Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe with Sherry Wine
Can a classic comfort food dish get better with sherry wine and parmesan cheese? Find out the secrets of the beloved Chicken Divan casserole. Learn how to make an amazing version that will wow your family and friends.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Classic Chicken Divan
The classic casserole dish known as Chicken Divan has been a favorite in American homes for many years. It started at the famous Divan Parisienne Restaurant in New York City. There, it was seen as a fancy and rich dish. Now, Chicken Divan is a comfort food that many people love to make at home.
History of the Dish
Chicken Divan was first made as a fancy main course at the Divan Parisienne. The name comes from the hotel where the restaurant was. As it became more popular, people started making it at home. They added things like sherry wine and parmesan cheese to make it their own.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This sherry wine chicken casserole is special because of its creamy sauce. The sauce is made better by the sherry wine’s nutty taste. The parmesan cheese adds a sharp, savory flavor. Together, these ingredients make a dish that’s both gourmet and satisfying.
Essential Ingredients for Chicken Divan
The secret to a great creamy chicken casserole is in the ingredients. At its core, Chicken Divan uses boneless, skinless chicken breasts or a rotisserie chicken. These provide the main protein and structure. Fresh broccoli florets add texture, color, and important nutrients.
The sherry wine sauce is made with cream of mushroom soup for a rich base. Sherry cooking wine adds depth and complexity. Freshly grated parmesan cheese brings sharp, savory flavors.
Optional breadcrumbs add a crunchy topping. Each ingredient is crucial for the perfect mix of textures and flavors in Chicken Divan.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Rotisserie Chicken | 2-3 pounds |
| Fresh Broccoli Florets | 1 1/2 pounds |
| Cream of Chicken Soup | 1 (10.5-ounce) can |
| Dry Sherry | 1/4 cup |
| Grated Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Breadcrumbs (optional) | As needed |
These ingredients come together to create the unique flavors and textures of Chicken Divan.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
Preparing the Chicken Divan casserole requires the right tools. You need them for measuring ingredients and baking the dish perfectly. The right utensils can greatly affect the taste and look of this classic recipe.
Baking Dishes and Pans
The Chicken Divan needs a good baking dish. A 9×13-inch casserole dish or a shallow baking pan is best. Make sure it’s oven-safe and can handle high heat.
Measuring Tools and Utensils
Getting the measurements right is key for the Chicken Divan. Use measuring cups and spoons for the sherry wine and Parmesan cheese. A whisk and mixing spoons will help mix the sauce and layer the ingredients smoothly.
| Essential Kitchen Tools | Quantity |
|---|---|
| 9×13-inch Baking Dish | 1 |
| Measuring Cups | 1 set |
| Measuring Spoons | 1 set |
| Whisk | 1 |
| Mixing Spoons | 2-3 |
| Cheese Grater | 1 |
| Knife | 1 |
| Cutting Board | 1 |
With these kitchen utensils for Chicken Divan, you’re ready to make a tasty dish. It will impress your family and guests.
Preparing the Perfect Chicken
To make a delicious Chicken Divan casserole, you need tender, flavorful chicken. Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. If using raw chicken, season it with salt and pepper before cooking until it’s tender.
Once cooked, shred or dice the chicken into small pieces. Make sure there’s no extra moisture that could ruin the casserole’s texture.
Using a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time and adds a tasty, roasted flavor. Just shred or chop the meat and mix it into the casserole. This way, you can focus on the creamy sauce and broccoli preparation.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts | 2-3 pounds |
| Rotisserie Chicken, Shredded or Chopped | Equivalent to 2-3 pounds of raw chicken |
Whether you use raw chicken or a pre-cooked rotisserie, make sure it’s well-cooked and drained. This prevents extra moisture from ruining the casserole’s texture. With the chicken prepared just right, you’re ready to make a tender chicken for divan that will impress your guests.
The Role of Sherry Wine in Chicken Divan
Sherry wine is a key ingredient that makes Chicken Divan special. It adds a nutty flavor to the creamy sauce. This flavor complements the parmesan cheese perfectly.
Selecting the Right Sherry
When picking a sherry for Chicken Divan, choose a dry variety for cooking. Stay away from sweet or cream sherries. They can overwhelm the dish. Opt for a dry, medium-bodied sherry that blends well with the sauce.
Alternative Wine Options
If you don’t like alcohol or don’t have sherry, there are other options. A mix of apple cider vinegar and chicken broth can work like sherry. You can also use a dry white wine, like chardonnay or sauvignon blanc, or dry marsala wine.
