Skillet Chicken Divan recipe

There are certain dishes that just scream “comfort,” and for my family, Chicken Divan has always been at the top of that list. I remember my mom making a baked casserole version that was a staple for Sunday dinners. While I adored the creamy, cheesy goodness, the multiple steps and bake time sometimes felt like a bit much for a hectic weeknight. That’s when I started experimenting with a skillet version. My goal was to capture all that classic flavor – tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and a luscious, cheesy sauce – but in a quicker, one-pan format. The first time I served this Skillet Chicken Divan, the reaction was immediate. My husband, a tough critic when it comes to reinventing classics, was instantly won over by how the sauce seemed even creamier and the broccoli retained a perfect bite. The kids? They just saw chicken, broccoli, and cheese and happily cleaned their plates, blissfully unaware of the “healthier” tweaks and quicker cooking time. It’s now our go-to comfort meal, delivering all the nostalgic flavors with weeknight-friendly ease.

Skillet Chicken Divan: A Modern Twist on a Timeless Classic

Chicken Divan, a beloved American casserole traditionally featuring chicken, broccoli, and a creamy Mornay sauce, has graced dinner tables for generations. Its rich flavors and comforting textures make it a perennial favorite. However, the classic oven-baked version can sometimes be time-consuming. Enter the Skillet Chicken Divan – a brilliant adaptation that delivers all the decadent taste and comforting warmth of the original but in a fraction of the time and with fewer dishes to wash! This one-pan wonder combines tender, bite-sized chicken pieces and perfectly cooked broccoli florets, all enveloped in a velvety, cheesy sauce, often topped with a buttery crumb topping for that signature crunch. It’s the perfect solution for a satisfying weeknight dinner, a cozy family meal, or whenever you crave a dish that feels both elegant and utterly comforting.

Why This Skillet Chicken Divan Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

This isn’t just another chicken and broccoli recipe; it’s a carefully streamlined version of a classic that offers numerous advantages.

One-Pan Wonder: Fewer Dishes, Less Fuss

Perhaps the most significant appeal is the convenience of a one-pan meal. Everything, from searing the chicken to creating the creamy sauce and melding the flavors, happens in a single skillet. This means significantly less cleanup, freeing up more of your precious evening time.

Speed and Efficiency: Dinner on the Table Faster

Unlike its traditional casserole counterpart that requires lengthy baking, this skillet version comes together much more quickly. By cooking directly on the stovetop and perhaps a quick broil at the end, you can have a delicious, hearty meal ready in around 30-40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Retains Texture and Freshness: Perfectly Cooked Ingredients

Cooking in a skillet gives you more control over the doneness of your ingredients. The chicken can be seared to perfection, retaining its juices, and the broccoli can be cooked to a desirable crisp-tender state, avoiding the mushiness that can sometimes plague oven-baked casseroles. The flavors stay bright and distinct.

Creamy, Dreamy Sauce: Made from Scratch Goodness

This recipe guides you through making a luscious, cheesy sauce from scratch. While it might sound intimidating, it’s surprisingly simple and far superior in taste and texture to canned cream soups often used in quick casserole versions. You control the ingredients, avoiding unnecessary preservatives and sodium.

Customizable to Your Liking: Make It Your Own

While classic Chicken Divan has a set profile, the skillet version is wonderfully adaptable.

• Cheese variations: Swap cheddar for Gruyère, Swiss, or Monterey Jack.
• Add-ins: Sautéed mushrooms, onions, or a sprinkle of pimentos can add extra depth.
• Topping: Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crisp, crushed Ritz crackers, or even slivered almonds.
• Spice level: A pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes can add a gentle warmth.

Family-Friendly Comfort: A Crowd-Pleaser

The combination of tender chicken, familiar broccoli, and a rich, cheesy sauce is almost universally loved, especially by children. It’s a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug, making it a reliable choice for family dinners.

Elegant Enough for Guests, Easy Enough for Weeknights:

While it’s quick to prepare, Skillet Chicken Divan still presents beautifully and tastes sophisticated enough to serve to guests. Its rich flavors and appealing look make it seem like you spent far more time on it than you actually did.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Our Skillet Chicken Divan

To whip up this delicious one-pan meal, gather the following ingredients:

• Chicken: 1.5 lbs (about 680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Broccoli: 1 large head (about 4-5 cups florets), cut into bite-sized florets
• Olive Oil or Butter: 2 tablespoons, divided
• Aromatics:
  • Onion: 1 small, finely chopped (optional, but adds flavor)
  • Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced
• For the Creamy Sauce:
  • Butter: 3 tablespoons
  • All-Purpose Flour: 3 tablespoons
  • Chicken Broth: 1.5 cups (low sodium preferred)
  • Milk or Half-and-Half: ½ cup (half-and-half for richer sauce)
  • Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 1.5 cups, shredded (plus extra for topping)
  • Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup, grated
  • Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon (optional, adds tang)
  • Nutmeg: A pinch (optional, classic in cream sauces)
  • Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
• For the Topping (Optional but Recommended):
  • Panko Breadcrumbs or Crushed Ritz Crackers: ½ cup
  • Butter: 1 tablespoon, melted

