This chicken Divan recipe with mayo is an excellent way to use up leftovers. My family loves this recipe. My kids love it because the broccoli is hidden under all the chicken and cheese!
For an elevated version, consider making a béchamel sauce from scratch instead of condensed soups for a creamier, less processed base. Blanching fresh broccoli florets until crisp-tender will offer better texture and flavor than frozen, preventing mushiness. Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice; it brightens the rich sauce significantly. A pinch of nutmeg can also enhance the cream sauce. To prevent the chicken from drying out, ensure it's fully cooked but not overdone before adding to the casserole. Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully. Consider a blend of cheeses (e.g., sharp Cheddar and a touch of Parmesan) for more complex flavor.