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?

Before you begin assembling your casserole, it’s important to preheat your oven and prepare the baking dish.

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature by the time you assemble and bake the dish.
2. Grease the Baking Dish – Lightly butter a 3-quart casserole dish. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier while adding a slight richness to the base of the dish.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

For the best texture, broccoli should be cooked briefly to maintain its bright color and slight crunch.

1. Boil Water – Fill a large saucepan with water and add a generous pinch of salt. The salt enhances the broccoli’s natural flavor.
2. Blanch the Broccoli – Add fresh broccoli florets to the boiling water. Let them cook for 2–3 minutes until they turn bright green and become crisp-tender. This step helps retain texture and flavor while preventing the broccoli from becoming mushy during baking.
3. Drain and Set Aside – Quickly drain the broccoli in a colander and rinse with cold water (optional). If using frozen broccoli, ensure it’s thawed and well-drained before adding it to the casserole.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

The creamy sauce is the heart of this casserole, made with butter, flour, cheese, and a blend of rich liquids.

1. Melt Butter – In a medium saucepan, melt 5 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Infuse with Sage – Add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh sage to the melted butter. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, releasing its earthy and slightly peppery aroma.
3. Make the Roux – Whisk in 5 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes until the flour turns a light golden color. This step is crucial as it eliminates the raw flour taste and creates a thickening base for the sauce.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Cheese

Incorporate Dairy and Broth – Slowly pour in:

• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

Keep whisking continuously to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth, velvety sauce.

Enhance the Flavor – Stir in:

• 3 tablespoons dry sherry (or replace with extra chicken broth) for a subtle depth of flavor.
• 1 pinch of freshly grated nutmeg to add warmth.
• 1 teaspoon salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Melt the Cheese – Add 1 ½ cups of shredded Gruyere cheese and stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is thick and smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Now that all components are ready, it’s time to combine them into the baking dish.

1. Combine Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, combine:
   • 3 cups of cooked, shredded chicken
   • 3 cups of cooked rice
   • The cooked broccoli
2. Cooked, diced chicken (about 3 to 3 ½ cups).
3. Blanched broccoli florets.
4. Coat with Sauce – Pour the warm, creamy cheese sauce over the chicken and broccoli mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
5. Transfer to the Baking Dish – Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared 3-quart casserole dish.

Step 6: Top and Bake

A crispy, cheesy topping adds the perfect finishing touch to the casserole.

1. Top the Casserole – Evenly sprinkle over the top:
   • ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese
   • ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
   • ¼ cup of breadcrumbs (for a golden, crispy crust)
2. ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds extra cheesiness and a salty bite).
3. ½ cup toasted sliced almonds (provides a crunchy contrast).
4. ¼ cup breadcrumbs (helps create a golden, crispy topping).
5. Bake – Place the dish in the preheated 400°F (200°C) oven. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

1. Let it Rest – Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken slightly, making it easier to serve.
2. Serve Warm – Enjoy your rich and creamy Chicken Divan as a main dish, optionally pairing it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or a side of rice.

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.

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