Chicken Divan Recipe Sherry Parmesan Recipe

Ever found yourself standing in the kitchen, craving something warm and comforting that isn’t just another casserole? If you’ve been searching for a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and easy to throw together, chicken divan recipe sherry parmesan recipe is about to become your go-to. This dish hits all the right notes: rich, flavorful, and easy enough for a weeknight dinner, but fancy enough to impress company.

And if you’re in the mood for something a little different, check out this air fryer Polish sausage with potatoes, onions, and peppers for another cozy, satisfying meal idea. Both recipes are all about big flavors with minimal fuss.

Let’s dive in (no fancy words here) and figure out how to make it, step by step.

Ingredients for Chicken Divan Recipe Sherry Parmesan Recipe

The key to a good chicken divan recipe sherry parmesan recipe is starting with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken: Cooked and shredded or cubed. Rotisserie chicken works like magic.
Broccoli: Fresh or frozen. Either is fine, just make sure it’s tender.
Cream of Mushroom or Chicken Soup: This keeps things super creamy without a ton of effort.
Sherry: Adds a slight sweetness and depth. Cooking sherry works perfectly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated if possible. It makes a world of difference.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar balances the richness.
Sour Cream or Mayonnaise: Adds that tangy, creamy goodness.
Breadcrumbs: For that irresistible crunch on top.
Butter: To toast the breadcrumbs and add flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Just to taste, because nobody likes a bland casserole.

Fresh ingredients for Chicken Divan recipe including chicken, broccoli, cheeses, and breadcrumbs on a kitchen countertop.

Why These Ingredients?

The combination of sherry and parmesan brings out a depth of flavor that’s anything but ordinary. Plus, using broccoli gives it a fresh, healthy-ish vibe without compromising on comfort.

Tools and Equipment Needed

You don’t need anything fancy to whip up this dish, but here’s a quick checklist:

Casserole Dish: A 9×13-inch pan works well.
Large Mixing Bowl: For tossing all your ingredients together.
Whisk: To blend the sauce smoothly.
Saucepan: For melting butter or preparing a quick roux if you go the scratch-made route.
Oven: Set it and forget it—well, until the timer goes off.
Cheese Grater: If you’re using fresh parmesan.
Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping broccoli and chicken.

Pro Tip

If you’re all about saving time, pre-shredded cheese and frozen broccoli can cut your prep time significantly. And hey, no shame in that game.

How to Make Chicken Divan Recipe Sherry Parmesan Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Preheat the Oven Set your oven to 375°F. This gives you time to assemble everything without waiting for it to heat later.
Prepare the Broccoli
- If using fresh broccoli, blanch it in boiling water for about 3 minutes. It should be vibrant and tender but not mushy.
- Frozen broccoli? Just thaw and pat dry.
Mix the Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together your cream of soup (chicken or mushroom), sherry, sour cream, and a handful of grated parmesan.
- Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Layers
- Spread the cooked broccoli in your casserole dish as the bottom layer.
- Top with shredded chicken.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the top.
Add the Cheese
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar and another layer of parmesan over the sauce.
Breadcrumb Magic
- Melt butter in a small saucepan and toss breadcrumbs until golden. Spread them evenly over the cheese layer.
Bake It
- Slide your casserole into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Serve and Enjoy Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Trust me, it’s worth the wait.

Step-by-step process of assembling Chicken Divan casserole with chicken, broccoli, and creamy sauce

Quick Cleanup Tip

Line your casserole dish with foil before baking if you dread scrubbing dishes. Cleanup will be a breeze!

Tips for Chicken Divan Recipe Sherry Parmesan Recipe

Balance the Sherry: If you’re not a fan of strong flavors, start with just a tablespoon of sherry and adjust to taste.
Skip the Can: Want to go scratch-made? Whip up a quick roux with butter, flour, and chicken broth instead of canned soup.
Keep It Fresh: Fresh parmesan cheese makes the dish more flavorful. Pre-grated stuff? It’s okay in a pinch, but fresh is better.
Crispier Topping: Add a sprinkle of garlic powder or paprika to the breadcrumbs for a bit more kick.

Common Mistake

Overcooking broccoli in the casserole can make it mushy. Stick to blanching or thawing—it’ll cook more in the oven.

Variations of Chicken Divan Recipe Sherry Parmesan Recipe

The beauty of this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few fun twists:

Low-Carb Version Swap the breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds, and you’ve got a keto-friendly version that’s still delicious.
Vegetarian Take Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or tofu. The creamy sauce still pairs beautifully with broccoli.
Add Some Spice Mix a dash of cayenne or red pepper flakes into the sauce if you like a little heat.
Different Cheeses Not a cheddar fan? Gouda or Monterey Jack melts just as nicely. And who doesn’t love experimenting with cheese?
Make It a One-Pot Meal Toss in cooked rice or pasta before baking, and you’ve got an all-in-one dinner that’s hearty and satisfying.

Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Divan Recipe Sherry Parmesan Recipe

While indulgent, this dish comes with its own set of benefits. It’s not all cheese and cream—there’s plenty of good stuff in here too!

Protein Power: The chicken provides a solid protein punch, helping with muscle repair and keeping you full longer.
Broccoli Bonus: Packed with vitamins C and K, broccoli adds a fresh, green balance to the richness.
Calcium Boost: Parmesan and cheddar cheeses add flavor and are great sources of calcium.
Healthy Fats: Sour cream or mayonnaise adds richness, but when used moderately, they offer essential fats.

If you’re watching calories, you can tweak it. Swapping mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or using reduced-fat cheese still keeps it delicious while lightening it up.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Chicken Divan Recipe Sherry Parmesan Recipe

So, you’ve made too much (not a bad problem to have). Here’s how to store and reheat your leftovers like a pro.

