When it comes to comfort food, Chicken Divan is one of those classic recipes that has stood the test of time. Known for its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked broccoli, this dish has long been a family favorite. But traditionally, Chicken Divan is a baked casserole, often involving gelatinous canned soups and long cooking times. That’s why I’m so excited to share this Skillet Chicken Divan recipe—a faster, fresher take on the classic that can be made right on your stovetop.
With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a creamy, cheesy chicken dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or looking for a dish to impress at a potluck, this Skillet Chicken Divan has got you covered.
Plus, it’s made in one pan, which means less cleanup—a win in any cook’s book!
Why You’ll Love This Skillet Chicken Divan Recipe:
Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 40 minutes from start to finish, perfect for those busy nights when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spare.
One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet, which means fewer dishes to clean after dinner!
Family-Friendly: With its creamy sauce and cheesy topping, this dish is a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Versatile: Serve it over rice, noodles, or enjoy it as is. You can even swap ingredients depending on what you have on hand, making it adaptable to your preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best, but you can also use chicken thighs or rotisserie chicken.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add a healthy crunch, but you can substitute with frozen broccoli if you’re in a pinch.
Milk: Whole milk provides a rich, creamy texture to the sauce.
Cream Cheese and Cheddar Cheese: These two cheeses are key to creating that signature creamy, cheesy goodness.
Panko Breadcrumbs: They add the perfect crunchy topping. You can substitute with crushed buttery crackers if you prefer.
Butter and Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and making the sauce.
All-Purpose Flour: Helps thicken the sauce.
Parsley: Adds a fresh garnish that brightens up the dish.
How to Make Skillet Chicken Divan:
Cook the Chicken:Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. Heat a tablespoon of butter in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned but not fully cooked through—about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Cook the Broccoli:In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and 1/4 cup of water. Cover the skillet and let the broccoli steam for about 3 minutes, until it’s crisp-tender and vibrant green. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set it aside with the chicken.
Make the Sauce:Melt the remaining butter in the skillet over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking as you go to avoid lumps. Let the sauce simmer until it begins to thicken, about 2-3 minutes.
Add Chicken and Broccoli:Stir the chicken and broccoli back into the skillet. Let everything simmer for about 6 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F) and the sauce has thickened.
Add the Cheese:Stir in the cream cheese and half of the shredded cheddar. Mix until everything is melted and combined.
Top and Broil:In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, parsley, and the remaining cheddar cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the skillet. Place the skillet under the broiler for about 2 minutes, until the topping is golden and crispy.
Serve:Remove from the broiler, garnish with extra parsley, and serve the Skillet Chicken Divan over rice, egg noodles, or enjoy it on its own!
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?Yes! If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain it first to prevent excess moisture from thinning the sauce.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?Absolutely. Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken will save you even more time. Just add it when the recipe calls for the chicken to be added back into the skillet.
What can I substitute for panko breadcrumbs?You can use crushed crackers or regular breadcrumbs if you don’t have panko on hand.
Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?You can try substituting the cream cheese and cheddar with dairy-free alternatives, and use almond milk or another dairy-free milk in place of whole milk.
How long can I store leftovers?Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze Chicken Divan?Yes! After cooking, allow the dish to cool completely. Store it in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
How do I reheat leftovers?Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. You can also re-crisp the topping under the broiler for a few minutes.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?Yes! You can prepare the dish up until adding the topping. Store it in the fridge for up to two days, then top with breadcrumbs and broil before serving.
Can I add other vegetables?Definitely. Mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach would all be delicious additions to this dish.
Can I make this gluten-free?Use gluten-free flour for thickening the sauce and swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Final Thoughts:
This Skillet Chicken Divan is a fantastic option when you need something comforting and easy to make. With tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, a creamy sauce, and a crunchy topping, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. The recipe is so versatile, making it easy to adapt to your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish is sure to impress and become a regular part of your meal rotation.
Enjoy a slice of comfort with every bite!
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