ππ₯¦ππ©βπ³β²οΈ
Chicken Divan is a classic American casserole dish that features tender pieces of chicken and broccoli florets, all baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a comforting and delicious dish that has been a favorite in many households for decades.
History:
The exact origin of Chicken Divan is a bit unclear, but it’s believed to have been created at the Divan Parisienne Restaurant in the Chatham Hotel in New York City during the early 20th century. The dish was named after the restaurant, which was a popular dining spot at the time. Over the years, it gained popularity and became a staple in American cuisine.
Components:
- Chicken: Typically, cooked chicken is used, and you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. It’s often shredded or cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Broccoli: Fresh or frozen broccoli florets are used, and they add a delightful green color and a slightly crisp texture to the dish.
- Sauce: The creamy sauce is made from a combination of mayonnaise, condensed cream of chicken soup, curry powder, lemon juice, and grated cheese. The sauce is what gives Chicken Divan its rich and flavorful character.
Steps to Prepare Chicken Divan:
-
Prep the Chicken: If you’re not using leftover cooked chicken, start by cooking the chicken. You can poach it, bake it, or even use rotisserie chicken for added convenience. Shred or dice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
-
Prepare the Broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli until it’s tender but still vibrant green. You can also use frozen broccoli that has been thawed and drained.
-
Make the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, condensed cream of chicken soup, a touch of curry powder, lemon juice, and grated cheese. Mix until the ingredients are well combined. This sauce is what gives Chicken Divan its signature flavor.
-
Layer the Dish: In a baking dish, arrange the cooked chicken and broccoli. Pour the sauce evenly over them. You can also sprinkle some extra grated cheese on top for extra cheesiness.
-
Bake: Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at around 350Β°F (175Β°C) and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
-
Serve: Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Then, serve it hot, either on its own or with a side like rice or crusty bread.
Time Needed:
The time needed to prepare Chicken Divan can vary, but on average, it takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour from start to finish. Cooking the chicken and baking the casserole are the most time-consuming steps.
Enjoy your delicious Chicken Divan! π½οΈπ
ππ₯¦ππ₯
Here are the approximate nutrition facts and some health information for Chicken Divan. Please note that these values can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, based on a typical serving size):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 calories per serving.
- Protein: Provides a good source of protein, primarily from the chicken.
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-25 grams per serving, with variations based on the recipe.
- Dietary Fiber: Provides some fiber from the broccoli.
- Fats: Contains fats from the mayonnaise, cheese, and any additional ingredients used. The exact amount can vary based on your recipe.
- Sodium: Can be relatively high due to ingredients like condensed soup and cheese, so it’s advisable to use low-sodium options if you’re concerned about sodium intake.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Chicken Divan provides essential nutrients like calcium, potassium, vitamin C from the broccoli, and protein.
Health Information:
- Protein: Chicken Divan is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Fiber: The broccoli in this dish adds some dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health and can help you feel full and satisfied.
- Calcium: The cheese in the sauce provides calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth.
- Vitamins: Broccoli is rich in vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that supports the immune system.
- Moderation: While Chicken Divan is a delicious dish, it can be high in calories, saturated fats, and sodium, especially if made with traditional ingredients. To make it a healthier option, you can use reduced-fat ingredients, whole-grain options, and control portion sizes. Additionally, consider balancing your meal with plenty of vegetables and lean protein.
As with any dish, the key to enjoying Chicken Divan while maintaining a healthy diet is moderation and making ingredient choices that align with your dietary goals and restrictions. π½οΈπ₯πββοΈ
