Pioneer Woman Chicken Divan Recipe

This chicken divan has everything a great casserole should—creamy sauce, tender chicken, and a golden, crispy topping.

It’s SO good, you guys!

I make sure to season every layer well, especially the chicken, so every bite is balanced and nothing tastes bland.

Broccoli should be tender but still have a bit of bite, which is why I steam it lightly instead of boiling it too long.

The crunchy topping made from panko and a little butter is the best part—it bakes up golden and adds just the right texture.

Serving this right out of the oven, with the cheese bubbling on top is just pure heaven!

How to Make Pioneer Woman Chicken Divan

Ingredients

• 2 cups Chicken (cooked and shredded)
• 4 cups Broccoli Florets (fresh)
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
• 1 cup Milk
• 1 cup Sour Cream
• 1 can Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 oz.)
• 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp Butter (melted)
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F.

Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish for easy cleanup.

Step 2:

Steam the broccoli florets for about 5 minutes until they’re tender yet still crisp.

Set them aside.

Step 3:

In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper.

Mix until smooth and evenly blended.

Step 4:

Spread the cooked chicken and steamed broccoli in the prepared baking dish.

Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the top, making sure it coats everything evenly.

Step 5:

In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and melted butter.

Spread the mixture over the casserole’s top.

Step 6:

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the breadcrumb layer.

Let it melt beautifully in the oven!

Step 7:

Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and breadcrumbs are golden brown.

Let it cool slightly before serving.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choosing the Right Chicken

If pressed for time, rotisserie chicken is your best friend.

It’s flavorful and saves you a cooking step!

You can also use leftover chicken from another meal to cut down on prep time.

Enhancing the Flavor

Adding a pinch of curry powder or dry mustard to the sauce can give this dish a unique and tasty twist.

You might be surprised how much depth that little extra seasoning can provide.

Perfect Breadcrumbs

Opt for panko breadcrumbs for the perfect crunchy topping.

Mix them with a bit of melted butter so they toast to a golden perfection when baked in the oven.

Remember that fresh breadcrumbs can also add nice texture, but panko really steals the show.

Checking for Doneness

Always check if the casserole has turned golden brown with an inviting bubbly cheese top before taking it out.

That’s your key indicator that all flavors have melded together beautifully.

What to Serve with Pioneer Woman Chicken Divan

Fresh Green Salad

You can’t go wrong with a fresh green salad next to your Chicken Divan.

It’s light, refreshing, and complements the rich and creamy texture of the main dish beautifully.

Sprinkle some nuts or seeds for that pleasant crunch and extra nutrition.

Sliced Raw Tomatoes

Sliced raw tomatoes are a simple yet effective side to serve with your meal.

Their juicy, tangy flavor provides a nice contrast to the savory casserole.

Add a sprinkle of salt and a drizzle of olive oil. It’s lovely!

Steamed Broccoli

Steamed broccoli is a classic side for this dish, providing a nutrient boost and vibrant color.

The subtle sweetness and slight crispiness of steamed broccoli work well with the creamy goodness of Chicken Divan.

It’s always a reliable choice!

Quinoa and Sweet Potato Salad

Try something a bit different with a quinoa and sweet potato salad.

The mild nuttiness of the quinoa along with the sweet, earthy flavor of the sweet potatoes offers an unexpected twist.

Feel free to add in some dried cranberries for a bit of sweetness.

Roasted Carrot and Parsnip Medley

Roasted vegetables are always a win, and a carrot and parsnip medley is no exception.

These vegetables get beautifully caramelized in the oven, bringing out their natural sweetness.

This side dish will offer a warm, tasty contrast to your Chicken Divan.

Garlic Bread

Add some cozy comfort with a side of garlic bread.

It’s perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce of the divan.

Plus, who can resist crispy bread with a garlic kick?

Variations and Substitutions

If you want to shake up your Pioneer Woman Chicken Divan, you’ve got plenty of options!

You can swap the chicken breasts for thighs if you’re a fan of darker, juicier meat.

Feeling adventurous? Try using cauliflower instead of broccoli.

For those who love cheese, mix in whatever shredded cheese you have at hand—it all melts beautifully!

Creamy Base

Using homemade condensed soup instead of canned can give your dish a fresh twist.

It’s a great way to reduce the sodium content and control the flavors in the dish.

Protein Alternatives

If you don’t have fresh chicken available, you can certainly use a store-bought rotisserie chicken.

It saves time and adds a different texture to your meal.

With just a few tweaks, you can make this dish uniquely yours and enjoy every bite!

Experimenting with different variations can make preparing this dish even more enjoyable!

How to Store Leftover Pioneer Woman Chicken Divan

Storing your leftover Pioneer Woman Chicken Divan is a breeze if you follow these steps.

Wrap the leftover casserole tightly with aluminum foil or transfer it to an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Refrigeration Timeframe

You can confidently store your leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three to five days.

To keep it tasting as fresh as possible, finish up within this timeframe.

Freezing Option

Freezing is an option, but not recommended for every kind of casserole!

Avoid freezing as it might alter the texture of your chicken divan.

Preparing for Next Meal

If storing in the same casserole dish, make sure it’s covered well to preserve flavor.

An airtight container not only saves space but locks in taste and prevents it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the Wrong Mayonnaise

Don’t be tempted to grab the sweet stuff.

Stick with a savory mayo like Duke’s for the right richness in your Chicken Divan.

Incorrect Cracker Topping Timing

Adding crackers too early can make them soggy.

Wait until just before serving to sprinkle your Ritz cracker topping.

You’ll get that crisp texture that makes the dish so special.

Forgetting the Broccoli

Skip watery broccoli by gently steaming it before adding it to the casserole.

This step keeps the broccoli vibrant and flavorful, ensuring it pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Adjust cooking time based on your preference for broccoli softness.