Craving a creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further than this Barefoot Contessa-inspired Chicken Divan recipe! This classic comfort food is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a potluck contribution, or a cozy night in. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this recipe delivers big on flavor and satisfaction with minimal effort. Get ready to experience a delicious and healthy meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped broccoli florets
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned.
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
Add the frozen broccoli florets to the skillet with the chicken. Pour in about 1/4 cup of water, cover the skillet, and reduce the heat to medium-low. Steam the broccoli until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Parmesan cheese, and mayonnaise. This creates a luxuriously creamy base for your divan.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and broccoli in the skillet. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Finally, add a generous layer of breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispy topping).
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is golden brown and bubbly. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Chicken Divan:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large quantity of chicken, consider cooking it in batches to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or other seasonings to suit your taste. Garlic powder or onion powder would be delicious additions.
- Use fresh broccoli: If you prefer, you can substitute fresh broccoli florets for the frozen variety. Just be sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces and steam them until tender-crisp before adding them to the skillet.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve your Chicken Divan with a side of rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a satisfying and well-rounded meal.
Variations:
- Add some spice: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the creamy sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use different cheese: Experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyère, Fontina, or a blend of your favorites.
- Add other vegetables: Enhance the dish with other vegetables like peas, carrots, or mushrooms.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Protein: 30-35g Fat: 25-30g Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Barefoot Contessa-inspired Chicken Divan recipe is a delightful blend of ease and deliciousness. It’s the perfect example of how simple, homemade cooking can deliver extraordinary results, making it a truly satisfying and healthy meal option for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy!