“`html

If you are on the hunt for a comforting yet elegant dish that feels like a warm embrace, the Chicken Divine Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. This casserole perfectly balances tender rotisserie chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fluffy jasmine rice, all wrapped in a luscious, creamy sauce and topped with a golden, crispy crust. It’s a timeless crowd-pleaser that brings both rich flavors and a cozy satisfaction to the table, making it ideal for family dinners or for impressing guests with minimal effort.

Chicken Divine Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with the Chicken Divine Casserole Recipe is straightforward because each ingredient plays a key role in crafting its amazing taste, texture, and color. From the creamy cheese to the crunchy panko, everything comes together effortlessly to form a truly delightful dish.

Rotisserie chicken (600 grams): Using pre-cooked chicken saves time while adding juicy, savory meat with a depth of flavor.
Frozen broccoli florets (680 grams): These add a bright green freshness that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce and adds a nutritious element.
Ben’s Original Ready Rice Jasmine (490 grams): The fragrant jasmine rice brings a soft, fluffy texture that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
Sharp cheddar cheese (115 grams): Sharp cheddar provides a punch of tangy richness and melts beautifully for gooey goodness.
Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup (10.5 oz): Acts as the base for the creamy sauce, lending an earthy, comforting flavor.
Plain non-fat Greek yogurt (8 fl oz): Adds creaminess with a subtle tang while keeping the dish lighter and silky in texture.
Swanson Chicken Cooking Stock, Unsalted (8 fl oz): Boosts the chicken flavor and keeps the sauce moist and flavorful.
4C Panko Seasoned Bread Crumbs (21 grams): Creates that irresistible crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
Dijon mustard (1/2 tbsp): Provides a subtle bite that elevates the sauce complexity.
Smoked paprika (1/2 tsp): Infuses a delicate smoky aroma that deepens the flavor layers.
Ground mustard (1/2 tsp): Adds warmth and a slight sharpness that complements the cheddar cheese.
Salt and pepper (1/2 tsp each): Essential seasonings that balance and enhance every ingredient.
Oh My Spice! Lemon Pepper Seasoning (1/2 tsp): Brings a zesty brightness and fresh peppery kick to brighten the dish.

How to Make Chicken Divine Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish

Begin by pre-heating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving later. Setting the right oven temperature is crucial, as it allows the casserole to cook evenly, providing a perfectly baked dish with layers that meld deliciously together.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, Greek yogurt, chicken stock, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, ground mustard, salt, pepper, and lemon pepper seasoning until smooth. This sauce is the heart of the Chicken Divine Casserole Recipe, binding all the ingredients while adding richness and that wonderful tanginess from the yogurt that keeps it from feeling too heavy.

Step 3: Start the Layers

Spread the frozen broccoli evenly across the bottom of the casserole dish. Then sprinkle half of the jasmine rice over the broccoli, followed by half of the creamy sauce mixture. Finally, scatter about one-third of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese atop this layer. Layering in this way ensures every forkful includes the vibrant contrast of crisp broccoli, fluffy rice, and creamy sauce intertwined perfectly.

Step 4: Complete the Assembly

Add the chopped rotisserie chicken over the first layers, then spread the remaining rice on top. Pour the rest of the creamy sauce evenly over the entire dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and top generously with the seasoned panko bread crumbs. This final assembly creates a lovely balance of creamy filling with a crisp, golden crust forming on top as it bakes.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. To give it that show-stopping finish, switch the oven to broil for the last 2 to 3 minutes to brown the top until it’s beautifully golden and crispy. Keep a close eye during broiling so the crunchy topping doesn’t burn. The result is an enticingly warm, cheesy casserole that’s bursting with flavor and texture.

How to Serve Chicken Divine Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Add a fresh pop of color and flavor by garnishing your casserole with freshly chopped parsley or chives. Not only do these herbs bring a lovely green brightness, but their mild sharpness complements the creamy layers and crispy crust, enhancing each portion you serve.

