Chicken Divan is a beloved classic, a creamy and comforting dish that's surprisingly easy to make. This recipe elevates the classic by adding a touch of sophistication with a sherry parmesan sauce, creating a dish that's both familiar and exciting. Let's dive into creating this culinary masterpiece!
What is Chicken Divan?
Chicken Divan is a baked dish featuring cooked chicken, typically shredded, combined with a creamy sauce, usually based on cream of mushroom soup, and topped with a layer of broccoli and bread crumbs. This recipe puts a gourmet spin on that classic comfort dish.
Ingredients for Gourmet Chicken Divan with Sherry Parmesan Sauce
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded (roasting, grilling, or boiling all work well)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sherry Parmesan Sauce:
- 1/2 cup dry sherry (choose a good quality sherry for best flavor)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Chicken: If you haven't already cooked your chicken, do so now. Once cooked, let it cool slightly before shredding it.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Create the Sherry Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, whisk in the flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form. Stir in the dry sherry, Parmesan cheese, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly. Reduce heat to low and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Steam or Blanch Broccoli: While the sauce simmers, steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Drain well.
5. Assemble the Divan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large oven-safe casserole dish, combine the shredded chicken and the sherry parmesan sauce. Gently fold to ensure the chicken is well coated. Arrange the steamed broccoli evenly over the chicken mixture.
6. Top and Bake: Sprinkle the bread crumbs evenly over the broccoli. Drizzle with the melted butter. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Let the Chicken Divan rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the dish to cool slightly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use different types of cheese in the sauce?
Absolutely! While Parmesan is traditional and adds a lovely sharpness, you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even a blend of cheeses.
What kind of sherry should I use?
A dry sherry like fino or manzanilla works best in this recipe. Avoid sweet sherries, as they can overpower the other flavors.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the dish just before baking. However, it's best to bake it fresh for optimal texture and flavor.
What are some variations of this recipe?
You can add other vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or spinach. You could also experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile. Adding a sprinkle of nutmeg or a dash of Worcestershire sauce can add depth.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
While not ideal, you can freeze leftover Chicken Divan. Allow it to cool completely before freezing in an airtight container. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, but note that the texture might not be as good as when freshly made.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don't overcook the broccoli; it should be tender-crisp.
- If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a splash more sherry or cream.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for an elegant touch.
This refined Chicken Divan recipe with its delicious sherry parmesan sauce offers a delightful twist on a classic comfort dish. Enjoy!
