Craving a delicious, comforting meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this creamy Chicken Divan with Rice! This classic dish is a perfect blend of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, cheesy sauce, all served over fluffy rice. It's a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner, a satisfying weekend lunch, or even a delightful family gathering. This recipe is a celebration of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a healthy meal that's both delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups cooked rice
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, sauté the onion until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the broccoli florets and cook until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir until smooth and creamy. Then, stir in the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Gently stir to coat the chicken and broccoli in the creamy sauce. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the Chicken Divan over a bed of fluffy cooked rice. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. This dish is best served immediately, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips for the Best Chicken Divan:
- Don't overcook the broccoli: You want it to be tender-crisp, not mushy.
- Use fresh herbs: Adding a tablespoon of fresh parsley or chives before serving elevates the flavor.
- Adjust the cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyere or Swiss.
- Add some spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
Variations:
- Chicken Divan with Pasta: Substitute cooked pasta for the rice.
- Lightened-Up Chicken Divan: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier option.
- Vegetarian Chicken Divan: Replace the chicken with roasted vegetables like cauliflower or butternut squash.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This Chicken Divan recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It's a versatile recipe that can easily be adapted to your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make meal!