Side Dishes

While the Chicken Divine Casserole Recipe is pretty much a meal on its own, pairing it with a crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette or some roasted root vegetables works beautifully. The salad offers a refreshing crunch to balance the warm, creamy casserole, while hearty roasted veggies add another layer of comfort and flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve the casserole directly from a beautiful baking dish placed at the center of the table. For a more casual family dinner, portion it into individual ramekins and top each with a little extra shredded cheese and fresh herbs. Either way, the bubbly cheese and golden crust make every serving look inviting and delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it stays fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or reheated dinners during the busy week.

Freezing

This casserole freezes wonderfully. To freeze, assemble the dish but do not bake it. Wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed, adding a little extra baking time if needed.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a couple of minutes, or warm the entire casserole in a 350 degrees Fahrenheit oven for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent the topping from drying out. Remove the foil during the last few minutes to crisp the crust back up beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh broccoli will work just as well. Just be sure to cut it into bite-sized florets and blanch it briefly in boiling water to soften slightly before layering it into the casserole.

Is there a substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?

If you prefer, you can make a homemade white sauce with butter, flour, and milk or use a cream of chicken soup instead. Each substitute will slightly change the flavor, but the casserole will still be delicious.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap the cheddar for a dairy-free cheese alternative and use coconut or almond yogurt instead of Greek yogurt. Be sure to check that your soup and breadcrumbs are also dairy-free.

How spicy is the Chicken Divine Casserole Recipe?

This casserole is not spicy; the smoked paprika and lemon pepper seasoning add warmth and zest without heat, making it approachable for all ages and palates.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time fully assembled?

Definitely! You can assemble the casserole the day before baking. Just cover and store it in the refrigerator. When ready, bake as usual, adding a little extra time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

Final Thoughts

The Chicken Divine Casserole Recipe is truly a gem in the world of comfort food. Its combination of flavors, textures, and ease of preparation make it a dish you’ll want to keep in your recipe rotation. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or an impromptu gathering, this casserole promises a satisfying meal that feels both special and heartwarming. Give it a try and watch it become your new favorite go-to dinner!

“`

Chicken Divine Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 32 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

This Chicken Divine Casserole is a creamy, comforting baked dish featuring tender rotisserie chicken, nutritious broccoli, and flavorful layers of jasmine rice, sharp cheddar, and a rich mushroom cream sauce. Topped with toasted panko breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch, this casserole is perfect for a satisfying family meal served warm.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the oven and dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving once baked. The right temperature will help cook the casserole evenly throughout.
Make the creamy sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, plain non-fat Greek yogurt, unsalted chicken stock, dijon mustard, smoked paprika, ground mustard, salt, pepper, and lemon pepper seasoning until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creamy sauce binds the casserole ingredients and adds depth of flavor with a tangy touch from the yogurt.
Start the layers: Spread the frozen broccoli florets evenly across the bottom of the greased casserole dish. Next, layer half of the ready jasmine rice on top of the broccoli. Pour half of the creamy sauce mixture evenly over this layer, then sprinkle approximately one-third of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over everything. This layering helps distribute flavors and ensures the broccoli cooks properly.
Complete the assembly: Add the chopped rotisserie chicken as the next layer, followed by the remaining rice. Pour the rest of the creamy sauce evenly on top. Finally, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and the seasoned panko breadcrumbs evenly over the casserole to create a flavorful, golden crust when baked.
Bake to perfection: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. In the last 2 to 3 minutes of baking, switch the oven to broil to toast the breadcrumbs and cheese to a golden brown. Keep a close eye during broiling to prevent burning. Once done, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving warm.

Notes

You can substitute fresh broccoli if preferred; just blanch it briefly before layering to ensure even cooking.
Using rotisserie chicken speeds up preparation, but leftover cooked chicken or turkey can also be used.
Adjust seasoning to taste, especially if your chicken stock or soup contains salt.
For a crispier topping, you may add a little melted butter to the breadcrumbs before sprinkling.
This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American