A Note on Ingredients:

• Chicken: Both chicken breasts and thighs work well. Thighs will be more tender and flavorful, while breasts are leaner. Ensure they are cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture. If using frozen, thaw and pat it dry very well to avoid a watery sauce. You may want to add frozen broccoli directly to the sauce later in the cooking process as it cooks faster.
• Cheese: Sharp cheddar provides a good flavor punch. Feel free to use a mix of cheeses. Gruyère, Swiss, or Monterey Jack are excellent alternatives or additions. Always shred your own cheese from a block for the best meltability and flavor; pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents.
• Liquid: Using a combination of chicken broth and milk/half-and-half creates a balanced, creamy sauce. For an even richer sauce, use all half-and-half or even heavy cream for part of the liquid.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting Your Creamy Skillet Chicken Divan

Follow these easy steps to create a delicious Skillet Chicken Divan that your whole family will love.

1. Prepare Ingredients (10 minutes):
* Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper.
* Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets. If the stems are thick, you can peel and dice them too.
* Finely chop the onion (if using) and mince the garlic.
* Shred the cheddar cheese and grate the Parmesan.
* If using a breadcrumb topping, mix the panko/Ritz crackers with 1 tablespoon of melted butter in a small bowl. Set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken (5-7 minutes):
* Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large, oven-safe skillet (at least 10-12 inches, cast iron is great) over medium-high heat.
* Add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding).
* Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned but not necessarily cooked all the way through. It will finish cooking in the sauce.
* Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

3. Sauté Aromatics and Broccoli (5-7 minutes):
* To the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter if needed.
* Add the chopped onion (if using) and cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
* Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Sauté for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn bright green and are slightly tender-crisp. You can add a tablespoon or two of water or chicken broth and cover the skillet for a couple of minutes to help steam the broccoli if you prefer it softer.
* Remove the broccoli from the skillet and set aside (you can add it to the plate with the chicken).

4. Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce (8-10 minutes):
* In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
* Once melted, whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Cook, whisking constantly, for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This cooks out the raw flour taste.
* Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, a little at a time, ensuring each addition is smooth before adding more. This prevents lumps.
* Once all the broth is incorporated, whisk in the milk or half-and-half.
* Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, whisking frequently, until it begins to thicken (about 3-5 minutes).
* Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese (reserving some for topping if not using breadcrumbs) and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
* Stir in the Dijon mustard (if using) and a pinch of nutmeg (if using).
* Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remember the chicken and broth already have some salt.

5. Combine and Finish (5-7 minutes + Optional Broiling):
* Return the cooked chicken and sautéed broccoli to the skillet with the cheese sauce.
* Stir gently to ensure everything is well coated. Allow to simmer for a few minutes for the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through completely.
* If using, sprinkle the buttered breadcrumb mixture (or extra reserved shredded cheese) evenly over the top.
* Optional Broiling for a Golden Top: If your skillet is oven-safe, you can place it under a preheated broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching very carefully, until the topping is golden brown and bubbly. Do not walk away, as broilers work very quickly!
* If not broiling, simply cover the skillet for a couple of minutes to melt the cheese on top.

6. Rest and Serve:
* Remove the skillet from the heat (or broiler). Let the Skillet Chicken Divan rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly more.
* Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts (Estimated)

• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per serving (based on 4 servings): Approximately 600-750 calories

Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate and can vary significantly based on specific ingredients used (e.g., type of chicken, amount and type of cheese, use of milk vs. half-and-half, addition of breadcrumb topping) and exact portion sizes. For precise nutritional data, consider using an online nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients.

Preparation Time: Quick Comfort on Your Table

This skillet version significantly cuts down on the traditional prep and bake time.

• Prep Time (Chopping, measuring, shredding): 15 minutes
• Cook Time (Searing, sautéing, sauce making, finishing): 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes

How to Serve Your Delicious Skillet Chicken Divan

Skillet Chicken Divan is wonderfully versatile and can be served in several delightful ways:

• Over Rice:
  • Serve generously spooned over fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa. The grains do an excellent job of soaking up that luscious, creamy sauce.
• With Pasta:
  • Toss with cooked egg noodles, penne, rotini, or fettuccine for a heartier, pasta-based meal. The sauce coats the pasta beautifully.
• Alongside Crusty Bread:
  • Serve with slices of crusty French bread, sourdough, or garlic bread for dipping into the rich cheese sauce.
• With Biscuits:
  • Fluffy buttermilk biscuits are a fantastic accompaniment, perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce.
• Low-Carb Options:
  • Serve over cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative.
  • Enjoy it on its own as a satisfying low-carb meal.
  • Pair with steamed asparagus or a side salad.
• Garnishes for Flair:
  • A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a touch of color and freshness.
  • A few extra grinds of black pepper.
  • A light dusting of smoked paprika.