It’s important to use wine wisely. Let the other flavors in the dish stand out. The wine should add a subtle flavor. With the right mix, your Chicken Divan will be a hit.
“Sherry wine is the secret to a truly exceptional Chicken Divan. Its nutty, complex flavor profile elevates the entire dish, creating a symphony of taste that will delight your senses.”
Creating the Creamy Sauce Base
The secret to a great creamy casserole sauce for Chicken Divan is in the sauce base. It’s made with cream of mushroom soup, sherry cooking wine, and lots of grated parmesan cheese. Adding sour cream or mayonnaise makes it even creamier.
To make the perfect homemade casserole sauce, just mix the ingredients until smooth. You can adjust the sherry wine to your taste. Or, use homemade cream soup for a fresher flavor.
“The secret to a truly remarkable Chicken Divan is in the careful preparation of the creamy sauce base. It’s the foundation that ties all the flavors together.”
By focusing on a balanced and flavorful sauce base, you can make your Chicken Divan Casserole amazing. It becomes both comforting and satisfying. With a bit of care, you’ll create a dish everyone will love.
Proper Broccoli Preparation Techniques
When making the perfect Chicken Divan Casserole, how you prepare the broccoli is key. Fresh broccoli florets are best because they are crisp and vibrant. To get the right texture, you need to blanch them before adding them to the casserole.
Blanching Methods
Blanching means briefly boiling the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes. This makes them soft but keeps them green and crisp-tender. After blanching, cool them down in ice water to stop cooking and keep the texture right.
Achieving the Ideal Texture
If you use frozen broccoli, thaw and drain it well before adding it. Frozen broccoli can make the dish soggy if it’s too wet. You want the broccoli to be tender but still a bit crunchy, as it will soften more when baked.
“Proper broccoli preparation is the key to a perfectly balanced Chicken Divan Casserole. Blanching ensures the florets retain their vibrant color and crisp-tender texture, elevating the overall dish.”
By using these broccoli preparation techniques, your Chicken Divan Casserole will be a hit. It will have tender chicken, tasty sauce, and perfectly cooked broccoli that will impress everyone.
Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe with Sherry Wine
Indulge in the classic elegance of chicken divan with a delightful twist – the addition of sherry wine. This creamy, cheesy casserole dish is a true culinary delight. It blends tender chicken, broccoli, and a rich, flavorful sauce. Prepare to be captivated by the harmonious flavors and textures that come together in this sherry wine casserole recipe.
To begin, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange a layer of blanched broccoli florets in a well-greased baking dish, followed by a generous layer of shredded chicken. In a separate bowl, mix together cream of mushroom soup, sherry wine, sour cream, and half the grated parmesan cheese. Carefully pour this savory sauce over the chicken and broccoli, ensuring an even coverage.
Finish the dish by sprinkling the remaining parmesan cheese and a light dusting of breadcrumbs over the top. Bake the chicken divan casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving, as this will allow the flavors to meld and develop even further.
| Prep Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 20 minutes | 30 minutes | 50 minutes |
The chicken divan recipe showcases a delightful balance of flavors and nutrients. The lean chicken provides a protein-rich foundation, while the broccoli adds a generous dose of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The sherry wine, with its low-calorie profile and antioxidant properties, lends a unique depth of flavor to the creamy sauce. The parmesan cheese, a natural source of calcium and protein, complements the dish perfectly.
To perfect this chicken divan casserole with sherry wine, be mindful of a few key tips:
- Avoid overcooking the broccoli to maintain its vibrant color and crisp-tender texture.
- Use freshly shredded parmesan cheese for optimal melting and flavor.
- Experiment with healthier substitutes, such as low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt, to create a lighter version.
When it comes to wine pairings, the sherry wine in this dish pairs beautifully with light white wines like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, as well as delicate red wines such as Pinot Noir. Serve the chicken divan casserole alongside a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or your favorite crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Layering Techniques for Best Results
Assembling a Chicken Divan casserole requires a special touch. The right layering technique is key to a perfect mix of flavors and textures. You’ll get tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy sauce, all under a golden, cheesy crust.
Begin with a layer of blanched broccoli florets at the bottom of your dish. This base is essential. Then, spread the shredded chicken evenly over the broccoli. Make sure every spot is covered.
