Chicken Divan: A Creamy, Classic Comfort Food with a Sherry Parmesan Twist
Chicken Divan, a classic dish of creamy goodness, is a timeless favorite for its comforting flavors and elegant presentation. This recipe elevates the traditional dish by incorporating a delicate sherry parmesan sauce, adding a sophisticated depth of flavor that will impress even the most discerning palates. We'll explore the original recipe and then delve into how to enhance it with a sherry parmesan twist, answering some common questions along the way.
What is Chicken Divan?
Chicken Divan is typically made with cooked chicken, broccoli florets, and a creamy sauce, often featuring a cheese sauce base, served over a bed of rice or noodles. Its origins are debated, but it's widely considered an American classic, popular for its ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing appeal. The creamy sauce is the star, providing richness and binding the ingredients together beautifully.
What makes this recipe different? A Sherry Parmesan Upgrade!
While the traditional Chicken Divan recipe is delicious, this variation takes it to the next level. We'll be enhancing the creamy sauce with the subtle nutty notes of sherry and the sharp, salty bite of Parmesan cheese. This addition provides a more complex flavor profile, balancing the creaminess with a sophisticated tang.
How do I make a Sherry Parmesan Sauce?
The key to this upgraded Chicken Divan lies in the sherry parmesan sauce. Here’s how to make it:
- Sauté Aromatics: Begin by gently sautéing minced shallots or garlic in butter until softened. This adds a fragrant base to your sauce.
- Deglaze with Sherry: Add a splash of dry sherry (like fino or amontillado) to the pan and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. The sherry will evaporate slightly, leaving behind its delicious essence.
- Create the Sauce: Stir in heavy cream and let it simmer gently until slightly thickened. This creates the creamy foundation of your sauce.
- Add the Cheese: Gradually stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and white pepper.
What kind of chicken is best for Chicken Divan?
While you can use leftover roasted chicken, using cooked chicken breast is ideal. It offers a clean, mild flavor that won't overpower the delicate sherry parmesan sauce. Ensure your chicken is cooked through and cut into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the casserole.
Can I make Chicken Divan ahead of time?
Yes! This recipe is excellent for make-ahead meals. You can prepare the sauce and assemble the casserole a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and bake it when ready to serve. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure the dish is heated through.
What side dishes pair well with Chicken Divan?
Chicken Divan pairs well with various sides, enhancing its overall flavor profile. Some excellent choices include:
- Rice: Plain white rice or wild rice provides a neutral base that complements the creamy sauce.
- Noodles: Fettuccine or other pasta shapes offer a delightful textural contrast.
- Asparagus: Roasted or steamed asparagus adds a fresh, green element to balance the richness of the dish.
Is Chicken Divan healthy?
While Chicken Divan is undeniably delicious, it's important to be mindful of its calorie content. The creamy sauce contributes to its richness. To make it slightly healthier, you could use a reduced-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt in place of some of the heavy cream. Additionally, increasing the amount of broccoli can contribute to the nutritional value of the dish.
This elevated Chicken Divan recipe, incorporating the sherry parmesan sauce, offers a refined and flavorful twist on a classic comfort food. With its ease of preparation and delicious results, it’s sure to become a new family favorite. Remember to adjust seasoning to your liking and experiment with different types of sherry to find your perfect flavor profile. Enjoy!
