Chicken Divan is a timeless American dish that has delighted taste buds for generations. Originating in the early 1900s, this rich and creamy casserole combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a luxurious sauce that makes it a perfect comfort food. The Barefoot Contessa’s version of Chicken Divan stays true to the dish’s classic roots while adding her signature touch of elegance and simplicity. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the history, ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for making this iconic dish. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this guide will help you create a perfect Chicken Divan, Barefoot Contessa chicken divan recipe.
What is Chicken Divan?
Chicken Divan is a casserole dish that traditionally includes chicken breasts, broccoli, and a creamy sauce made with cheese, butter, flour, and milk or cream. The dish is baked until bubbly and golden, often topped with breadcrumbs or cheese for added texture. The name “Divan” comes from the restaurant where it was first created—Divan Parisien at the Chatham Hotel in New York City. The dish quickly became a favorite in the 1950s, known for its luxurious taste and ability to feed a large crowd.
Why Is It Called Chicken Divan?
Chicken Divan was invented by a chef named Lagasi at the Divan Parisien restaurant. The dish was named after the restaurant and became its signature menu item. While the original recipe remains a mystery, many chefs have since created their own versions of the dish. The classic Chicken Divan typically features chicken served over broccoli and topped with a creamy cheese sauce, often flavored with Parmesan cheese. Over time, the recipe has evolved, but the name “Chicken Divan” remains a tribute to its origins at the Divan Parisien restaurant.
Is Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan Healthy?
The Barefoot Contessa’s Chicken Divan recipe is a comforting dish that provides a good balance of protein, vitamins, and minerals from the chicken and broccoli. However, like many comfort foods, it also contains ingredients that are high in calories, fat, and sodium, such as butter, cream, and cheese. While this dish can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, there are several ways to make it healthier without sacrificing flavor:
- Use Half-and-Half Instead of Heavy Cream: This reduces the amount of saturated fat in the dish.
- Substitute Olive Oil for Butter: This lowers the overall fat content.
- Opt for Low-Fat Cheese: Choose a reduced-fat version of Gruyere or cheddar to decrease the calorie count.
By making these small adjustments, you can enjoy Chicken Divan as a more health-conscious meal.
Ingredients for Barefoot Contessa chicken divan recipe
Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need to make Barefoot Contessa’s Chicken Divan:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
| Unsalted butter | 5 tablespoons | Plus more for greasing the dish |
| Kosher salt | To taste | |
| Broccoli florets | 5 cups | Fresh or frozen, cut into 1- to 2-inch florets |
| Fresh sage | 1 tablespoon | Chopped |
| All-purpose flour | 5 tablespoons | Used as a thickening agent |
| Dry sherry or chicken broth | 3 tablespoons | Adds depth to the sauce |
| Low-sodium chicken broth | 1 cup | |
| Milk | 1 cup | |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | Can be substituted with half-and-half |
| Nutmeg | 1 pinch | Freshly grated |
| Black pepper | To taste | Freshly ground |
| Cooked chicken | 6 cups | Diced into bite-sized pieces |
| Gruyere cheese | 1 1/2 cups | Shredded |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup | Grated |
| Breadcrumbs | 1/4 cup | Adds a crispy topping |
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
- Cook the Chicken: Start by cooking your chicken breasts. You can bake, poach, or grill them until fully cooked. Once cooled, dice them into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, cut it into florets. If using frozen, simply thaw them out. Both fresh and frozen broccoli work well in this recipe.
2. Cook the Broccoli
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add a pinch of salt.
- Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they are crisp-tender.
- Drain the broccoli and set it aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a medium-sized saucepan, melt 5 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped fresh sage and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture turns golden brown. This step helps to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
- Add the dry sherry (or chicken broth) to the sauce along with the nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until everything is well combined.
- Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded Gruyere cheese until fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
4. Combine Chicken and Broccoli
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken and broccoli.
- Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the chicken and broccoli, stirring gently to coat everything evenly.
5. Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grease a 3-quart casserole dish with butter.
- Pour the chicken, broccoli, and sauce mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the top with 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs for a crunchy, golden topping.
6. Bake
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dish is bubbling around the edges.
7. Serve
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Serve hot, either on its own or with a side of rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes.
What to Serve with Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan
Chicken Divan is a hearty dish, but it pairs well with a variety of sides to round out the meal:
- Rice: A simple side of white or brown rice helps soak up the creamy sauce.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the richness of the casserole.
- Noodles: Egg noodles or pasta can be served on the side or underneath the Chicken Divan.
- Cornbread: Adds a sweet and savory contrast to the dish.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lighten up the meal with steamed green beans, carrots, or asparagus.
- Salads: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the rich casserole.
Comparison Table: Classic vs. Healthier Chicken Divan
| Component | Classic Chicken Divan | Healthier Chicken Divan |
| Cream Base | Heavy cream | Half-and-half or reduced-fat milk |
| Butter | Unsalted butter | Olive oil |
| Cheese | Gruyere and Parmesan | Reduced-fat Gruyere or cheddar |
| Calories per Serving | Higher | Lower |
| Fat Content | High | Moderate |
| Flavor Profile | Rich, creamy, indulgent | Slightly lighter, but still flavorful |
FAQs About Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan
Can I Make Chicken Divan Ahead of Time?
Yes, Chicken Divan can be made ahead of time. Assemble the casserole as directed, but instead of baking it, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and bake at 400°F for 35-40 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Can I Freeze Chicken Divan?
Yes, Chicken Divan freezes well. After assembling the casserole, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What Can I Use Instead of Gruyere Cheese?
If Gruyere is not available, you can substitute it with Swiss cheese or a mild cheddar. Both options will melt well and provide a similar creamy texture to the dish.
Is There a Vegetarian Version of Chicken Divan?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with tofu, chickpeas, or a plant-based chicken substitute. The rest of the recipe can remain the same, though you may want to adjust the seasonings to suit the alternative protein.
How Can I Make Chicken Divan Gluten-Free?
To make Chicken Divan gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour to thicken the sauce and gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping. Ensure all other ingredients, such as the chicken broth and cheese, are certified
Conclusion
Barefoot Contessa’s Chicken Divan is a comforting, classic dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or opt for a lighter version, this casserole is sure to please. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you need a delicious meal that can be made ahead. With a few simple steps, you can create a dish that’s not only satisfying but also flexible enough to adapt to your dietary needs. Give this Chicken Divan recipe a try, and enjoy a taste of culinary history with a modern twist, Barefoot Contessa chicken divan recipe.
