If you’re looking for a dish that brings comfort and a burst of flavor with every spoonful, then this Chicken Divinity Casserole Recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite. Packed with tender rotisserie chicken, vibrant broccoli, creamy mushroom sauce, and layers of cheesy goodness, this casserole is a celebration of textures and tastes that feels both indulgent and wholesome. It’s the perfect way to turn simple ingredients into a show-stopping meal that your whole family will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Chicken Divinity Casserole Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each element contributes something special: the juicy chicken adds protein and richness, broccoli gives freshness and color, while the creamy sauce and sharp cheddar ensure every bite is luscious and satisfying.
- Rotisserie chicken (600 grams): Using pre-cooked chicken saves time and adds great flavor without any fuss.
- Frozen broccoli florets (680 grams): Convenient and nutritious, they bring a vibrant green pop and subtle crunch.
- Ben’s Original Ready Rice Jasmine (490 grams): Quick-cooking rice that adds fluffy texture and absorbs the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (115 grams): Adds a tangy, melty richness that binds the casserole beautifully.
- Condensed cream of mushroom soup (298 grams): The base for the creamy sauce, offering depth and savory umami flavor.
- Plain non-fat Greek yogurt (8 fl oz): Brings tang and creaminess while keeping the dish lighter than using sour cream or heavy cream.
- Swanson Chicken Cooking Stock, Unsalted (8 fl oz): Enhances the sauce’s savoriness without overpowering.
- 4C Panko Seasoned Bread Crumbs (21 grams): Sprinkle on top to create that irresistible golden crunch.
- Dijon mustard (½ tbsp): Adds a gentle kick and depth to the creamy sauce.
- Smoked paprika (½ tsp): Introduces subtle warmth and smoky undertones.
- Ground mustard (½ tsp): Enhances the overall complexity of flavor.
- Salt (½ tsp): Essential to balance and enhance all ingredients.
- Pepper (½ tsp): For a touch of heat and freshness.
- Oh My Spice! Lemon Pepper Seasoning (½ tsp): Provides a bright citrus note that lifts the dish.
How to Make Chicken Divinity Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the oven and dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F to ensure even cooking throughout. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish generously with butter or a non-stick spray. This simple step guarantees your casserole won’t stick, making serving a breeze and cleanup easier afterward.
Step 2: Make the creamy sauce
Whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, plain Greek yogurt, chicken stock, Dijon mustard, and all the spices until smooth and well blended. This sauce will marry all the ingredients together with its creamy texture and layers of flavor, while the Greek yogurt adds a lovely tang without extra fat.
Step 3: Start the layers
Spread the frozen broccoli florets evenly at the bottom of your casserole dish. Layer half of the jasmine rice on top of the broccoli, then pour half of the creamy sauce mixture over the rice. Sprinkle about one-third of the shredded cheddar cheese to lock in that cheesy, gooey goodness. Layering in this order helps the broccoli cook properly and ensures every forkful has balanced flavor.
Step 4: Complete the assembly
Next, add the chopped rotisserie chicken over the first layers, followed by the remaining rice. Pour the rest of the cream sauce evenly over the top, then finish with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and a generous sprinkle of the panko breadcrumbs. This final step sets the stage for a crispy, golden crust that perfectly contrasts the creamy interior.
Step 5: Bake to perfection
Place your assembled casserole in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes at 375°F. For the last 2 to 3 minutes, switch your oven to broil to achieve a beautifully golden, bubbling topping. Keep a close eye during broiling so the breadcrumbs don’t burn, as that final crisp is what sets this Chicken Divinity Casserole Recipe apart.
