Chicken Divan with Sherry & Parmesan: Creamy Comfort Food!

The Ultimate Guide to Chicken Divan with Sherry and Parmesan

There’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy casserole to bring everyone to the table. Chicken Divan, a classic dish with chicken and broccoli in a rich sauce, takes on a gourmet twist when you add the dynamic duo of sherry and Parmesan. It’s comfort food with a touch of elegance, and guess what? You don’t need to be a master chef to nail this recipe. Ready to turn your kitchen into a five-star restaurant? Let’s get started! 🍗🧀

Introduction to chicken divan recipe sherry parmesan recipe

What is chicken divan recipe sherry parmesan recipe?

Chicken Divan is a traditional casserole dish that’s been gracing dinner tables for decades. Originating in the early 20th century, it typically combines tender chicken, steamed broccoli, and a creamy sauce, all baked together and topped with crispy breadcrumbs. Think of it as a warm hug on a plate.

But what makes this dish truly timeless? It’s incredibly versatile and adaptable. You can tweak the ingredients, try different toppings, and even make it healthier without sacrificing flavor. That’s a win-win, don’t you think? 🙌

Why Add Sherry and Parmesan to Chicken Divan?

Now, here’s where the magic happens. Adding sherry—a fortified wine with a slightly nutty and sweet taste—takes the sauce from simple to sensational. It’s like upgrading a song with a killer guitar solo 🎸. And Parmesan? That’s the cherry on top, delivering a savory, umami kick that makes the dish unforgettable.

Block Quote:
“Sherry adds depth to the sauce, while Parmesan creates a cheesy crust that’s worth fighting over.”

Ingredients for Chicken divan recipe sherry parmesan recipe

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather our ingredients. Having everything ready makes cooking a breeze (and prevents those frantic mid-recipe grocery runs!).

Essential Ingredients for the Classic Recipe

Here’s your shopping list for a killer Chicken Divan:

Ingredient	Quantity
Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)	2 large
Broccoli florets	4 cups
Unsalted butter	3 tbsp
All-purpose flour	3 tbsp
Chicken broth	1 ½ cups
Heavy cream	1 cup
Sherry	⅓ cup
Grated Parmesan cheese	1 cup
Cheddar cheese (shredded)	1 cup
Breadcrumbs	½ cup
Garlic powder	1 tsp
Salt	1 tsp
Black pepper	½ tsp

Optional Add-Ons and Variations

Want to customize your Chicken Divan? Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Add mushrooms for an earthy flavor 🍄.
• Substitute cauliflower for broccoli to keep things low-carb.
• Toss in a pinch of nutmeg to highlight the creaminess of the sauce.

Pro Tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor. The pre-packaged stuff just doesn’t cut it. Trust me on this! 🧀

Equipment You’ll Need

You don’t need a fancy setup to make this dish, but having the right tools can make things smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

Must-Have Tools for Preparation

• Large skillet: For cooking the chicken and making the sauce.
• Steamer or microwave: To steam the broccoli.
• Casserole dish: A 9×13-inch dish works perfectly for this recipe.
• Whisk: Crucial for creating a smooth sauce.
• Spatula: For layering and spreading the ingredients evenly.

Kitchen Tips for Efficiency

• Chop your broccoli while the chicken cooks to save time.
• Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken if you’re in a rush.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we’ve got everything ready, let’s get to the fun part—making your Chicken Divan!

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Steam the Broccoli: In a steamer or microwave, cook the broccoli until tender but still crisp. You want it to hold its shape in the casserole. Set it aside to cool.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a tablespoon of butter. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and cook until golden on both sides (about 5 minutes per side). Remove from the pan and slice into bite-sized pieces.

Making the Sherry-Parmesan Sauce

Here’s where the real magic begins! ✨

1. Start the Roux: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste.
2. Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and sherry. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
3. Mix in Cheeses: Reduce the heat and stir in half the Parmesan and all the cheddar. Watch as the sauce turns into a cheesy, gooey dream.

Block Quote:
“Making the sauce is like building the foundation of a skyscraper—strong, rich, and ready to hold up all the other flavors.”

Assembling and Baking the chicken divan recipe sherry parmesan recipe

1. Layer the Ingredients: In your casserole dish, spread the broccoli evenly across the bottom. Top it with the sliced chicken, and then pour the sauce over everything, making sure it coats every nook and cranny.
2. Add Toppings: Sprinkle breadcrumbs and the remaining Parmesan over the top for that crispy, golden finish.
3. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is bubbling and golden.

