Enjoy the chicken divan, a creamy casserole that’s a family hit. It’s made with tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a sauce that’s rich with sherry and Parmesan cheese. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a fancy dinner party.
Key Takeaways
- The classic chicken divan is a creamy, comforting casserole that’s a family favorite
- The addition of sherry and Parmesan cheese elevates the flavors of this dish
- This recipe is easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights or special occasions
- The combination of tender chicken and crisp broccoli creates a satisfying and nutritious meal
- This dish can be made ahead of time and frozen for future use, making it a convenient choice
Essential Ingredients for Your Chicken Divan Recipe Sherry Parmesan Recipe
Making the perfect Chicken Divan needs the right ingredients. You’ll need juicy chicken breasts and fresh broccoli. Each part is crucial for the dish’s flavors and textures.
The chicken breasts are key. Choose plump, tender cuts without blemishes. This keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
The recipe also calls for fresh broccoli. Look for vibrant, tight florets. They should be a deep green, showing they’re fresh and nutritious.
The creamy sauce is made with cream of chicken soup and dry sherry. The soup makes the sauce velvety, while the sherry adds a sophisticated flavor.
No Chicken Divan is complete without grated Parmesan cheese. It adds a nutty, salty taste that complements the other ingredients.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts | 2-3 pounds | Provides the main protein and structure of the dish |
| Fresh Broccoli | 1 1/2 pounds | Adds texture, color, and nutritional value |
| Cream of Chicken Soup | 1 (10.5-ounce) can | Creates a creamy, binding sauce |
| Dry Sherry | 1/4 cup | Enhances the overall flavor profile |
| Grated Parmesan | 1/2 cup | Adds a savory, nutty topping |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious Chicken Divan. It will impress your family and guests.
Preparation Steps and Cooking Techniques
Making the perfect Chicken Divan Sherry Parmesan recipe needs focus and the right cooking methods. Let’s go through the steps to make sure your casserole is delicious.
Preparing the Broccoli and Chicken
Start by blanching the broccoli to keep its bright color and crisp texture. Boil the florets for 2-3 minutes, then cool them in an ice bath. This step keeps the broccoli tender and fresh.
Then, poach the chicken breasts until they’re fully cooked. This method makes the meat soft and juicy, ideal for shredding or slicing.
Making the Sherry Cream Sauce
The core of the Chicken Divan is the roux-based sherry cream sauce. Begin by making a roux with butter and flour. Then, add heavy cream, chicken broth, and sherry wine. Simmer until it’s smooth and thick.
Assembly Instructions
- Layer the blanched broccoli at the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the poached chicken on top of the broccoli.
- Pour the sherry cream sauce over the chicken and broccoli, making sure it covers everything.
- Spread grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake the casserole until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 25-30 minutes.
With these steps and techniques, you’re ready to make a stunning Chicken Divan Sherry Parmesan dish.
Tips for Perfect Cheese and Sauce Consistency
Getting the creamy sauce and melted cheese just right is key for a great Chicken Divan. Here are some expert tips to help you avoid curdling and make your dish perfect every time.
To prevent curdling, watch the temperature when making the sherry cream sauce. Slowly add the dairy ingredients and keep the heat low. Never let the sauce boil too hard. Adding cheese in small amounts while the sauce is cool helps it melt smoothly.
If your sauce is too thin, try these thickening methods:
- Mix a small amount of cornstarch or flour with water to make a slurry. Then, whisk it into the simmering sauce.
- Reduce the sauce over low heat, stirring often, until it’s the right thickness.
- For an extra-creamy sauce, blend in a bit of cold butter at the end.
If the sauce is too thick, add a little warm milk or broth to thin it. Make small changes and taste as you go. This way, you’ll get the creamy sauce consistency that goes well with the chicken and cheese.
“The secret to a truly memorable Chicken Divan is all in the sauce – it should be velvety smooth and full of flavor, without any hint of curdling or separation.”
Make-Ahead and Storage Options
Chicken Divan is a great choice for meal prep because it’s freezer-friendly. It can be stored for later. These tips will help you enjoy your casserole even more.
Freezing Guidelines
You can freeze Chicken Divan before or after baking. To freeze it unbaked, just assemble the casserole and cover it tightly. Then, thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
Baked Chicken Divan also freezes well. Let it cool completely, then cover and freeze. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 45-60 minutes from frozen.
Reheating Instructions
- Thaw the frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Transfer the thawed Chicken Divan to an oven-safe dish and cover loosely with foil.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through and bubbling at the edges.
- Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious, freezer-friendly casserole!
Using meal prep and leftover storage options makes Chicken Divan convenient. With the right reheating methods, it will taste as good as the first time.
Conclusion
The Chicken Divan recipe with sherry and Parmesan is a true gem in American cuisine. It’s perfect for both family meals and dinner parties. The dish combines savory chicken, tender broccoli, and a creamy sherry sauce, topped with melted Parmesan.
This classic casserole is great for any occasion. It’s both comforting and elegant. It’s a recipe that families across the United States love and cherish.
So, why not try Chicken Divan with sherry and Parmesan? It’s sure to become a favorite in your home. It offers a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
FAQ
What is the history of the classic chicken divan recipe?
The chicken divan recipe started in New York City’s Divan Parisien Restaurant. It was a French-inspired casserole. Over time, it became a favorite in America, loved for its creamy texture and rich flavors.
Why are sherry and Parmesan cheese important ingredients in this recipe?
Sherry and Parmesan cheese make the chicken divan special. The sherry adds a subtle complexity. The Parmesan cheese brings a savory umami flavor that goes well with the other ingredients.
What are the essential ingredients needed for this chicken divan recipe?
You’ll need chicken breasts, fresh broccoli, cream of chicken soup, dry sherry, and grated Parmesan cheese. These ingredients combine to give the dish its unique taste and texture.
How do you prepare the broccoli and chicken for the chicken divan recipe?
Start by blanching the broccoli to keep its color and texture. For the chicken, poaching is best. It keeps the meat tender and juicy.
How do you make the sherry cream sauce for the chicken divan?
The sherry cream sauce is key. It’s made by mixing butter, flour, and chicken broth to create a roux. Then, add sherry and cream for a smooth, velvety sauce.
What are some tips for getting the perfect cheese and sauce consistency in the chicken divan?
For the best cheese and sauce, avoid curdling and ensure even melting. Adjust the sauce’s thickness as needed. Use the right techniques for a creamy texture.
Can you make the chicken divan recipe ahead of time and freeze it?
Yes, you can! Chicken divan is perfect for making ahead and freezing. Assemble the casserole, cover it, and freeze before or after baking. Just thaw and reheat for a convenient meal.