How to Serve Chicken Divinity Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a splash of vibrant green and a hint of freshness that cuts through the richness beautifully. For a little extra zing, a light drizzle of hot sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up each bite.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands proudly on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple side salads like a crisp mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette. Roasted root vegetables or a crisp cucumber salad also bring a delightful contrast in texture and flavor to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mini ramekins for a charming dinner party presentation, or scoop into large bowls and top with crunchy fried onions for added texture. You can also layer it in a clear glass dish to show off those beautiful, colorful layers of broccoli, chicken, and cheese.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The casserole reheats wonderfully and the flavors even deepen after a day, making it perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze the Chicken Divinity Casserole Recipe either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. If freezing after baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap well and freeze. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat individual portions in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, usually about 20 minutes. If short on time, the microwave works fine, but the crust will lose its crispness. Consider adding a quick broil at the end to refresh the topping.
FAQs
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli florets can be used, but you may want to steam them lightly first to ensure they cook fully and become tender within the casserole.
Is it necessary to use Greek yogurt in the sauce?
Greek yogurt is a fantastic choice for creaminess with fewer calories, but you can substitute sour cream or even cream cheese if desired, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the panko bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep that delicious topping without gluten.
How spicy is this casserole?
This Chicken Divinity Casserole Recipe has subtle warmth from the smoked paprika and seasonings but is generally mild, making it perfect for all palates including kids.
Can I prepare this recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely. It scales up well. Just double the ingredients and use a larger casserole dish or two baking pans to accommodate the extra servings.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Divinity Casserole Recipe truly captures the cozy feeling of a home-cooked meal with an extra special touch. It’s a dish you’ll savor not only for its creamy, cheesy layers but for its ease and versatility. Give it a try soon – it just might become the star of your weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
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Chicken Divinity Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken Divine Casserole is a hearty, creamy baked dish combining tender rotisserie chicken, nutritious broccoli, aromatic jasmine rice, and a luscious mushroom-yogurt sauce. Topped with sharp cheddar and crunchy seasoned panko breadcrumbs, it delivers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures perfect for a comforting family meal in under an hour.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 1 small to medium rotisserie chicken, skin and bones removed, then chopped (600 grams)
- 1 1/2 lbs frozen broccoli florets (680 grams)
Rice
- 1 packet Ben’s Original Ready Rice Jasmine Family Size Rice (17.3 oz / 490 grams)
Cheese and Toppings
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (115 grams)
- 6 tbsp 4C Panko Seasoned Bread Crumbs (21 grams)
Sauce
- 1 10.5 oz can Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup (298 grams)
- 1 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt (8 fl oz)
- 1 cup Swanson Chicken Cooking Stock, Unsalted (8 fl oz)
- 1/2 tbsp dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground mustard
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp Oh My Spice! Lemon Pepper Seasoning
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and dish: Pre-heat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish using butter or a non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and facilitate easy serving.
- Make the creamy sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, plain non-fat Greek yogurt, unsalted chicken cooking stock, dijon mustard, smoked paprika, ground mustard, salt, pepper, and lemon pepper seasoning until smooth and well combined to create a flavorful, creamy sauce.
- Start the layers: Spread the frozen broccoli florets evenly across the bottom of the casserole dish. Add half of the jasmine rice on top, then pour half of the prepared creamy sauce evenly over the rice. Sprinkle about one-third of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over this layer to start building delicious flavor.
- Complete the assembly: Add the chopped rotisserie chicken evenly over the first layers, then scatter the remaining rice on top. Pour the rest of the creamy sauce over everything to moisten the casserole evenly. Finish by sprinkling the remaining cheddar cheese followed by the seasoned panko breadcrumbs on top to create a crunchy, golden crust.
- Bake to perfection: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake at 375°F for approximately 30 minutes, allowing the ingredients to cook through and flavors to meld. For the last 2 to 3 minutes, switch the oven to the broil setting to brown and crisp the breadcrumb topping. Monitor closely to prevent burning. Once done, remove from oven and let sit briefly before serving.
Notes
- Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time and adds rich flavor.
- Frozen broccoli does not need to be thawed before layering.
- The Greek yogurt adds creaminess with fewer calories and fat than sour cream or heavy cream.
- If you prefer, substitute the seasoned panko breadcrumbs with plain and add your preferred herbs or spices.
- Watch carefully during broiling, as toppings can burn quickly.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and baked just before serving.
