If you’re searching for a cozy, irresistible dish that blends comfort with a touch of elegance, look no further than this Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole with Broccoli and Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe. This recipe marries tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious, cheesy sauce, all crowned with a delightful buttery Ritz cracker crust. It’s a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that will have you eager to serve it at your next family dinner or weekend gathering. Trust me, every bite is like a warm hug on a chilly day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view of many small white bowls arranged neatly on a white marbled surface, each filled with different ingredients. There is one large white bowl at the bottom with green broccoli florets. To the right of it is another large white bowl full of shredded cooked chicken, light beige with some texture. Above that bowl is a clear glass measuring cup with white milk. In the center is a medium white bowl filled with shredded yellow cheddar cheese. Surrounding these are smaller white bowls holding diced white onions, a small block of butter, shredded pale cheese, a mix of dried herbs and garlic powder, flour, mustard, and crushed crackers. Near the bottom left is a clear glass with a pale yellow liquid. The image is bright and clean, showing all items clearly laid out. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this casserole lies not only in its rich, creamy sauce but also in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each component plays a special role, from the crisp broccoli adding a fresh pop of green and crunch, to the melted cheeses that bring luscious depth, and of course, the buttery Ritz crackers which create that crave-worthy topping.

Broccoli (6-7 cups): Chopped into bite-sized pieces for perfect texture and color contrast.
Butter (5 tablespoons, divided): Used to sauté, enrich the sauce, and coat the Ritz crackers for that irresistible crunch.
Yellow onion (1/2 small, diced): Adds aromatic sweetness when sautéed.
Garlic (6 cloves, minced): Brings a punch of savory depth to the sauce.
Italian seasoning (2 teaspoons): A fragrant blend that brightens the dish with herbaceous notes.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances the garlic flavor while adding subtle warmth.
Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Deepens the savory foundation without overpowering.
Flour (3 tablespoons): The secret ingredient that thickens the creamy sauce to perfection.
Chicken stock (2 cups): Builds a rich, savory base for the sauce with natural chicken flavor.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Delivers that silky, indulgent texture in the sauce.
Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle tang that balances creamy richness.
Shredded rotisserie chicken (3 cups): Tender and flavorful, making this casserole quick and convenient.
Sharp cheddar cheese (8 oz., shredded, divided): Melts beautifully and brings sharp, creamy flavor.
Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, shredded): Adds nutty, salty complexity to the cheesy sauce.
Crushed Ritz crackers (3/4 cup): Creates a buttery, crispy topping that’s simply irresistible.
Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper: Essential seasonings to tie all flavors together.
Cooked white rice: Perfect to serve alongside for a complete meal.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole with Broccoli and Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe

Step 1: Prep the broccoli

Start by blanching your broccoli in salted boiling water for about 3 minutes to keep it vibrant and tender-crisp. Quickly drain and set it aside. This step ensures the broccoli doesn’t overcook in the casserole while maintaining its fresh green color and satisfying bite.

Step 2: Sauté aromatics and build the sauce base

Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a large sauté pan and toss in the diced onion with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Cook until the onions soften, about 4 minutes, releasing their natural sweetness. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder; cook for another minute to awaken their flavors. Next, sprinkle the flour over the veggies and stir constantly for a minute to eliminate any raw flour taste and start the thickening process.

Step 3: Create the creamy sauce

Slowly whisk in chicken stock in small bursts, scraping up all those delicious browned bits from the pan bottom. Add the remaining chicken stock and heavy cream until you have a silky smooth sauce. Stir in Dijon mustard for a subtle zing. Let this mixture come to a gentle simmer, then cook for about 4 minutes until thickened to creamy perfection.

Step 4: Combine cheese, broccoli, and chicken

Remove the pan from heat and whisk in half of the sharp cheddar cheese and all of the Parmesan cheese. These cheeses melt into the sauce, making it decadently cheesy and rich. Fold in the blanched broccoli and shredded rotisserie chicken, ensuring an even coating of the luscious sauce over every piece.

Step 5: Assemble and bake the casserole

Pour your creamy mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Cover tightly with foil to lock in moisture, then bake at 375°F for 20 minutes until the casserole is warmed through and bubbling with promise.

Step 6: Add the famous Ritz cracker topping

Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and toss it with the crushed Ritz crackers until every crumb is luxuriously coated. Sprinkle this golden mixture over the casserole, switch your oven to broil, and broil for 1 to 2 minutes until the topping turns a beautiful golden brown—crispy, buttery, and utterly addictive.

Step 7: Serve and savor

Serve your Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole with Broccoli and Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe alongside fluffy white rice to soak up all the creamy goodness. You’re ready to enjoy a meal that feels both homey and special!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole with Broccoli and Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe

The image shows a white pan filled with a creamy light beige sauce as the base layer, speckled with herbs and spices. On the right side of the pan, there is a layer of shredded white chicken arranged loosely over the sauce. On the left side, bright green broccoli florets sit fresh and slightly piled over the sauce, with their textured tops showing clearly. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a beautiful pop of color and fresh vibrancy that complements the richness of this casserole. If you want a little more texture, a few toasted sliced almonds on top bring a lovely nutty crunch.

Side Dishes

Serve this casserole with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the creamy richness. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread make equally wonderful companions that round out the meal without overpowering the star of the show.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive twist, try serving this casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions. Or layer it in a clear glass casserole dish to show off the gorgeous layers of broccoli, cheese, and chicken beneath the crunchy Ritz topping—your guests will be as impressed by the presentation as by the flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled to room temperature, cover any leftover Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole with Broccoli and Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and enjoy easy leftovers that taste just as comforting the second time around.

Freezing

This casserole also freezes beautifully. Assemble the casserole but hold off on baking and topping with Ritz crackers. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight and proceed with baking and adding the crunchy topping before serving.

Reheating

Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire casserole covered in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. For a crisp topping, broil for a minute or two after reheating to revive that crunchy Ritz cracker goodness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well! Just thaw and drain excess water before blanching or adding it to the casserole to avoid a watery dish.

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?

Rotisserie chicken is ideal because it’s already cooked and full of flavor, saving you time. However, you can use leftover cooked chicken breast or thighs as well.

Is there a substitute for Ritz crackers?

If you don’t have Ritz crackers, crushed buttered breadcrumbs or panko can be used to create a crunchy topping, though the buttery flavor of Ritz is tough to beat!

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, use plant-based butter, dairy-free cream alternatives, and vegan cheeses, keeping in mind the texture and flavor will differ slightly.

How spicy is this casserole?

This dish has very mild, comforting flavors with no spicy heat. The Dijon mustard adds just a subtle tang without spicing things up.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Divan Casserole with Broccoli and Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe is truly one of those dishes you’ll want to make over and over. It effortlessly combines simple ingredients into a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that tastes as good as it looks. Whether for a busy weeknight or a special get-together, this casserole is sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen. Go ahead, give it a try—you’re going to love every creamy, crispy bite!