Description
This low-carb chicken divan is a creamy, cheesy casserole filled with tender chicken and bright green broccoli. It’s a healthier take on the classic comfort dish, perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or make-ahead freezer meals.
Ingredients
1 pound broccoli florets (about 8 cups)
8 ounces cream cheese
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
1 tablespoon curry powder
2 teaspoons chicken bouillon paste or 2 chicken bouillon cubes
4 cups cooked, shredded chicken
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Cooked rice or cauliflower rice, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), with a rack in the center position.
- Cook the broccoli: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add broccoli florets and cook until bright green and slightly tender, about 3 minutes. Drain well.
- Prepare the sauce: In a medium heatproof bowl, combine cream cheese, heavy cream, mayonnaise, sour cream, curry powder, and chicken bouillon. Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until the cream cheese is softened, up to 3 minutes. Whisk until smooth.
- Assemble the casserole: In a 9×13-inch baking dish or a 12-inch ovenproof skillet, combine the shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, and cream sauce. Mix until well incorporated.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbling, about 35 minutes.
- Serve: Enjoy warm on its own, or over cooked rice or cauliflower rice if desired.
Notes
- Chicken: Poaching your chicken ahead of time makes assembly quicker. Leftover rotisserie chicken works well.
- Broccoli: Steam until just tender to avoid mushy texture after baking.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives more flavor, but any melty cheese will work.
- Curry powder: Adds depth and warmth without overpowering; adjust to taste.
- Serving: Low-carb friendly without rice, but pairing with cauliflower rice mimics a classic casserole experience.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 45min