Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan Recipe

Sharon Brown

My relationship with the Barefoot Contessa’s chicken divan began during a cozy dinner gathering. It was love at first bite.

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 35

Total Time 1 5

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings

Calories 420 kcal

1 large head of broccoli separated into 1- to 2-inch florets, with tender stems peeled and sliced into ½-inch pieces (about 5 cups)
5 tablespoons of unsalted butter
Kosher salt to taste
1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh sage
5 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
1 cup of low-sodium chicken stock
3 tablespoons of dry sherry or chicken stock
1 cup of whole milk
1 cup of heavy whipping cream
A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
6 cups of cooked diced chicken
2-3 cups of cooked chicken cubed
10- ounce package of frozen broccoli florets or spears
2 cups of cooked rice
½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup of seasoned breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
½ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes
1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese divided

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). A hot oven is crucial for even baking. Trust me; you want to kick off your cooking right!
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the broccoli florets. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender. Drain them and set aside. This step retains the vivid color and crunch!
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute. Then, gradually whisk in the chicken stock, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add sherry, milk, cream, nutmeg, and sage. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens; it’ll take about 5-7 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked chicken, drained broccoli, and sun-dried tomatoes. Pour the creamy sauce over this mixture and stir gently. Mix until everything is evenly coated. This is where the magic truly begins as the flavors meld together!
In a large baking dish, spread the chicken and broccoli mixture evenly. Top it with a blend of Parmesan and cheddar cheese. Then, finish it off with seasoned breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch.
Bake your chicken divan in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. Your kitchen will be filled with an enticing aroma that will make everyone come running!

Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: It should still be slightly crisp so it can hold its shape during baking.
Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re pressed for time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. It’s a fantastic shortcut!
Cheese Variety: Feel free to mix your cheeses. Gruyere or mozzarella can add a unique flavor.
Add Some Spice: If you like a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Garnish Wisely: Fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, can brighten the dish right before serving.

Calories: 420kcal

Keyword barefoot contessa chicken divan recipe

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