Chicken Divan Recipe Sherry Parmesan Recipe
Creamy & Savory Chicken Divan Recipe Sherry Parmesan Ready in 45 Minutes
Indulge in a gourmet Chicken Divan recipe sherry Parmesan, crafted by Oliver & Natalia with over 15 years of culinary expertise, perfect for cozy dinners.
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Why Chicken Divan is a Timeless Comfort Food
The creamy Chicken Divan casserole is cherished for its luscious sherry-Parmesan sauce, tender chicken, and crisp broccoli, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. As noted by Epicurious, this dish, born in the early 20th century, marries wholesome ingredients with gourmet elegance, making it ideal for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. At *Mangoes and Palm Trees*, we add a tropical twist with options like coconut milk, enhancing its versatility for modern diets. Packed with protein and nutrients, it’s a comforting staple in our casserole recipes. Pair with a fresh salad for a complete, satisfying meal. Love comfort food? Explore our chicken recipes or savor the warmth of our Chicken Noodle Soup!
Complete Chicken Divan Recipe Sherry Parmesan
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| 4 cups | Chicken breast | Cooked, shredded or cubed |
| 4 cups | Fresh broccoli florets | Steamed until tender-crisp |
| 1 can (10.5 oz) | Cream of chicken soup | Or homemade equivalent |
| 1/2 cup | Mayonnaise | Full-fat for creaminess |
| 1/2 cup | Sour cream | Or Greek yogurt for lighter option |
| 1/4 cup | Dry sherry | High-quality for rich flavor |
| 1 tbsp | Lemon juice | Freshly squeezed |
| 1 cup | Grated Parmesan cheese | Divided, freshly grated |
| 1/2 cup | Panko breadcrumbs | For crispy topping |
| 2 tbsp | Unsalted butter | Melted |
| 1/2 tsp | Kosher salt | – |
| 1/4 tsp | Black pepper | Freshly ground |
| 1/4 cup | Coconut milk | Optional, for tropical variation |
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Steam 4 cups fresh broccoli florets for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp, then drain and set aside. Cook and shred or cube 4 cups chicken breast (boiled, baked, or poached).
- Create the Sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup dry sherry, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until smooth. For a tropical twist, add 1/4 cup coconut milk.
- Assemble the Casserole: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the steamed broccoli evenly. Layer the shredded chicken over the broccoli. Pour the sauce over the chicken, spreading it to cover evenly. Sprinkle 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Add the Topping: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter, and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole for a crispy, golden finish.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. If needed, broil for 1-2 minutes to crisp the top, watching closely to avoid burning. Let rest for 5 minutes to set.
- Serve with Elegance: Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside our Reka Bread Recipe or a refreshing Crispy Chicken Salad for a complete meal.
Essential Ingredients for Chicken Divan
The success of this sherry Parmesan Chicken Divan lies in selecting high-quality ingredients to achieve its signature creamy, savory profile.
Chicken Selection
Opt for 4 cups of fresh, organic chicken breast for superior flavor and tenderness. Poach, bake, or grill the chicken, then shred or cube it for even distribution in the casserole. For convenience, use rotisserie chicken, as suggested in our chicken recipes, but ensure it’s free of strong seasonings.
Choosing the Right Broccoli
Select 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets, dark green, firm, and vibrant, to ensure a crisp texture and nutrient density, as outlined by Healthline. Steam lightly for 4-5 minutes to retain crunch and vibrant color, avoiding overcooking to prevent mushiness.
Sherry and Parmesan
Use a high-quality dry sherry (e.g., Fino or Amontillado) to add depth and a subtle nutty flavor to the sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese ensures a rich, melty texture and robust taste, elevating the dish’s gourmet appeal.
Nutritional Breakdown
This creamy Chicken Divan casserole offers a balanced nutritional profile per serving (approximately 1/6 of the casserole):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal | Provides energy for daily activities |
| Protein | 30g | Supports muscle repair and growth |
| Fat | 25g | Delivers energy, primarily from cheese and cream |
| Carbohydrates | 15g | Fuels energy needs, from breadcrumbs and broccoli |
| Vitamin C | 90 mg (100% DV) | Boosts immunity and skin health (from broccoli) |
| Calcium | 200 mg (15% DV) | Promotes bone health (from Parmesan) |
| Fiber | 3g | Supports digestion (from broccoli) |
Incorporate this dish into our Healthy Meal Plans for a nutritious, satisfying meal.
Variations of Chicken Divan
Customize this Chicken Divan recipe sherry Parmesan to suit dietary needs or add a *Mangoes and Palm Trees* tropical flair:
Tropical Coconut Chicken Divan
Replace 1/4 cup sour cream with 1/4 cup coconut milk and add 1 tsp curry powder to the sauce for a creamy, island-inspired flavor. Garnish with toasted coconut flakes for extra texture.
Gluten-Free Chicken Divan
Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup (or a homemade version with cornstarch) and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs, as outlined in our gluten-free meal plans.
Vegan Chicken Divan
Substitute chicken with 4 cups diced tofu or seitan, use vegan cream of mushroom soup, vegan mayonnaise, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. Replace butter with olive oil for the topping.
Low-Fat Chicken Divan
Use reduced-fat mayonnaise, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and half the Parmesan cheese to cut calories while maintaining creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your tropical Chicken Divan with these complementary pairings and presentation tips for a memorable dining experience:
| Pairing | Description | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Coconut Mashed Potatoes | Creamy, tropical side to complement the sauce; try our recipes. | Recipes |
| Mango-Lime Salad | Fresh, zesty contrast; pair with our Crispy Chicken Salad. | Crispy Chicken Salad |
| Artisan Bread Rolls | Soaks up the creamy sauce; explore our Reka Bread Recipe. | Reka Bread |
| Chilled White Wine | Crisp Sauvignon Blanc enhances flavors; see our drink recipes. | Drinks |
Serve in a rustic ceramic baking dish for a cozy presentation, garnished with fresh parsley or edible flowers for a *Mangoes and Palm Trees* touch. Offer extra sauce on the side for dipping.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Ensure your healthy Chicken Divan turns out perfectly with these solutions to common challenges:
Sauce Too Thin
If the sauce is runny, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water to create a slurry, stir into the sauce, and simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
Uneven Baking
Use a 9×13-inch glass or ceramic baking dish for even heat distribution, and rotate the dish halfway through baking to ensure a uniform golden top.
Broccoli Too Soft
Steam broccoli for only 4-5 minutes to maintain a tender-crisp texture; avoid boiling, which can make it mushy.
Topping Not Crispy
Ensure breadcrumbs are evenly coated with melted butter, and broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for a crisp, golden finish.
Apply these tips to other casseroles in our casserole recipes.
Conclusion
The Chicken Divan recipe sherry Parmesan is a creamy, savory masterpiece that brings comfort and elegance to any table, perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. With its rich sherry-Parmesan sauce and a tropical coconut milk option, this creamy Chicken Divan casserole is both versatile and unforgettable. Tried our recipe? Share your version on X with #MangoesPalmTrees or in the comments! Explore more comforting dishes in our chicken recipes, dive into our casserole recipes, or take a fun break with our Personality Quiz Hub. Happy cooking!
