Chicken Divan Recipe Sherry Parmesan Recipe | Easy Dinner
Try the Chicken Divan Recipe Sherry Parmesan for a comforting meal. It comes from the Divan Parisienne Restaurant in New York City. It has tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich sauce with sherry and Parmesan cheese.
This dish is easy to make and will warm your heart. It’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Classic Chicken Divan recipe sherry parmesan recipe
The classic chicken divan is a favorite casserole that mixes tender chicken with fresh broccoli in a creamy sauce. It’s a upscale casserole loved by families for years. It started at the Divan Parisienne Restaurant in New York City in the 20th century.
Chicken divan is made with mayonnaise, cream of mushroom soup, and shredded cheese. This makes it a comforting and simple dish to make. The Sherry Parmesan version adds a richer flavor and a luxurious feel to the classic.
Chicken divan is great for both casual dinners and upscale gatherings. Its creamy, cheesy taste and the mix of chicken and broccoli make it a hit. It’s a family-friendly meal that everyone loves.
“Chicken divan is a comforting, indulgent casserole that brings people together around the table. Its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken make it a true classic.” – Chef Sarah Johnson
Essential Ingredients for Chicken Divan recipe sherry parmesan recipe
The classic Chicken Divan recipe needs fresh, high-quality ingredients for a tasty dish. At its core are the chicken divan ingredients – tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy sauce. This sauce is made richer with shredded parmesan cheese and dry sherry.
Fresh Produce Components
The fresh broccoli is key, adding a crisp contrast to the creamy sauce. Choose broccoli with tight heads and bright green color for the best taste and freshness.
Dairy and Protein Elements
The dish gets its protein from chicken breasts. The creamy sauce is made with mayonnaise, sour cream, and shredded parmesan cheese. These ingredients make the sauce velvety and rich.
Sauce Ingredients
Dry sherry adds depth to the sauce, making Chicken Divan special. It mixes with cream of chicken soup for a balanced flavor that takes the dish to the next level.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked and shredded chicken breasts | 2 cups |
| Fresh broccoli florets | 2 cups |
| Mayonnaise | 1/2 cup |
| Sour cream | 1/2 cup |
| Cream of chicken soup | 1 can |
| Shredded parmesan cheese | 1 cup |
| Dry sherry | 1/4 cup |
These chicken divan ingredients come together to make a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. It’s a classic favorite for families and gatherings.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make the classic Chicken Divan, you need some basic kitchen tools. A 9×13-inch casserole dish is key to hold all the ingredients. You’ll also need a large mixing bowl for mixing the creamy sauce and adding the cooked broccoli and chicken.
A whisk helps blend the sauce smoothly. You’ll use a saucepan to cook the sauce on the stovetop. And, a oven is needed to bake the dish until it’s golden.
Using pre-shredded cheese and frozen broccoli florets saves time. A sharp knife and cutting board are useful for chopping the chicken. Lining the dish with foil makes cleaning up easy. With these tools, you’re ready to make a tasty Chicken Divan.
| Kitchen Essential | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 9×13-inch Casserole Dish | Baking the assembled Chicken Divan |
| Large Mixing Bowl | Combining sauce ingredients and folding in broccoli and chicken |
| Whisk | Blending the sauce components smoothly |
| Saucepan | Cooking the creamy sauce on the stovetop |
| Oven | Baking the Chicken Divan to a golden-brown finish |
| Cheese Grater | Finely shredding the Parmesan cheese topping |
With these tools, you’re set to make a delicious Chicken Divan. Your family will love it.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
To make the perfect Chicken Divan recipe sherry parmesan recipe, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, prepare the broccoli, the dish’s main ingredient. Blanch the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until they’re tender-crisp. After that, set them aside.
Preparing the Broccoli
Blanching the broccoli is key in this recipe. This method briefly boils the broccoli and then cools it in ice water. It keeps the broccoli green and crisp. Blanching ensures the broccoli cooks evenly and stays tender in the oven.
Making the Cream Sauce
The creamy sauce is the heart of Chicken Divan. Mix mayonnaise, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, sherry, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese in a bowl. Whisk until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Assembly Process
- In a baking dish, layer shredded chicken and blanched broccoli florets.
- Pour the prepared sherry cream sauce over the top, covering the chicken and broccoli evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese on top.
After assembling, bake the Chicken Divan in a preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. The whole process takes about 50 minutes.
Chicken Divan Recipe Sherry Parmesan Recipe
Try Chicken Divan, a creamy dish loved in America. It has tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a rich sauce. It’s perfect for any day, easy to make and loved by all.
The dish started in New York’s Divan Parisienne Restaurant. It’s famous for its sherry and parmesan flavors. These ingredients make the casserole special.
To make chicken divan sherry parmesan, start by blanching broccoli. Then, layer cooked chicken and broccoli in a dish. Mix mayonnaise, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, sherry, and parmesan cheese for the sauce. Pour it over the chicken and broccoli, and top with more parmesan.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes. The cheese should melt and the top should be golden. For a crispy top, broil for 2-3 minutes.
This easy baked chicken dish is tasty and flexible. You can freeze it for later or try different ingredients. It’s great for any meal.
Chicken Divan with Sherry Parmesan is perfect for any meal. It’s comforting and sure to please everyone.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts | 2-3 pounds |
| Fresh Broccoli | 1 1/2 pounds |
| Cream of Chicken Soup | 1 (10.5-ounce) can |
| Dry Sherry | 1/4 cup |
| Grated Parmesan | 1/2 cup |
Tips for Perfect Broccoli Preparation
To get the best taste and texture for your Chicken Divan, start with the right broccoli prep. The secret is to blanch fresh broccoli florets in boiling water for 3-4 minutes. This makes them tender but still crisp.
Then, quickly move the blanched broccoli to an ice bath. This stops the cooking and keeps the broccoli green.
If you’re using frozen broccoli, thaw it first and pat it dry. This removes extra moisture. Too much moisture can make the casserole soggy.
By using these broccoli cooking techniques, your Chicken Divan will have perfect flavors and textures. The blanching makes the broccoli just right. It’s soft but still crisp, which goes great with the creamy sauce and chicken.
“Perfectly prepared broccoli is the unsung hero of a great Chicken Divan. Nail the blanching process, and you’ll elevate the entire dish.”
Mastering blanching broccoli is key to a Chicken Divan that impresses everyone. It brings vibrant color, satisfying texture, and delicious flavors to the table.
Creating the Signature Sherry Cream Sauce
The secret to Chicken Divan’s flavor is the sherry cream sauce. This sauce, made with a roux, adds depth and richness. It’s the heart of the dish.
Proper Roux Technique
Start by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Then, whisk in an equal amount of flour, stirring constantly. This makes a smooth roux.
Cook the roux for 2-3 minutes. It should smell nutty and turn light golden. This step is crucial for the sherry cream sauce that makes Chicken Divan special.
Incorporating Sherry Wine
After the roux is ready, slowly add heavy cream and chicken broth. Whisk constantly to avoid lumps. Bring it to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until it thickens.
Then, stir in 1/4 cup of dry sherry. This adds a subtle complexity. The sherry makes the creamy casserole sauce truly special.
Mastering the roux and adding sherry creates a sherry cream sauce. It takes Chicken Divan to a whole new level, making it a true culinary delight.
Assembly and Layering Techniques
Making the perfect Chicken Divan casserole needs careful attention to layering. Start by spreading blanched broccoli florets evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish. This layer is the base for the chicken and creamy sauce that comes next.
Then, place shredded or cubed cooked chicken on top of the broccoli. Make sure the chicken is spread out evenly. This ensures each bite has the right mix of protein and veggies.
Finally, pour the sherry cream sauce over the chicken and broccoli. Be gentle to cover the whole area. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top for a golden-brown crust during baking.
| Preparation Step | Recommended Time |
|---|---|
| Blanching broccoli florets | 2-3 minutes |
| Baking Chicken Divan casserole | 25-30 minutes |
By using these layering steps, you’ll get a casserole with tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and creamy sauce. It’s all topped with a delicious Parmesan crust.
Baking Instructions and Temperature Guidelines
Getting the perfect Chicken Divan needs careful baking steps and temperature tips. To get a golden brown top and make sure it’s fully cooked, just follow these easy steps.
Optimal Cooking Time
First, heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). When it’s hot, bake the Chicken Divan for 25-30 minutes. This lets it cook well and get a bubbly, golden top.
Achieving the Golden Brown Top
To make the top even crisper, broil the Chicken Divan for 2-3 minutes after baking. Watch it closely to avoid burning or overcooking.