Common Problems and Solutions

Cooking doesn’t always go as planned, but don’t worry—we’ve got fixes for the most common hiccups.

Sauce Too Thin or Too Thick?

• If it’s too thin, add a little more cheese or let it simmer longer.
• Too thick? Stir in a splash of milk or chicken broth.

Overcooked or Undercooked Chicken

• Use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• If it’s undercooked, slice it smaller and let it finish baking in the casserole.

Balancing the Sherry Flavor

• Not a fan of strong sherry? Reduce the amount to 2 tablespoons, or swap it with white wine for a milder taste.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	520
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fat	32g
Sodium	870mg

The Ultimate Guide to chicken divan recipe sherry parmesan recipe

Variations on the chicken divan recipe sherry parmesan recipe

What makes Chicken Divan so fantastic is its adaptability. You can tweak it to suit your dietary needs or just mix things up for fun. Let’s explore some creative variations that will keep this dish exciting!

Gluten-Free Chicken Divan

Trying to avoid gluten? No problem! Replace the all-purpose flour in the sauce with a gluten-free alternative, like cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. For the breadcrumb topping, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The result? All the flavor, none of the gluten!

Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Options

Cutting back on carbs? Swap out the flour entirely and use xanthan gum as a thickener for the sauce. Replace the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds for a keto-approved crunch. As for the broccoli, it’s already a keto superstar, so load it up!

Vegetarian and Vegan Substitutes

For a vegetarian version, ditch the chicken and load up on roasted vegetables like zucchini, cauliflower, or mushrooms. To go vegan, use plant-based cream, dairy-free cheeses, and nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor. You can even swap the sherry for vegetable broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist.

Tips for the Best Chicken Divan

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these tips will help you nail your Chicken Divan every time.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

• Use fresh broccoli for the best texture. Frozen works in a pinch, but it can get mushy if overcooked.
• Go for high-quality Parmesan and cheddar. Trust me, it makes a huge difference in flavor.

Ensuring a Golden, Crispy Topping

• Combine your breadcrumbs with a drizzle of melted butter before sprinkling them on top. This helps them brown evenly.
• Add a sprinkle of paprika for extra color and flavor.

Block Quote:
“The secret to a perfect topping is balance—crispy enough to crunch, cheesy enough to melt.”

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Divan

While Chicken Divan is a star on its own, the right sides and drinks can take your meal to the next level. Here’s how to create a complete dining experience.

Best Side Dishes to Pair with Chicken Divan

• Rice: Classic white or brown rice soaks up that creamy sauce perfectly.
• Mashed Potatoes: For an extra indulgent option, pair the casserole with buttery mashed potatoes 🥔.
• Garlic Bread: Because who doesn’t love bread with a cheesy casserole?

Wine and Beverage Pairings

Sherry already adds a touch of sophistication, so why not pair your meal with:

• White wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Sparkling water with lemon: For a refreshing, non-alcoholic option.

Nutritional Information

Let’s take a closer look at what’s in each serving of this delicious casserole. Here’s the breakdown:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	520
Protein	35g
Fat	32g
Saturated Fat	15g
Carbohydrates	18g
Dietary Fiber	4g
Sodium	870mg
Vitamin A	35% (of DV)
Calcium	40% (of DV)

Pro Tip: Want to lighten things up? Swap heavy cream for half-and-half and reduce the amount of cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Substitute Sherry for Something Else?

Absolutely! If you don’t have sherry on hand, try white wine or even chicken broth with a splash of apple cider vinegar. The goal is to add depth to the sauce, so experiment with what you have.

How Do I Store and Reheat Chicken Divan?

• Storing: Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Block Quote:
“Reheating leftovers is like reliving a delicious memory—just as good the second time around.”

What’s the Best Cheese Alternative for Parmesan?

If Parmesan isn’t your thing, Asiago, Romano, or even Gruyere are excellent substitutes. They bring their own unique twist to the dish while maintaining that cheesy goodness.

Conclusion

Recap: Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

Chicken Divan with sherry and Parmesan is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of comfort and flavor. From the creamy sauce to the crispy topping, every bite is an experience worth savoring.

Encouragement to Experiment and Share

Cooking is all about creativity. Don’t be afraid to tweak this recipe and make it your own. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish is sure to impress. And hey, if you loved it, why not share it with friends and family? After all, good food is meant to be shared. 🍽️💛

Looking to broaden your recipe repertoire? Check out the Easy Shrimp Garlic Butter Recipe for another decadent meal idea.