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Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan

Barefoot Contessa's Chicken Divan is a popular comfort food known for its creamy texture and delicious taste. It usually includes cooked chicken, broccoli, and a creamy sauce, all baked together until it's bubbly and golden brown. Sometimes, it's topped with cheese and breadcrumbs for extra flavor and crunch.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • 3 - quart casserole dish
  • Baking sheet
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

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
  • 1 bunch of scallions chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded Gruyere cheese about 6 ounces
  • 3 to 3 ½ cups cooked diced chicken
  • ½ cup sliced or slivered almonds toasted
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs

Instructions
 

Preheat and Prepare:

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Grease a 3-quart casserole dish with butter and set aside.

Cook the Broccoli:

  • Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil.
  • Add fresh broccoli florets and cook for 2–3 minutes until crisp-tender.
  • Drain and set aside. (If using frozen broccoli, ensure it is thawed before adding to the casserole).

Prepare the Sauce:

  • In a medium saucepan, melt 5 tbsp butter over medium heat.
  • Add 1 tbsp chopped fresh sage and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Whisk in 5 tbsp all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.

Add Liquids and Cheese:

  • Slowly pour in 1 cup milk, 1 cup heavy cream, and 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
  • Add 3 tbsp dry sherry (or chicken broth), 1 pinch of nutmeg, 1 tsp salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  • Stir in 1 ½ cups shredded Gruyere cheese, mixing until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Assemble the Casserole:

  • In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken and cooked broccoli.
  • Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the mixture and stir until well combined.
  • Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.

Top and Bake:

  • Sprinkle the top with ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, ½ cup toasted sliced almonds, and ¼ cup breadcrumbs.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

Serve:

  • Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  • Enjoy your homemade Chicken Divan, inspired by Barefoot Contessa!