After baking, let the Chicken Divan rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set, making it easier to serve and enjoy.
| Baking Temperature | Baking Time | Broiling Time | Resting Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 350°F (175°C) | 25-30 minutes | 2-3 minutes | 5-10 minutes |
By sticking to these baking steps and temperature tips, your Chicken Divan recipe sherry parmesan recipe will be perfectly cooked. It will have a golden brown, crispy top that everyone will love.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
Chicken Divan is a well-balanced meal that offers a variety of essential nutrients. It features lean chicken, which is a great source of protein crucial for muscle repair and immune function. Broccoli, the other star ingredient, is rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious addition.
The Parmesan cheese in the recipe contributes calcium and additional protein. While Chicken Divan may be considered an indulgent dish due to its creamy texture, it can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or opting for low-fat cheese options.
- Chicken provides lean protein essential for muscle repair and immune function.
- Broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Parmesan cheese adds calcium and protein to the dish.
- Chicken Divan can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.
- For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or low-fat cheese.
“Chicken Divan is a protein-rich casserole that can be a delicious and nutritious part of a balanced meal.”
Make-Ahead and Storage Options
Chicken Divan is a delightful casserole perfect for busy weeknights or meal-prepping. It’s a freezer-friendly dish that can be made ahead of time. This ensures you have a tasty and convenient meal ready to go.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze Chicken Divan, just assemble it as directed. Cover it tightly with foil and freeze. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating Methods
- For individual portions, store leftover Chicken Divan in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave it for 1-2 minutes until hot.
- To reheat the whole casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place it in the oven and heat for 20-25 minutes. It should be hot and the top golden brown.
With these easy make-ahead and storage options, Chicken Divan is always ready. Freeze it for later or reheat leftovers with ease. This way, you can enjoy this delicious dish whenever you want.
“Chicken Divan is the ultimate freezer-friendly casserole, allowing you to enjoy a delicious and hassle-free meal whenever you need it.”
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
Chicken Divan is a creamy casserole that goes well with many side dishes. Serve it over fluffy white rice or egg noodles for a filling meal. These starches soak up the creamy sauce nicely.
A crisp green salad with light vinaigrette is a great side. It offers a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole. Crusty bread is also perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
Roasting carrots, asparagus, or broccoli adds a nice touch. These vegetables bring a fresh texture and flavor to the dish.
Choose a lightly oaked Chardonnay or crisp Sauvignon Blanc for wine. These whites complement the creamy and savory Chicken Divan.
Pairing Chicken Divan with the right sides and drinks makes for a memorable meal. The mix of flavors and textures creates a satisfying dining experience.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
The classic Chicken Divan recipe is very flexible. It can be adapted to fit different diets and tastes. You can make it low-carb, vegetarian, or try new flavors.
To make a low-carb version, use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs. Vegetarians can swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or tofu. Try different cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack for a unique sauce.
For a spicy twist, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. You can also add cooked rice or pasta for a one-pot meal. Use Greek yogurt and low-fat cheese for a lighter version.
| Variation | Ingredient Substitution |
|---|---|
| Low-Carb | Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds |
| Vegetarian | Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu |
| Cheese Alternatives | Use Gouda, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses |
| Spicy Version | Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes |
| One-Pot Meal | Incorporate cooked rice or pasta |
| Lighter Option | Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and low-fat cheese |
By trying these chicken divan variations, dietary adaptations, and ingredient substitutions, you can make Chicken Divan your own. It’s a great way to enjoy this classic dish in a new way.
“The beauty of Chicken Divan lies in its ability to be customized to individual preferences. With a little creativity, you can transform this dish into a culinary masterpiece that suits your taste buds and dietary requirements.”
Conclusion
Chicken Divan with sherry and Parmesan is a beloved comfort food. It’s a family-favorite casserole that’s easy to make and full of flavor. This dish is perfect for any meal, thanks to its creamy texture and rich taste.
Whether you follow the traditional recipe or try new twists, Chicken Divan is a must-have. It adds a touch of elegance to any meal. It’s loved by all, making it a great choice for any gathering.
Exploring Chicken Divan can be exciting. With the right ingredients and a bit of creativity, you can make it even better. It’s a dish that will stay in your heart and on your table for years to come.