Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan Recipe

Searching for the perfect copycat Barefoot Contessa chicken divan recipe ends here with a rich, comforting dish inspired by timeless flavors.

This Ina Garten chicken divan showcases tender poached chicken breasts layered over crisp steamed broccoli, all wrapped in a silky white wine cream sauce and finished with a bubbling blanket of Gruyère cheese. Made in true chicken divan barefoot contessa style, this classic casserole turns simple ingredients into an elegant centerpiece suitable for both casual family dinners and special gatherings.

As a standout broccoli chicken divan, it delivers restaurant-quality taste using approachable techniques, making this chicken divan a dependable favorite you’ll enjoy preparing again and again.

What Does It Taste Like?

The chicken divan Ina Garten style is a symphony of rich, comforting flavors. The tender, juicy poached chicken provides a mild, savory base that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.

Each forkful of broccoli chicken divan delivers the nutty, slightly sweet flavor of perfectly cooked broccoli, complemented by the velvety sauce infused with aromatic shallots, dry white wine, and a whisper of nutmeg. The star of the show is undoubtedly the Gruyère topping nutty, slightly sweet, and intensely savory with those irresistible caramelized, crispy edges from broiling.

This chicken divan with fresh broccoli strikes that perfect balance between indulgent and wholesome, with layers of flavor that make every bite incredibly satisfying.

Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan Recipe Ingredients

For the Chicken and Broccoli:

• 4 chicken breast halves (about 2 full breasts), bone-in or boneless
• 6 cups chicken stock (for poaching)
• 1½ to 2 pounds fresh broccoli florets (about 6-8 cups)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ⅓ cup finely minced shallots (about 2 medium shallots)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
• 1½ cups chicken stock
• ⅓ cup heavy cream
• Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg (about ⅛ teaspoon)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• 2 to 2½ cups freshly grated Gruyère cheese (about 8 ounces)

Kitchen Utensils

• Large pot or deep skillet (for poaching chicken)
• Large pot with steamer basket (for broccoli)
• Medium saucepan (for sauce)
• Whisk
• 9×13-inch baking dish or similar large casserole dish
• Box grater or food processor (for cheese)
• Tongs or slotted spoon
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes (including broiling)
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6-8 servings

Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Poach the Chicken

Bring 6 cups of chicken stock to a gentle simmer in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to maintain a very gentle simmer (not a rolling boil) and poach for 18-22 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Remove chicken with tongs, let cool for 5-10 minutes, then slice into ½-inch thick pieces or shred into bite-sized chunks. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

While the chicken poaches, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (or use a steamer). Add broccoli florets and cook for 4-6 minutes until just tender and bright green they should still have a slight bite.

Immediately drain the broccoli very thoroughly in a colander, shaking off excess water. Let sit for a few minutes to ensure no water pools in your casserole. Pat dry with paper towels if needed.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add minced shallots and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent, stirring frequently. Sprinkle flour over the shallots and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook the raw flour taste out while keeping the roux pale blonde (don’t let it brown). Slowly whisk in the white wine, stirring until smooth.

Gradually add the chicken stock while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Stir in the heavy cream, add the pinch of nutmeg, and season generously with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Chicken Divan

Preheat your broiler to high and position the oven rack about 6 inches from the heating element. Arrange the well-drained broccoli florets in an even layer across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, creating a “mountain” base.

Distribute the sliced or shredded poached chicken evenly over the broccoli layer. Pour the warm creamy sauce over the entire dish, using a spoon to ensure the sauce reaches into all the corners and coats the chicken and broccoli thoroughly.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Broil

Sprinkle the grated Gruyère cheese generously and evenly over the entire surface, creating a thick blanket that will melt into a beautiful golden crust. The cheese layer should be substantial don’t be shy!

Place the baking dish under the preheated broiler and broil for 3-5 minutes, watching very carefully. The cheese should melt completely, become bubbly, and develop gorgeous golden-brown spots across the top. Rotate the dish if needed for even browning, but watch constantly to prevent burning.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken divan with broccoli from the oven and let it rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to settle slightly and makes serving easier.

Serve immediately while hot and bubbly, spooning generous portions that include broccoli, chicken, sauce, and that irresistible cheesy crust in every serving.

Customization and Pairing for Serving Ideas

1. Protein Variations: While this classic chicken divan Ina Garten recipe uses poached chicken breasts, you can easily substitute with rotisserie chicken for a time-saving shortcut, leftover turkey (perfect for post-Thanksgiving meals), or even cooked salmon for a sophisticated seafood twist. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with roasted cauliflower florets or cremini mushrooms and use vegetable stock.

2. Cheese Alternatives: Though Gruyère provides that signature nutty, complex flavor, feel free to experiment with sharp white cheddar for a more pronounced bite, Emmental for authentic Swiss character, or a combination of Parmesan and mozzarella for an Italian-inspired take. A blend of half Gruyère and half aged cheddar offers the best of both worlds.

3. Comfort Meal Pairings: Pastalaya delivers bold, smoky Cajun flavor ideal for hearty dinners, while barefoot contessa cranberry sauce adds a bright, tangy contrast that refreshes the palate and balances rich, savory main dishes beautifully.

