Looking for a quick, creamy, and comforting meal that doesn’t require a ton of cleanup? Skillet Chicken Divan is your answer! This one-pan wonder combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich, cheesy sauce—all cooked to perfection in a skillet.

This dish has been a family favorite for decades, originally created as a fancy casserole. But in this version, we’re skipping the baking dish and whipping it up entirely in a skillet—making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. Whether you’re a home cook looking for something easy yet flavorful or just craving something warm and creamy, this dish has got you covered.

In this article, we’ll explore:

The origins and history of Skillet Chicken Divan
A detailed step-by-step recipe
Tips to get the best flavors
Customization ideas for different diets
What to serve with this comfort food classic

Let’s dive right in!

What is Skillet Chicken Divan?

A Brief History of Chicken Divan

Chicken Divan has been around since the 1950s, originally served at the Divan Parisien Restaurant in New York City. The dish was designed to be elegant yet comforting, featuring poached chicken, broccoli, and a creamy Mornay sauce (a cheese-laden béchamel). Over time, home cooks adapted the recipe, swapping fancy ingredients for more accessible pantry staples like cheddar cheese and cream of mushroom soup.

Today, Skillet Chicken Divan has evolved into a quick, stovetop version that delivers the same creamy, cheesy goodness without the need for an oven. It’s a go-to recipe for busy families and comfort food lovers alike.

Why Cook It in a Skillet?

Traditionally, Chicken Divan is baked in a casserole dish, but the skillet method has a few advantages:
Saves time – No need to preheat an oven or wait for baking time.
Less cleanup – Everything cooks in one pan, reducing dishwashing duties.
Better flavor – Cooking the ingredients together in a skillet creates richer, deeper flavors.

Plus, using a cast-iron or stainless-steel skillet helps develop a beautiful golden crust on the chicken while keeping the dish creamy and luscious. It’s a win-win for both convenience and taste!

Ingredients Needed for Skillet Chicken Divan

A great dish starts with the right ingredients. This skillet chicken divan recipe is simple, flavorful, and easy to customize. Below are the essentials, along with alternative options to suit different dietary needs.

Essential Ingredients for the Classic Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make a creamy, cheesy, and savory skillet chicken divan:

Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best.
Broccoli – Fresh or frozen florets add color and texture.
Cheese – Cheddar cheese is classic, but Swiss or Gruyère adds a deeper flavor.
Cream of Chicken Soup – A shortcut for making the sauce rich and thick.
Milk or Heavy Cream – Creates a silky, creamy base for the sauce.
Butter – For a rich, buttery flavor.
Garlic and Onion Powder – Enhance the overall depth of the dish.
Breadcrumbs (optional) – Add a crispy topping for extra texture.
Lemon Juice – A hint of acidity to balance the richness.

Substitutions and Variations

Low-Carb or Keto? Swap cream of chicken soup for cream cheese and heavy cream.
Gluten-Free? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip them altogether.
Dairy-Free? Substitute cheese with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cheese.

Want to try another creamy chicken dish? Check out this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole for more inspiration!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking chicken in a skillet with butter on a stovetop.

Now that we have all the ingredients, it’s time to cook! This one-pan method makes preparing skillet chicken divan fast, easy, and packed with flavor.

Preparing the Chicken

Season the chicken – Sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Heat a skillet – Add butter or olive oil and set it over medium-high heat.
Sear the chicken – Cook each side for 4–5 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Making the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and stir in the cream of chicken soup.
Gradually add milk or heavy cream, stirring to create a smooth sauce.
Mix in cheese, allowing it to melt into a rich, creamy consistency.
Stir in lemon juice to balance the flavors.

Assembling and Cooking in the Skillet

Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce.
Add broccoli, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
Cover and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
Optional: Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and broil for a golden, crispy finish.

And just like that, your delicious, creamy skillet chicken divan is ready to serve!

Tips for Perfect Skillet Chicken Divan

Cooking skillet chicken divan is simple, but a few key techniques can take it from good to incredibly delicious. Here are some expert tips to help you get the best results every time.

