Healthy Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan Easy Recipe

Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan is a delicious and easy recipe that combines chicken, broccoli, and a creamy sauce in a single dish. 

Why Is It Called Chicken Divan?

Chicken Divan got its name from the restaurant where it was created – Divan Parisien. This restaurant was located in the Chatham Hotel in New York City in the early 1900s. 

The chef at Divan Parisien, named Lagasi, invented the dish and it became the signature item on the menu. However, the original recipe is unknown since Lagasi refused to share the exact ingredients and method. 

Since then, many chefs have tried to replicate the classic chicken divan recipe. Generally, it consists of chicken breasts served over broccoli and topped with a creamy cheese sauce flavored with Parmesan cheese. 

This casserole dish became extremely popular in the 1950s. During this time, it was a favorite for entertaining and parties since it was easy to make but tasted quite luxurious. Chicken Divan could also easily feed a large crowd. 

Over the decades, the recipe has evolved with many variations emerging. However, the name “chicken divan” remains because of its origins at the Divan Parisien restaurant in New York City in the early 1900s. The classic dish got its name directly from the restaurant where the chef first created and popularized this unique chicken and broccoli casserole.

Is Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan Recipe Healthy?

Barefoot Contessa’s Chicken Divan recipe can be part of a healthy diet when eaten in moderation. While it provides nutrients from the chicken and broccoli, the cream and butter used do contribute to its richness. 

The recipe gets protein, vitamins, and minerals from both the chicken and broccoli. However, the cream sauce adds calories, fat, and sodium. Nonetheless, for most people enjoying it occasionally in reasonable portions, it can fit within a well-balanced meal plan.

That being said, some adjustments could make the dish healthier. For example, one could use half-and-half instead of heavy cream to decrease saturated fat. Substituting part of the butter with olive oil also lowers fat content. 

Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan Ingredients 

Cooked, diced chicken

• This provides the main protein for the dish. The chicken should be cooked and diced into bite-sized pieces.

Broccoli florets

• Either fresh or frozen broccoli florets can be used. Broccoli adds color, nutrition and flavor to the recipe. 

Unsalted butter

• Butter is used for sautéing the broccoli to soften it. It also adds richness throughout the creamy sauce.

Fresh sage  

• Just a few sage leaves are added. Sage lends an aromatic, earthy flavor to the overall dish.

All-purpose flour

• A small amount of flour acts as a thickening agent. It helps thicken and bind the sauce ingredients.

Milk  

• Milk is gradually whisked into the sauce. This contributes to its smooth and creamy texture.

Heavy cream

• Cream enhances the richness and creaminess of the white sauce pouring over the chicken and broccoli.  

Dry sherry or chicken broth

• Either adds depth and complexity to the sauce. Sherry provides a subtle wine flavor.

Low-sodium chicken broth 

• Another way to boost savory chicken flavors throughout the dish.

Grated Gruyere cheese

• This cheese mixes into the sauce, imparting a rich, nutty taste.

Grated Parmesan cheese 

• Parmesan lends a salty, sharp savoriness to the creamy concoction.

Breadcrumbs

• Sprinkled over the top, breadcrumbs add a crispy, golden brown finish.

Seasonings

• Salt, pepper and freshly grated nutmeg elevate all the flavors put together.

How To Make Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan recipe?

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Grease a 3-quart casserole dish with butter. 

2. Boil water in a saucepan and cook 5 cups of broccoli florets until crisp-tender. 

3. In another saucepan, melt 5 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add 1 tbsp of chopped fresh sage. 

4. Then, add 5 tbsp of flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. 

5. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream until thickened. 

6. Add 3 tbsp of sherry, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Continue whisking.

7. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded Gruyere cheese until melted. 

8. Add the cooked broccoli and 3 1/2 cups of cooked chicken. Stir to combine.  

9. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. 

10. Top with 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup breadcrumbs.

11. Bake for 35 minutes, until hot and golden brown.

How To Reheat Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan ?

Oven:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. 

2. Place the leftover Chicken Divan in a greased baking dish or leave as is.

3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. 

4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and warmed through. 

5. You can broil for a few minutes to achieve a golden brown appearance.

Microwave: 

1. Reheat the entire dish in 2 minutes or heat pieces individually for 30 seconds each.

Stove:

1. Gently reheat the Chicken Divan in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. 

2. Stir frequently to heat through.

How To Store Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan

In the Fridge:

1. Store the leftovers in the fridge for 3-4 days. 

2. You can leave it in the original casserole dish. Then, cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out. 

In the Freezer:  

1. For longer storage, freeze within 2 days of preparing the dish.

2. Transfer it to an airtight freezer container or sealable freezer bag. 

3. It will maintain quality in the freezer for 2-3 months.

4. To thaw, move the frozen container to the fridge. Leave adequate time for slow thawing before reheating safely. 

What To Serve With Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan?

1. Rice 

 A classic side that provides a starchy base to complement the rich flavors. 

2. Mashed Potatoes 

Versatile and comforting, mashed potatoes can be flavored to pair nicely.

3. Noodles 

Different textures and flavors from pasta dishes create a great accompaniment.

4. Cornbread 

 Adds a savory-sweet element that balances the rich dish well. 

5. Steamed Vegetables 

Options like broccoli provide nutrition and flavor contrast. 

6. Salads 

Fresh salads add lightness and refreshment to the meal like tomato or cucumber.

Ingredients 

• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided, plus more for greasing

• Kosher salt, to taste

• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into 1- to 2-inch florets, tender stems peeled and cut into ½-inch slices (about 5 cups)

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage

• 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 3 tablespoons dry sherry (or chicken broth)

• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 cup milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 pinch of freshly grated nutmeg

• Freshly ground pepper, to taste

• 6 cups cooked, diced chicken

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided

• 2 to 3 cups cubed cooked chicken

• 2 (10-ounce) packages of frozen broccoli spears or florets

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided

• 2 to 3 cups cubed cooked chicken

• 2 cups cooked rice

• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs