Chicken Divan: Sherry Parmesan-Infused Recipe

Every family has a special recipe that makes a meal unforgettable. For me, the chicken divan recipe sherry parmesan recipe is that treasure. It connects us across generations. This homemade chicken divan recipe is more than just food—it’s a journey of comfort and tradition.

Picture a casserole with tender chicken, bright broccoli, and a rich sherry parmesan sauce. It’s like a trip back to mid-century American kitchens. The classic chicken divan turns simple ingredients into a gourmet delight.

Our sherry parmesan recipe will make your dinner table shine. It combines deep flavors with a touch of nostalgia in every bite. Whether it’s for family or friends, this dish will quickly become your favorite.

The Rich History of Chicken Divan

Explore the amazing story of the original chicken divan recipe. It has been a favorite among home cooks for many years. This dish started in the fancy dining scene of early 20th-century New York City. It won over food lovers with its easy yet classy way of making.

Origins at the Divan Parisien Restaurant

The classic chicken divan recipe comes from the famous Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York City. Chefs made this dish for fancy dinners. The name “Divan” shows the dish’s fancy origins.

  • Created in the early 1900s
  • Originated in a high-end New York restaurant
  • Quickly became a culinary sensation

Evolution of the Classic Recipe

Over time, chicken divan with curry went from a fancy restaurant dish to a favorite home meal. Home cooks made it their own, changing it to fit their tastes and what they had. The original had:

  1. Tender chicken breasts
  2. Fresh broccoli
  3. Creamy sauce with mayonnaise
  4. Cheese topping

Modern Interpretations

Today, chefs are making new versions of this classic dish. They try out different flavors and ingredients. The sherry parmesan version is a fancy twist, adding more taste to this comfort food.

Chicken Divan Historical Recipe

*”A culinary classic that has stood the test of time, transforming from an upscale restaurant dish to a cherished family favorite.”*

Essential Ingredients for Your Chicken Divan Recipe Sherry Parmesan Recipe

Chicken Divan Casserole Ingredients

Making the best chicken divan recipe means picking top-notch ingredients. These ingredients turn a simple dish into a true masterpiece. Your chicken divan casserole with broccoli needs the right parts to mix well and taste amazing.

Key Protein and Vegetable Base – chicken divan recipe sherry parmesan recipe

  • 2-3 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 1/2 pounds of fresh broccoli florets
  • High-quality, tender chicken meat

Your creamy chicken divan casserole starts with tender chicken and crunchy broccoli. Pick fresh, bright broccoli for nutrition and a great texture.

Signature Sauce Ingredients – chicken divan recipe sherry parmesan recipe

  • 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
  • 1/4 cup dry sherry
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup heavy cream

The sauce in your chicken divan casserole is its magic. Dry sherry adds complexity, and Parmesan cheese brings a sharp, nutty flavor. This makes the whole dish better.

“A great Chicken Divan is all about balance – each ingredient should sing in harmony.” – Culinary Experts

Your aim is to make a creamy chicken divan casserole that’s both cozy and fancy. By choosing the best ingredients and knowing how they work together, you’ll make a meal that everyone will love.

Kitchen Equipment and Preparation Tips

Preparing a simple chicken divan recipe needs careful planning and the right tools. Being organized before cooking can make your experience better. It helps you make a tasty sherry parmesan recipe easily.

Your cooking journey starts with choosing the right cookware and learning key techniques. The right tools can greatly improve your meal at home.

Essential Cookware for Chicken Divan

  • 9×13-inch baking dish (ceramic or glass recommended)
  • Large mixing bowl for combining ingredients
  • Saucepan for preparing sauce
  • Sharp chef’s knife for chopping
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredient Preparation Techniques

Learning how to prepare ingredients can make cooking easier. For an easy chicken divan recipe, follow these tips:

  1. Pre-cook chicken breasts and shred them in advance
  2. Blanch fresh broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes
  3. Grate parmesan cheese just before using

Time-Saving Tips

Make your simple chicken divan recipe quicker with these tips:

  • Use rotisserie chicken for instant protein
  • Opt for frozen broccoli florets
  • Prepare sauce components ahead of time
IngredientQuantityPreparation Tip
Chicken6 cupsPre-cook and shred
Broccoli8 cupsBlanch or use frozen
Parmesan1/2 cupFreshly grate

Pro tip: Freshly grated parmesan cheese melts more smoothly and provides a richer flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making a tasty chicken divan recipe with mayo is simple. It’s a classic dish with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a creamy sauce. It will make your taste buds happy.

Chicken Divan Cooking Process

First, get all your ingredients ready for this Campbell’s chicken divan recipe. Preparing well is important for a great meal.

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)
  2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish
  3. Layer ingredients strategically for maximum flavor

How you prepare the chicken is important. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy serving. If using fresh broccoli, blanch it briefly. This keeps it green and crisp.

“The secret to a perfect Chicken Divan is in the layering and sauce,” says professional chef Maria Rodriguez.

  • Shred or dice chicken uniformly
  • Blanch broccoli for 2-3 minutes
  • Pat ingredients dry to prevent excess moisture

When making your creamy sauce, whisk well for a smooth mix. Mayonnaise, sour cream, and parmesan cheese make it rich and luxurious. This sauce makes the dish special.

Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This lets the sauce set and flavors blend perfectly.

Creating the Perfect Sherry Parmesan Sauce

Making a great chicken divan with sherry sauce needs care and love. The key to a tasty dish is balancing flavors and getting the sauce just right.

Sherry Parmesan Sauce Preparation

The best sauce starts with picking the right ingredients. Knowing how they work together is key. Your dish will shine with the right mix.

Proper Sherry Selection – chicken divan recipe sherry parmesan recipe

For your chicken divan with sherry sauce, pick a dry sherry. It should add depth without being too sweet. A good dry sherry brings a nutty flavor that pairs well with the creamy sauce.

  • Select a dry fino or amontillado sherry
  • Avoid overly sweet cream sherries
  • Look for cooking-grade sherries from reputable brands

Parmesan Incorporation Methods – chicken divan recipe sherry parmesan recipe

Adding Parmesan needs a gentle hand. Grate the cheese fresh for the best results. It melts smoothly and spreads flavor evenly.

Cheese TypeMelting QualityFlavor Intensity
Pre-grated ParmesanModerateMild
Freshly Grated ParmesanExcellentRich

Achieving the Ideal Consistency – chicken divan recipe sherry parmesan recipe

Making a smooth sauce takes skill. Start with a roux of butter and flour. Then, add your ingredients slowly. Simmer it gently to blend flavors and thicken the sauce.

“Patience transforms a good sauce into an extraordinary one.” – Culinary Wisdom

Your sauce should glide off a spoon smoothly. This silky texture promises a rich dining experience.

Broccoli Preparation and Integration

Getting your broccoli ready is key to a great chicken divan recipe. The type of broccoli you pick can change the taste and health benefits of this dish.

Broccoli Preparation for Chicken Divan

  • Choose bright green, firm broccoli florets
  • Wash thoroughly under cold running water
  • Cut into uniform bite-sized pieces
  • Select tender, crisp florets without yellowing edges

To get the right texture in your chicken divan, try these cooking methods:

  1. Blanching: Boil water, cook florets for 3-4 minutes
  2. Immediately transfer to ice bath to preserve color
  3. Drain completely before adding to casserole

“Fresh broccoli transforms a simple casserole into a nutritional powerhouse” – Culinary Experts

Broccoli is not just tasty; it’s also good for you. Here are some health benefits:

NutrientAmount per CupHealth Benefit
Vitamin C135% Daily ValueImmune Support
Vitamin K116% Daily ValueBone Health
Fiber5 gramsDigestive Wellness

Pro tip: If you’re short on time, frozen broccoli is a good choice. Just thaw it and drain off any extra water to keep your casserole perfect.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Tips

Presenting your barefoot contessa chicken divan recipe right can make a big difference. The right look can turn a simple dish into a showstopper. It becomes the highlight of any dinner.

For the best chicken divan recipe sherry parmesan recipe, try these presentation tips:

Elegant Plating Techniques – chicken divan recipe sherry parmesan recipe

  • Use a large, shallow white ceramic dish to showcase the casserole’s layers
  • Serve individual portions in small gratin dishes for an upscale presentation
  • Create height and visual interest by using a raised serving platter

Garnishing Options – chicken divan recipe sherry parmesan recipe

  • Sprinkle fresh finely chopped parsley for a vibrant green accent
  • Dust with additional grated Parmesan cheese
  • Add a light drizzle of extra sherry sauce around the edges

Perfect Side Dish Pairings

Side Dish CategoryRecommended Options
Light SaladsMixed green salad with vinaigrette
Roasted VegetablesAsparagus, Brussels sprouts
GrainsFluffy white rice, quinoa

Pair your Chicken Divan with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. It complements the dish’s rich, creamy flavors. Your dish deserves a presentation that’s just as thoughtful!

Storage and Reheating Guidelines – chicken divan recipe sherry parmesan recipe

Keeping your homemade chicken divan recipe fresh is easy. After you’ve enjoyed your meal, it’s important to store leftovers right. This helps keep the flavor and texture amazing.

Here’s how to store your easy chicken divan casserole in the fridge:

  • Let the casserole cool down completely before storing
  • Use airtight containers or tight plastic wrap
  • Put it in the fridge within two hours of cooking
  • It stays good for 3-4 days in the fridge

Freezing tip: You can also freeze your chicken divan recipe. Wrap it tightly in freezer-safe wrap or containers. It stays fresh for up to 3 months.

To reheat, thaw frozen chicken divan in the fridge overnight. For the best taste, reheat it in the oven:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F
  2. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil
  3. Heat for 20-25 minutes
  4. Add chicken broth if it’s too dry

“The secret to great leftovers is proper storage and gentle reheating” – Home Cooking Experts

Remember, always check the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This ensures your easy chicken divan casserole is safe to eat when reheated.

Conclusion: chicken divan recipe sherry parmesan recipe

Making the best chicken divan recipe is all about passion, skill, and detail. Your dish with sherry parmesan sauce is more than food—it’s a journey. It blends old cooking ways with new kitchen ideas. Every time you make it, you find new ways to make it your own.

Getting better at making it means knowing how to mix flavors and textures right. The sherry parmesan recipe needs top-notch ingredients and careful steps. Try different cheeses, tweak the seasonings, and make it your own.

Practice makes a good cook great. By making this recipe over and over, you learn how ingredients work together. Your confidence will grow, making this dish a special part of your cooking style.

The best part of cooking is sharing meals with loved ones. Mastering the chicken divan recipe with sherry parmesan will make meals memorable. It brings people together, celebrating both tradition and new ideas in cooking.

FAQ

What is the origin of Chicken Divan?

Chicken Divan started at the Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York City in the early 1900s. It quickly became a favorite in American cooking. It moved from a fancy restaurant dish to a comfort food loved at home.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli is a good choice for saving time. Just thaw and drain it well to avoid too much moisture. But, fresh broccoli gives the best taste and texture.

How long can I store Chicken Divan?

Chicken Divan can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, cover it with foil and add a bit of milk or chicken broth to keep it creamy.

What type of sherry should I use in the recipe?

Choose a dry sherry for a rich, nutty flavor without too much sweetness. It adds depth to the sauce, balancing the other flavors.

Can I make Chicken Divan ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the casserole ahead and refrigerate it before baking. It’s perfect for busy nights or when you’re hosting guests. Just bake it a bit longer if it’s straight from the fridge.

What are some recommended side dishes to serve with Chicken Divan?

Good sides include a simple green salad with light vinaigrette, roasted veggies like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, or fluffy rice. For wine, try a crisp Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or light Pinot Grigio.

How can I make the recipe healthier?

For a healthier version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, low-fat mayonnaise, and reduced-sodium cream of chicken soup. Steam the broccoli and use grilled or baked chicken breast for leaner protein.

Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

Yes! You can add veggies like cauliflower, carrots, or asparagus to Chicken Divan. Just make sure they’re cut the same size and pre-cooked right.