Next, pour the creamy sauce mixture over the chicken and broccoli. Use a spatula to spread it gently. This way, the sauce coats every bite, bringing out the flavors of sherry.
- Finally, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs on top. This adds a crunchy, golden topping and boosts the flavor.
By using these casserole layering tips and best practices for assembling chicken divan, you’ll make a dish that’s a joy to eat. Each ingredient will work together to create a balanced and delicious experience.
“The secret to a truly remarkable Chicken Divan lies in the careful layering of the ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures.”
Cheese Selection and Combination Tips
Choosing the right cheese for casseroles, like the classic chicken divan, is key. The right cheese can make a big difference. Parmesan is the star here, adding a sharp, savory flavor.
Best Cheese Varieties
For the best chicken divan, use freshly grated parmesan. It has a finer texture and more flavor. Adding sharp cheddar cheese also helps, making the top gooier and more indulgent.
Other great choices are Gruyère and mozzarella. Gruyère adds a nutty, sweet taste. Mozzarella melts into a classic, stringy texture.
Melting Techniques
To get the cheese to melt right, spread it evenly on top. Don’t clump it, as this can mess up the melting. Also, watch the baking temperature and time. Too high or too long can make the cheese tough or burnt.
“The key to a truly exceptional chicken divan is the perfect balance of savory, creamy, and melty cheese.”
| Cheese Variety | Flavor Profile | Melting Properties |
|---|---|---|
| Parmesan | Sharp, savory | Excellent |
| Cheddar | Tangy, creamy | Excellent |
| Gruyère | Nutty, slightly sweet | Very good |
| Mozzarella | Mild, stringy | Excellent |
Baking Time and Temperature Guidelines
For a perfect Chicken Divan Casserole, knowing the right baking time and temperature is key. The ideal baking temperature is 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole is cooked well, with a golden top and creamy sauce.
The recommended baking time is 25-30 minutes. This lets the flavors mix, the chicken get tender, and the broccoli just right. For a crisper top, broil for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
After baking, let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set, making it easier to serve without it falling apart.
By following these casserole baking tips and perfect chicken divan baking guidelines, your Chicken Divan Casserole will always be a hit. It will be creamy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.
| Baking Temperature | Baking Time | Broiling Time (Optional) | Resting Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 375°F (190°C) | 25-30 minutes | 2-3 minutes | 5-10 minutes |
Following the right casserole baking tips and perfect chicken divan baking guidelines is the key to achieving a delicious, creamy, and flavorful Chicken Divan Casserole every time.
Make-Ahead and Storage Options
Chicken Divan is a versatile casserole that can be made ahead of time. It’s great for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Its long-lasting storage makes it a perfect choice.
To make Chicken Divan ahead, assemble all ingredients in a baking dish. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Let it come to room temperature for 30 minutes before baking for even heating.
For make-ahead casserole tips, you can prepare the whole casserole or just the chicken and sauce. Then, assemble it just before baking.
Leftovers of Chicken Divan can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-60 minutes.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months |
Chicken Divan’s make-ahead and storage options save you time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Its versatility adds value to your cooking.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
Chicken Divan is best with light, fresh sides to balance its rich flavors. Try fluffy white rice or nutty quinoa to soak up the sauce. A crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch. And don’t forget crusty bread for mopping up every last drop.
Complementary Sides
- Steamed white rice or quinoa
- Fresh green salad with vinaigrette
- Crusty French or sourdough bread
- Roasted asparagus or brussels sprouts
- Sautéed garlic-butter green beans
Plating Recommendations
Use a large spoon to portion Chicken Divan, making sure each serving has chicken, broccoli, and sauce. Top with fresh parsley or chives for color and flavor.
Pairing Chicken Divan with light sides and careful plating makes a stunning meal. It highlights the dish’s gourmet taste.
Conclusion
Chicken Divan with Sherry Wine is a classic dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. It combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce. The sauce is enhanced by sherry and parmesan cheese, making it a hit for family dinners or special occasions.
This recipe has a long history, starting at the Divan Parisienne Restaurant in New York City. By preparing the chicken and broccoli right, and layering the ingredients carefully, you can make a dish that tastes like it’s from a restaurant. Try different cheeses and sides to make it your own.
Chicken Divan is sure to wow your guests, whether it’s the main dish or part of a bigger meal. It’s packed with lean protein, fiber from the veggies, and a creamy sauce. Take your time to enjoy the mix of flavors and textures. It’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table.