonnaise: Tangy mayonnaise adds zip to the cream sauce. Everyone has their favorite mayo brand, and any of them will do.
• Lemon juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon adds acid that brightens the rich dish.
• Cooked cubed chicken: This is a great way to use leftover chicken, like the pickings from last night’s rotisserie bird. You can also cook chicken breasts (baking or poaching are the quickest methods).
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese melts easily and adds a nice bite. Grate it from the block for better texture and flavor.
• Bread crumbs and melted butter: A cap of crispy bread crumbs tops the creamy, cheesy casserole. The butter makes it golden brown.
• Pimientos: Pimientos add a crunchy, fresh texture and sweet flavor.

Directions

Step 1: Cook the broccoli

Preheat the oven to 325°F. In a large saucepan, cook the broccoli in boiling water for 1 minute. Drain it well and set it aside.

Editor’s Tip: Whether fresh or frozen, briefly cooking broccoli first gives it a head start for when the casserole bakes in the oven.

Step 2: Make the filling

In a large bowl, combine the condensed soup, mayonnaise and lemon juice. Add the broccoli and chicken to the sauce. Gently stir to combine.

Step 3: Assemble the casserole

Transfer the chicken mixture to a greased 11×7-inch baking dish. Sprinkle it with cheese. In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and butter. Sprinkle the buttery crumbs over the top.

Step 4: Bake

Bake the casserole, uncovered, until it’s bubbly and golden brown, about 30 minutes. Let it stand for 10 minutes before serving it. If desired, garnish with pimientos.

Editor’s Tip: Letting the casserole rest thickens the sauce, so it’s not too runny when you dig in.

Chicken Divan with Mayo Variations

• Spice it up: While the base recipe is rich and savory, it’s also a great launching point for more flavors. Try curry powder, cayenne pepper, cumin, smoked paprika or Mexican seasoning.
• Change up the crispy topping: Bread crumb alternatives abound. Try crushed cornflakes, crumbled crackers or panko. You could also top the casserole with French-fried onions.
• Try another veggie: While broccoli’s assertive bite adds great texture here, you can use cooked, chopped frozen spinach, diced bell peppers, cauliflower or canned mushrooms instead.
• Add noodles: Want to give the casserole even more heft? Add cooked, drained pasta noodles to the casserole with the chicken and broccoli. Short shapes like fusilli or penne stir in easily.
• Trade cheeses: Any meltable cheese will work here. For mild flavor, try Swiss; if you want extra kick, go with pepper jack.

How to Store Chicken Divan with Mayo

Store chicken Divan with mayonnaise in an airtight container in the fridge. Let the casserole cool completely before covering it. Leftovers should stay good for three to four days in the refrigerator.

Can you freeze chicken Divan with mayo?

Yes, you can freeze chicken Divan recipe with mayo—but there’s a catch. Because it contains mayonnaise, the casserole sauce may split when defrosted. There is a solution: Freeze the casserole before baking it. The unbaked sauce is more stable and should freeze without a change in texture.

Make the recipe through Step 3. Freeze the chicken and sauce in a freezer bag, or spread it in a casserole dish and cover it tightly. Freeze them for up to two months. Defrost them in the refrigerator overnight before assembling the casserole. Top it with the shredded cheese and bread crumbs, then bake as directed.

How should you reheat chicken Divan with mayo?

To reheat chicken Divan with cream of chicken soup, cover the casserole dish with foil (to prevent the topping from burning). Bake it in a 300° oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until it’s heated through.

Chicken Divan with Mayo Tips

Can chicken Divan with mayo be made gluten-free?

With a few simple swaps, chicken Divan can be turned into a tasty gluten-free casserole. Use a certified gluten-free condensed soup and gluten-free bread crumbs or panko. If you can’t find them at the store, make homemade bread crumbs using your favorite gluten-free bread.

What should you serve with chicken Divan?

Serve chicken Divan with a starch and a vegetable to make a complete meal. Egg noodles are traditional, while hollow shapes like shells or penne will hold the creamy sauce. Go with mashed potatoes for pure comfort food. For veggies, you can’t go wrong with a crisp green salad, but you can also try a speedy veggie side, such as glazed carrots or roasted green beans.