4. Vegetable Mix-ins: This chicken divan with fresh broccoli is delicious as-is, but you can boost nutrition and color by adding sautéed mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or steamed cauliflower florets alongside the broccoli. Baby spinach wilted into the sauce adds iron and vibrant green color without overwhelming the classic flavor profile.

5. Sauce Enhancements: Elevate your barefoot contessa chicken divan by stirring a tablespoon of Dijon mustard into the sauce for subtle tang, adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness, or incorporating fresh thyme or tarragon for herbaceous notes. A dash of white truffle oil drizzled before serving adds luxurious depth.

6. Soup and Dessert Balance: Barefoot contessa black bean soup works as a satisfying, protein-rich starter, while barefoot contessa coconut custard pie finishes the meal with smooth, creamy sweetness, creating a well-rounded menu from start to finish.

7. Pairing with Sides: This rich casserole pairs beautifully with simple, light accompaniments. Serve alongside buttered egg noodles, fluffy white rice, garlic mashed potatoes, or crusty French bread for soaking up extra sauce. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted asparagus provides refreshing contrast to the creamy, cheesy main dish.

8. Wine Pairing: Since this chicken broccoli divan contains white wine in the sauce, continue the theme by serving it with a chilled glass of the same wine you cooked with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or unoaked Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce perfectly. For red wine lovers, a light Pinot Noir won’t overwhelm the delicate chicken flavors.

9. Make it Individual: Transform this family-style casserole into elegant individual servings by assembling the broccoli chicken divan in ramekins or small gratin dishes. This presentation is perfect for dinner parties and allows you to control portions while creating an impressive plated presentation. Broil each ramekin individually for personalized golden-brown cheese tops.

10. Sweet and Hearty Classics: Barefoot contessa tzimmes offers gentle sweetness from carrots and dried fruit, while barefoot contessa turkey chili provides a lighter yet filling comfort option, perfect for cozy gatherings and family-style serving.

Essential Tips for Perfect Results

1. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: The key to juicy chicken in your copycat barefoot contessa chicken divan recipe is gentle poaching. Keep the stock at a bare simmer bubbles should barely break the surface. Aggressive boiling makes chicken tough and dry. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for 165°F at the thickest part, then remove immediately. The residual heat will finish the cooking as it rests.

2. Thoroughly Drain Your Broccoli: This is perhaps the most crucial tip for avoiding a watery, disappointing chicken divan barefoot contessa casserole. After cooking the broccoli, drain it completely and let it sit in the colander for several minutes. Excess moisture will dilute your beautiful sauce and prevent proper browning. Pat the florets with paper towels if they still seem wet this extra step makes all the difference.

3. Comfort Meal Pairings: Pastalaya delivers bold, smoky Cajun flavor ideal for hearty dinners, while barefoot contessa cranberry sauce adds a bright, tangy contrast that refreshes the palate and balances rich, savory main dishes beautifully.

3. Master the Roux Technique: A proper roux is the foundation of your silky sauce. Cook the flour and butter mixture for the full 1-2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste, but keep the heat at medium to avoid browning. Stir constantly and whisk vigorously when adding liquids to prevent lumps. If lumps do form, strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve before assembling your dish.

4. Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting and can create a grainy texture. For the most luscious, evenly melted topping on your chicken divan with broccoli, grate a block of Gruyère yourself just before assembling. The few extra minutes of prep yield dramatically better results with superior flavor and texture.

Soup and Dessert Balance: Barefoot contessa black bean soup works as a satisfying, protein-rich starter, while barefoot contessa coconut custard pie finishes the meal with smooth, creamy sweetness, creating a well-rounded menu from start to finish.

5. Watch the Broiler Closely: The difference between perfectly golden and burnt happens in mere seconds under the broiler. Never walk away while broiling stay at the oven with the door slightly ajar so you can monitor the cheese constantly. If one area browns faster than others, rotate the dish quickly. Some ovens have hot spots, so knowing your equipment helps achieve even browning across the entire surface.

6. Season Generously at Each Stage: Build layers of flavor by seasoning the chicken poaching liquid, the broccoli cooking water, and the sauce separately. Taste your sauce before pouring it over the casserole and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Remember that the Gruyère adds saltiness, so slightly under-season the sauce rather than over-season you can always add more at serving, but you can’t take it away.

7. Let Temperature Work for You: All components should be warm when assembling your broccoli chicken divan. Cold chicken and broccoli will cool down your sauce, making it thick and difficult to spread evenly. If you’ve prepared components ahead, gently rewarm them before assembly. Conversely, let the finished casserole rest for those crucial few minutes after broiling this allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes serving much neater without sacrificing that piping-hot serving temperature.

Sweet and Hearty Classics: Barefoot contessa tzimmes offers gentle sweetness from carrots and dried fruit, while barefoot contessa turkey chili provides a lighter yet filling comfort option, perfect for cozy gatherings and family-style serving.

Storage and Reheating Guidance

Store leftover chicken divan Ina Garten style in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave at 50% power, or cover the entire dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. For best results, avoid freezing as the cream sauce and broccoli texture suffer upon thawing.