Amy S Chicken Divan Casserole Recipe

This Amy's Chicken Divan Casserole recipe is a lighter, healthier twist on a classic comfort food! Enjoy tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy, flavorful sauce all baked to perfection in one pan. Made with white whole wheat flour, fat-free half-and-half, and low-sodium chicken broth, this recipe is surprisingly light yet bursting with flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it's sure to become a family favorite. Serve with a Caesar or tossed salad for a complete meal.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 45 mins
Calories 760 kcal
Protein 92g
Rating 4.0 (1 Reviews)
Amy S Chicken Divan Casserole

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Amy S Chicken Divan Casserole

  • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
  • Fresh Broccoli
  • Brown Rice
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • ¼ cup white whole wheat flour
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup fat-free half-and-half
  • Sherry Wine
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Nutmeg
  • Breadcrumbs

How to Make Amy S Chicken Divan Casserole

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook Rice: In a large saucepan, combine 4 cups water and 2 cups long-grain white rice. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 35-40 minutes, or until tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
  3. Roast Chicken: While rice cooks, toss 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper. Roast in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
  4. Steam Broccoli: Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add 1 lb broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bright green. Immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking. Drain and set aside.
  5. Make the Sauce: In a heavy saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Whisk in ¼ cup white whole wheat flour and cook for 3 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth until thickened. Stir in 1 cup fat-free half-and-half, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ cup dry sherry (optional), 2 tbsp lemon juice, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper.
  6. Assemble Casserole: Grease a 10x13 inch casserole dish. Layer cooked rice, then broccoli, then half of the cream sauce. Top with sliced chicken, remaining cream sauce, ½ cup bread crumbs, and the remaining ½ cup Parmesan cheese.
  7. Bake: Bake uncovered for 45 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.
  8. Serve: Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy with a side salad!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

42 g

Sugar

26g

Fat

66g

Carbs

27g