No matter how you serve it, the creamy, cheesy goodness is sure to be a hit!

Additional Tips for Chicken Divan Dominance

Take your Skillet Chicken Divan from great to absolutely irresistible with these pro tips:

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan When Searing Chicken: For nicely browned chicken with good flavor, sear it in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan will steam the chicken rather than sear it, resulting in a less flavorful and potentially rubbery texture.
2. Broccoli Bliss: Fresh is Best, Handle with Care: Use fresh broccoli for the best texture. Cut florets into even, bite-sized pieces. To ensure it’s perfectly crisp-tender, you can briefly blanch it before adding to the skillet or sauté it just until bright green and slightly tender. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat very dry to prevent a watery sauce; it will also require less cooking time in the skillet.
3. Smooth Sauce Secrets: The Roux is Key: When making your cheese sauce, cook the butter and flour (the roux) for at least a minute to eliminate any raw flour taste. Then, add the liquid (broth and milk) gradually, whisking constantly, especially with the first additions. This is crucial for a smooth, lump-free sauce.
4. Cheese Choices and Melting Magic: Always shred your cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheeses contain anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting and make your sauce gritty. Remove the sauce from direct heat or turn the heat to very low before stirring in the cheese to prevent it from becoming stringy or separating.
5. Topping Triumph: Get That Golden Crunch: If you love a crunchy topping (and who doesn’t?), don’t skip the buttered panko or crushed Ritz crackers. For an extra golden and crisp finish, a quick 2-3 minute stint under the broiler (in an oven-safe skillet) does wonders. Just watch it like a hawk, as it can go from golden to burnt very quickly!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to some common questions about making Skillet Chicken Divan:

Q1: Can I use rotisserie chicken to save time?
A: Absolutely! Using shredded or diced rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver. Simply skip the chicken searing step (Step 2). You can add the cooked rotisserie chicken to the sauce along with the broccoli in Step 5 to heat through. You may need to adjust seasoning as rotisserie chicken is often already salted.

Q2: Can I make this recipe with frozen broccoli?
A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. It’s best to thaw it completely and pat it very dry with paper towels before using to remove excess moisture, which can make the sauce watery. Frozen broccoli cooks faster than fresh, so add it to the skillet for a shorter period, or stir it into the sauce towards the end just to heat through.

Q3: What are some good variations or additions to this recipe?
A: Skillet Chicken Divan is quite versatile!
* Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the onions.
* Water Chestnuts: Add sliced water chestnuts for a bit of crunch.
* Pimentos: Stir in some diced pimentos for color and a mild sweet pepper flavor.
* Different Cheeses: Try Gruyère, Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even a touch of Gouda.
* Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
* Wine: A splash of dry white wine (like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc) can be added to deglaze the pan after cooking the aromatics and before making the roux, for extra depth of flavor. Let it reduce by half.

Q4: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Store leftover Skillet Chicken Divan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat:
* Stovetop (Recommended): Gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir occasionally until warmed through.
* Microwave: Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, until hot. The sauce might separate slightly but will still be delicious.
The breadcrumb topping will lose its crispness upon refrigeration but will still taste good.

Q5: Can I make Skillet Chicken Divan ahead of time?
A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture (especially the broccoli and topping), you can prepare components ahead. Cook the chicken and set it aside. Prepare the sauce and keep it separate. Sauté or blanch the broccoli. When ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce, add the chicken and broccoli, and proceed with the topping. Alternatively, you can fully assemble the dish (without the topping if broiling later) and refrigerate. Reheat gently on the stovetop, then add the topping and broil just before serving if desired. Keep in mind the broccoli may soften more with this method.

A Comforting Classic, Reimagined for Today’s Kitchen

Skillet Chicken Divan is the perfect embodiment of how a classic dish can be adapted for modern lifestyles without sacrificing any of its beloved charm or flavor. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that brings together simple ingredients in a truly delicious way. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a luxuriously creamy, cheesy sauce, all prepared in one pan, makes it an undeniable winner for any night of the week. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Chicken Divan or new to its comforting embrace, this skillet version is sure to impress with its ease, speed, and incredible taste. Give it a try, and watch it become a new family favorite!

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