Easy Chicken Broccoli Casserole (WW Friendly Chicken Divan)

This easy chicken broccoli casserole is a lightened-up version of my mom’s creamy, cheesy casserole from childhood. She often made it with leftover turkey or chicken, and it quickly became one of her go-to weeknight dinners.

It’s no wonder—it’s quick, budget-friendly, and so comforting. While she simply called it “chicken and broccoli casserole” (or “turkey broccoli casserole”), this dish is really a shortcut version of the American classic Chicken Divan, first created at the Divan Parisienne Hotel in New York City in the early 1900s.

Traditional Chicken Divan uses a homemade Mornay sauce (a white sauce enriched with Swiss and Parmesan cheese), which is delicious but takes more time. My mom’s version simplifies things with cream of chicken soup, evaporated milk, and a few lightened-up tweaks.

Why I Love This Lighter Chicken Divan

• Comforting and satisfying – Creamy, cheesy, and cozy while being lighter than the original.
• Family-friendly – Even picky eaters tend to love it.
• Flexible – Works with chicken, turkey, or even other cooked vegetables.
• Great for leftovers – A perfect way to stretch rotisserie chicken or Thanksgiving turkey.

Ingredients and Substitutions

• Cooked chicken breast – I use boneless, skinless breasts, but thighs or leftover rotisserie chicken (or even turkey) work just as well.
• Frozen broccoli cuts – Easy and convenient, but fresh steamed broccoli florets are great too. Green beans, cauliflower, or mixed veggies also make good swaps.
• 98% fat-free cream of chicken soup – Lightens things up while still giving a creamy base. Cream of mushroom or celery soup also works, or even leftover turkey gravy.
• Non-fat evaporated milk – Adds richness without extra fat. You could use 1% or 2% milk if that’s what you have.
• Lemon juice – A splash of acid brightens up the creamy sauce. Fresh is best, but bottled will do.
• Reduced-fat cheddar cheese – Melty and flavorful. Swap with Swiss, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for variety.
• Italian-style breadcrumbs – For a crispy topping. Crushed crackers, cornflakes, or even potato chips can stand in.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds sharpness to the breadcrumb topping. Optional, but recommended for flavor.
• Cooking spray – Helps the topping crisp without the need for extra butter.

WW Points and Nutrition

According to my calculations, each serving of this lightened up chicken and broccoli casserole has about:

• Calories: 362
• WW Points: 5
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• Old Points: 9 PointsPlus

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Casserole (Step by Step)

Step 1: Prep the oven and pan

Heat oven to 350°F. Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix the chicken and broccoli

In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken and cooked broccoli.

Step 3: Make the sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, evaporated milk, and lemon juice until smooth. Pour this mixture over the chicken and broccoli and stir until well coated.

Step 4: Assemble the casserole

Spread the chicken-broccoli mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Add the topping

Mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan together, then sprinkle evenly over the casserole. Lightly mist with cooking spray to help it crisp in the oven.

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.

Recipe Notes and Variations

• Veggie Swaps
  Cauliflower, peas, or mixed vegetables can replace broccoli.
• No breadcrumbs?
  Try crushed crackers, panko, or skip entirely for a gluten-free option.
• Make-Ahead
  Assemble up to a day in advance, refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
• Freezer-Friendly
  Freeze before baking (without the breadcrumb topping), then thaw overnight in the fridge and bake when ready.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is hearty enough on its own, but you can round out the meal with:

• A crisp green salad and vinaigrette
• A slice of whole-grain bread or French bread
• Roasted carrots or slow cooker acorn squash
• A small serving with a cup of soup for lunch

Storage and Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave (affiliate link) or warm the whole dish in the oven at 325°F until heated through.
• Freezer: This casserole freezes well. Wrap tightly in foil or portion into freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Meal Prep Tip: Assemble the casserole ahead of time (without baking) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes it perfect for holidays or busy weeknights.

If you’ve made this Enlightened Chicken Divan, please give the recipe a star rating below and leave a comment letting me know how you liked it. And stay in touch on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for the latest updates.

More WW-Friendly Casseroles You’ll Love

• Slow Cooker Broccoli Corn Casserole
  A creamy side dish that practically makes itself.
• Slow Cooker Chicken Rice and Broccoli
  An all-in-one comfort meal that’s WW-friendly and family approved.
• Weight Watchers Casserole Recipes
  A collection of lightened-up casseroles for every season.
• Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole Made Lighter
  A nostalgic favorite with a healthier twist.
• 2-Ingredient Creamy CrockPot Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup
  Almost effortless but full of flavor, perfect for busy nights.

Cook More, Stress Less

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