Refrigerator: Transfer the cooled casserole into an airtight container. It’ll stay good for 3-4 days.
Freezer: Wrap the dish tightly in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating in Oven: For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through. Cover it with foil to prevent the top from drying out.
Microwave Quick Fix: Use a microwave-safe dish and reheat in small portions. Add a splash of milk or cream if it looks a little dry.

Pro Tip: Avoid overcooking when reheating to keep the flavors fresh and the broccoli from going mushy.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Divan Recipe Sherry Parmesan Recipe

Pairing this casserole with the right sides can turn it into a complete meal. Here’s how you can round it out:

Rice or Pasta: Serve the casserole over fluffy white rice or egg noodles for a heartier meal.
Crisp Salad: A light, zesty salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness.
Crusty Bread: Who doesn’t love sopping up creamy sauces with fresh bread? Bonus: It’s an easy cleanup strategy for plates!
Roasted Veggies: If broccoli alone isn’t enough, add some roasted carrots or asparagus to the plate.

No matter how you serve it, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.

FAQs

What Does Divan Mean in Cooking?

In cooking, “divan” refers to a dish that’s baked with a creamy sauce, often served in a shallow dish. Its origins trace back to the Divan Parisien restaurant, where the original chicken divan was first created.

Can You Make Chicken Divan Without Cream of Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! You can whip up a quick homemade cream sauce using butter, flour, and chicken broth. It’s fresher and lets you control the flavors.

What Wine Goes with Chicken Divan?

A lightly oaked Chardonnay pairs beautifully, thanks to its buttery notes. Sauvignon Blanc is another great choice if you prefer something crisper.

What is Chicken Divan Made Of?

The classic version includes chicken, broccoli, a creamy sauce (often with a touch of sherry), and plenty of cheese. Toppings like breadcrumbs add crunch.

A Beginner’s Guide to Chicken Divan Recipe Sherry Parmesan Recipe

Starting Out Made Easy

Making a chicken divan recipe with sherry and parmesan for the first time doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Here’s a straightforward approach to get you started.

Pre-Cooked Chicken: Using rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken simplifies the process. Just shred or cube it—no need to worry about seasoning since the sauce takes care of that.
Frozen Broccoli Saves the Day: Frozen broccoli eliminates the prep work. All you need to do is thaw and drain it to avoid excess water in the dish. If you prefer fresh broccoli, blanch it briefly so it stays tender but firm.
Canned Soup Convenience: Cream of chicken or mushroom soup is a reliable shortcut. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can whip up your own sauce, but the canned version works beautifully for beginners.

Don’t Skip the Sherry

Adding a splash of sherry might seem fancy, but it’s surprisingly easy to work with. A tablespoon or two improves the flavor profile, adding a subtle sweetness and complexity that balances the creaminess. No need to be intimidated—most grocery stores carry it, and a bottle lasts a while.

Quick Assembly for Beginners

Layer It Right: Start with the broccoli, then add chicken, pour over the sauce, sprinkle with cheese, and finish with breadcrumbs.
Bake and Relax: Slide it into the oven and let it do the work. You’ll have time to set the table or catch up on texts while the casserole bakes to golden perfection.

Advanced Tips for Chicken Divan Recipe Sherry Parmesan Recipe

For those who have mastered the basics and want to improve their chicken divan game, here are a few pro-level tips.

Master the Art of Layering

Instead of mixing everything together, layer each ingredient with care. Start with the broccoli as a base, followed by the chicken, and then pour the sauce evenly. This keeps the broccoli from becoming overly soft and preserves the texture.

Fresh Cheese Makes the Difference

If you’ve been using pre-grated cheese, switch to freshly grated parmesan and cheddar. Freshly grated cheese not only melts better but also delivers a richer flavor. It’s an extra step, but the payoff is worth it.

Go for Dry Sherry

The choice between dry sherry and cooking sherry can make or break the dish. Cooking sherry often contains added salt, which can throw off the balance of flavors. Dry sherry from the wine aisle adds a cleaner, more sophisticated taste. It’s a small investment for big flavor.

Upgrade Your Topping

Breadcrumbs are classic, but why not experiment? Crushed Ritz crackers add a buttery, rich crunch, while panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crispier texture. For a hint of zest, mix a little grated parmesan into the topping.

Make It Your Own

Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne to the sauce for a slight kick.
Throw in a handful of sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions to improve the savory elements.
Swap out broccoli for cauliflower or add a mix of both for variety.

These small tweaks can take your chicken divan recipe with sherry and parmesan from great to unforgettable. It’s a dish that evolves with your cooking skills, always leaving room for creativity and improvement.

The Appeal of Chicken Divan Recipe Sherry Parmesan Recipe

This dish is more than just a casserole; it’s a nostalgic favorite. Many families have their own spin on it, making it a recipe that feels like home. The creamy sauce, cheesy topping, and comforting broccoli-chicken combo make it timeless. Plus, it’s versatile—you can make it fancy for a dinner party or throw it together for a quick weeknight meal.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought Chicken Divan Recipe Sherry Parmesan Recipe

Making it from scratch has its perks. You control the ingredients, tweak the flavors, and skip preservatives. However, sometimes life gets busy. If you’re short on time, semi-homemade versions work well too. Using pre-cooked chicken or frozen broccoli cuts down on prep without sacrificing too much flavor. Just remember, the extra effort of a homemade sauce often pays off in taste.

Conclusion

The chicken divan recipe with sherry and parmesan is comfort food at its finest. From its creamy layers to the crispy topping, it’s a dish that satisfies every craving. Whether you’re trying it for the first time or have made it countless times, it always delivers on flavor and nostalgia. So grab your apron, and get cooking—it’s a meal that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.