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Chicken Divan (Paleo & AIP-Friendly)

Chicken Divan
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This Paleo and AIP-friendly Chicken Divan is a creamy, comforting casserole made with tender chicken, broccoli, and a luscious coconut cream-based sauce. Topped with crispy plantain chips for a satisfying crunch, it’s a healthy twist on the classic dish—perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!

Ingredients

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For the Casserole:
  • 5 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
  • ½ tsp sea salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper (omit for AIP)
  • 1 tbsp arrowroot starch
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp avocado oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1¼ cups chicken broth (reserve ¼ cup)
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • ⅓ cup coconut cream
  • ⅓ tsp sea salt
  • 1 tbsp + 2 tsp arrowroot starch

For the Topping:

  • 1½ cups plantain chips (finely crushed)
  • 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional for cheesy flavor)
  • 1 tbsp parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Broccoli

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add broccoli florets and simmer for 5 minutes until fork-tender but still bright green. Drain and spread evenly in a greased 9×13″ casserole dish.

Step 2: Cook Chicken

Season cubed chicken with sea salt and black pepper (if using). Toss with arrowroot starch. Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken for 4–5 minutes, until golden and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Using the same skillet, heat avocado oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant (30 seconds). Add chicken broth (reserving ¼ cup), apple cider vinegar, coconut cream, and sea salt. Stir and bring to a low simmer. Whisk reserved broth with arrowroot starch in a small bowl until smooth, then stir into the sauce. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat oven to 400°F. Add cooked chicken to the casserole dish with broccoli and mix gently to combine. Pour sauce evenly over the top.

Step 5: Add Topping & Bake

Mix crushed plantain chips with nutritional yeast (if using), then sprinkle over the casserole. Bake uncovered for 15–18 minutes, until bubbling and golden brown on top.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Top with fresh parsley before serving. Pair with cauliflower rice or mashed sweet potatoes for a complete meal!

Notes

Serving Suggestions:

This dish pairs beautifully with cauliflower rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad for a balanced meal.

Tips & Tricks:

  1. Don’t overcook broccoli: It will soften further during baking—blanching just until fork-tender is key.
  2. Thickening the sauce: Stir constantly when adding the arrowroot mixture to avoid lumps. If lumps form, whisk vigorously or blend briefly.

Storage & Reheating:

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warmed through.
  • Freezing: Assemble the casserole without topping and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before adding topping and baking as directed.

Find it online: https://easyrecipeacademy.com/chicken-divan/