Classic Chicken Divan Casserole (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Protein & Vegetables

01 - 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
02 - 3 cups fresh broccoli florets

→ Seasonings

03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
05 - 1 teaspoon curry powder
06 - ½ teaspoon salt
07 - ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Creamy Sauce Base

08 - 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of broccoli cheese soup
09 - 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
10 - ½ cup sour cream
11 - ¼ cup whole milk
12 - 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

→ Toppings

13 - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
14 - 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
15 - 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 350°F and spray an 8x8-inch baking dish with cooking spray or brush lightly with olive oil.
02 - Cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes and toss them with garlic powder, onion powder, curry powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
03 - Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the seasoned chicken cubes for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Set aside on a plate.
04 - Bring a pot of water to boil, add the broccoli florets, and cook for about 5 minutes until they're tender but still have a bit of bite. Drain well.
05 - In a large mixing bowl, combine both canned soups, sour cream, milk, and lemon juice, stirring until smooth and well blended.
06 - Add the cooked chicken, blanched broccoli, and 1½ cups of the cheddar cheese to the cream sauce mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
07 - Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Top with crushed Ritz crackers, then sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese over everything.
08 - Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until the crackers are golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly around the edges.
09 - Let the casserole rest for 8-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set up. Serve as is or over rice with a side salad.

# Notes:

01 - Don't overcook the broccoli - it will continue cooking in the oven
02 - This casserole can be assembled ahead and refrigerated until ready to bake
03 - Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days
04 - Can be served over rice, with dinner rolls, or as a complete meal on its own