Choosing the Right Skillet

A heavy-bottomed skillet is best for even heat distribution. Here’s what to consider:
Cast iron skillets hold heat well and create a nice crust on the chicken.
Stainless steel pans help develop rich flavors in the sauce.
Nonstick pans work, but they may not brown the chicken as well.

How to Get the Best Flavor

Sear the chicken properly – A deep golden color locks in moisture and flavor.
Use fresh ingredients – Fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar make a difference.
Balance the sauce – If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth. Too thin? Add more cheese.
Don’t overcook – Simmer until the chicken is just cooked through.

Want to try another creamy dish? Check out this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole for more inspiration!

Skillet Chicken Divan Recipe Variations

Looking to switch things up? Skillet chicken divan is versatile, and you can customize it to fit your diet or taste preferences. Here are some fun variations to try!

Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Options

If you’re following a low-carb diet, make these simple swaps:

Replace cream of chicken soup with a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and heavy cream.
Use steamed cauliflower instead of broccoli for variety.
Skip the breadcrumbs to keep the dish keto-friendly.

Dairy-Free and Gluten-Free Adaptations

Swap out regular cheese for dairy-free alternatives, like nutritional yeast or cashew cheese.
Use a gluten-free thickener, like cornstarch or arrowroot powder, instead of flour-based soups.
Try gluten-free breadcrumbs if you want that crispy topping.

This dish is all about flexibility—so feel free to mix and match ingredients to make it your own!

What to Serve with Skillet Chicken Divan?

Plated skillet chicken divan with rice and roasted asparagus.

Skillet chicken divan is already a creamy, comforting meal, but the right sides can take it to the next level. Whether you want something light and fresh or warm and hearty, there’s a perfect pairing for every occasion.

Best Side Dishes to Complement the Dish

Since skillet chicken divan is rich and creamy, a lighter side can balance the meal. Here are a few great options:

Steamed Rice or Quinoa – The sauce pairs beautifully with grains.
Roasted Vegetables – Try asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots for added texture.
Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls – Perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce.
Crisp Green Salad – A fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness.

Wine and Beverage Pairings

Pairing a drink with skillet chicken divan can enhance its flavors. Here’s what works best:

Chardonnay – A buttery white wine complements the creamy sauce.
Sauvignon Blanc – Crisp and citrusy, it balances the dish’s richness.
Lemon Iced Tea – A refreshing, non-alcoholic option.

With the right sides and drinks, you’ll have a well-rounded, satisfying meal every time!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best cooks can make mistakes, but avoiding these common errors will help you create a perfect skillet chicken divan every time.

Overcooking the Chicken

Nobody likes dry chicken! Here’s how to prevent it:

Sear the chicken properly before adding it to the sauce.
Simmer gently, rather than boiling, to keep it tender.
Use a meat thermometer and cook to 165°F (75°C) for the best results.

Making the Sauce Too Thick or Too Thin

A good sauce should be smooth and creamy, not watery or clumpy.

Too thick? Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up.
Too thin? Stir in more cheese or let it simmer longer.
Lumpy? Whisk the ingredients together slowly while cooking.

By keeping an eye on these details, your skillet chicken divan will turn out rich, flavorful, and absolutely delicious!

FAQs on Skillet Chicken Divan

Got questions about making skillet chicken divan? Here are some frequently asked questions to help you master this one-pan favorite.

Can I Use Frozen Broccoli?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a convenient substitute for fresh. However, keep these tips in mind:

Thaw and drain excess moisture to prevent a watery sauce.
Blanch quickly in boiling water for a firmer texture.
Cook directly from frozen if you prefer softer broccoli.

How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?

Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge. For best results:

Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed.
Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can dry out the chicken.

Can I Make It Ahead of Time?

Yes! To prep in advance:

Cook the sauce and chicken separately, then combine before serving.
Refrigerate overnight, and warm up when ready to eat.
Assemble everything but don’t cook—just heat it up in the skillet later.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Skillet chicken divan is the perfect one-pan meal—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal, this dish is sure to be a hit.

With its simple ingredients, customizable variations, and easy cooking method, it’s a recipe that anyone can master. Just remember to balance the sauce, avoid overcooking the chicken, and pair it with the right sides for a complete meal.

So why not give it a try? Grab your skillet and enjoy a comforting homemade meal that’s both delicious and satisfying!