Skillet Chicken Divan – Creamy, Cheesy & Easy One-Pan Recipe

Introduction

If you’re searching for an easy, delicious, and comforting one-pan meal, look no further than Skillet Chicken Divan. This classic dish has been a staple in American kitchens for decades, loved for its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and tender chicken and broccoli combination.

Unlike traditional Chicken Divan casserole, which is baked in the oven, this skillet version is made entirely on the stovetop, cutting down on cooking time while keeping all the flavors intact. The dish is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even meal prepping since it reheats beautifully.

Many traditional Chicken Divan recipes rely on canned soups and heavy mayonnaise-based sauces, but this homemade version uses fresh ingredients, ensuring a healthier, more flavorful dish. If you’re curious about the origins of Chicken Divan, you can read more about its history and traditional preparation in this detailed article: The History of Chicken Divan.

Now, let’s dive into how you can make this restaurant-quality dish at home in under 30 minutes!

“A quick and easy Skillet Chicken Divan dinner.”

The History of Chicken Divan

Did you know that Chicken Divan was once considered a luxury dish? This rich and creamy entrée was originally created in the 1950s at the Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York City. It was exclusively served to elite guests, featuring tender chicken, broccoli, and a luscious Mornay sauce (a cheese-infused béchamel sauce).

As the dish gained popularity, home cooks adapted the recipe using canned cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, and cheddar cheese, making it a quick and easy casserole for busy families. Over the years, it became a comfort food staple, especially in Southern and Midwestern homes.

However, the original Chicken Divan was made without canned soups, using a homemade creamy sauce. If you want to master the art of creating a rich and silky sauce from scratch, check out this guide on How to Make a Roux for a Creamy Sauce.

This stovetop version of Skillet Chicken Divan keeps the flavorful tradition alive, while making it quicker, lighter, and fresher than its casserole counterpart.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Fast & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
✔ One-Pan Meal – No need to wash multiple dishes.
✔ No Canned Soup – Uses fresh ingredients for better flavor.
✔ Creamy & Cheesy – The rich sauce and cheddar topping make it irresistible.
✔ Kid-Friendly – Even picky eaters love this dish!
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Reheats well for leftovers.
✔ Customizable – Easily adjust ingredients to fit dietary preferences.

If you’re wondering what to serve with Chicken Divan, check out this list of Best Side Dishes to Serve with Chicken Casseroles.

Ingredients for Skillet Chicken Divan

“Check out this Skillet Chicken Divan casserole recipe.”

Main Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, thawed and drained)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free version)
• 1 ¼ cups whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
• ¾ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 ½ tsp kosher salt

For the Crispy Topping:

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley

Optional Additions:

• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (for extra cheesiness)
• 1 tsp garlic powder (for deeper flavor)
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (adds a subtle tang to the sauce)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

• Melt 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5 minutes, until browned.
• Remove the chicken and set aside.

2. Steam the Broccoli

• In the same skillet, add ¼ cup water and the broccoli florets.
• Cover and let steam for 3 minutes, until bright green and tender-crisp.
• Remove and set aside with the chicken.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

• Melt the remaining 3 tbsp butter in the skillet.
• Stir in flour and whisk continuously for 1 minute to create a smooth roux.
• Gradually pour in milk, whisking until the sauce thickens.

4. Combine & Simmer

• Add the cooked chicken and broccoli back to the skillet.
• Stir in cream cheese, ½ cup cheddar cheese, and remaining seasonings.
• Simmer for 6 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Add Toppings & Broil

• In a small bowl, mix panko, olive oil, parsley, and remaining cheddar.
• Sprinkle evenly over the skillet mixture.
• Place the skillet under the broiler for 2 minutes, until golden and crispy.

Storage & Reheating Tips

✔ Make-Ahead: Assemble everything except the topping, store in the fridge for up to 2 days, and broil before serving.
✔ Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
✔ Freeze: Cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between Skillet Chicken Divan and traditional Chicken Divan?

Traditional Chicken Divan is a baked casserole made with cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, and cheese, while Skillet Chicken Divan is a stovetop version that skips the canned soup, using a homemade creamy sauce instead. This makes it faster, fresher, and lighter than the baked version.

2. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes! If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain it before adding it to the skillet to prevent excess moisture from making the sauce watery. You can also sauté it directly, but steaming for a couple of minutes first will help maintain its texture.

3. What is the best cheese for Chicken Divan?

Sharp cheddar is the most traditional choice, but you can mix in Parmesan, Gruyère, or mozzarella for extra creaminess. If you like a slightly tangy flavor, try adding a little Dijon mustard or Worcestershire sauce.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare Skillet Chicken Divan up to 2 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, and when ready to serve, reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat until warm. If you’ve prepared the topping separately, broil it just before serving for that crispy finish.

5. How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

If your sauce is too thin, try one of the following:

• Simmer it a few extra minutes to let it naturally thicken.
• Whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water).
• Add a bit more cheese to help absorb the excess moisture.

6. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute:

• Turkey – Great for using up leftovers.
• Salmon or shrimp – A seafood twist that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
• Tofu or chickpeas – For a vegetarian-friendly version.

7. What are the best side dishes to serve with Chicken Divan?

This dish is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with:

• Rice, pasta, or egg noodles for a heartier meal.
• Garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• A fresh green salad for a lighter contrast.
• Roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes for extra comfort food vibes.

8. Can I make Skillet Chicken Divan gluten-free?

Yes! Simply:

• Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the sauce.
• Choose gluten-free panko or crushed crackers for the topping.
• Serve over cauliflower rice or gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta or rice.

9. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

✔ Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
✔ Freeze: Cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
✔ Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

10. Can I make a low carb or keto version of this dish?

Yes! To make Skillet Chicken Divan keto-friendly:

• Use heavy cream instead of milk for a richer sauce.
• Swap the panko topping with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
• Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of pasta.

Final Thoughts

Skillet Chicken Divan is the ultimate comfort food creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavorful goodness. With one pan and just 30 minutes, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home without the hassle of baking. The combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich homemade sauce makes this dish a favorite for weeknight dinners and meal prep alike.

If you’re a fan of hearty, homemade dishes, you might also love this Mississippi Pot Roast Cheesesteak, which brings together savory beef, melted cheese, and toasted bread for the ultimate sandwich experience. Looking for a delicious pasta alternative? Try this Homemade Spinach Lasagna, layered with creamy ricotta, rich tomato sauce, and fresh spinach.

And don’t forget dessert! After a satisfying meal, enjoy a slice of Decadent Southern Chocolate Cobbler—a warm, gooey, and irresistible treat that pairs perfectly with vanilla ice cream.

Try this delicious Skillet Chicken Divan recipe tonight, and let me know how it turned out in the comments!