Chicken Divine

From Miss Mary's Kitchen

           Chicken Divine

This recipe has a lot of sentimental value to both Norm and I. When we were cleaning up his uncle's house a few years ago, we came across an old recipe file box. In that box were most of the recipes that Norm's aunt and mother had gathered and shared over many years of cooking together. He had thought this treasure trove to be lost, so you can imagine the excitement when they were found!

Norm's mother was the secretary of their church. In the South, you will know that part of the church activites often include a "covered dish" event. Whether a circle meeting, christening or just a gathering of the members, Liz Bentley was always a cheerful participant. This dish was often requested, and the original name was altered as a result of the praises she received when brought to the occasion. I am sure you will recognize this as a version of Chicken Divan, but around their house it was always called . . .

CHICKEN DIVINE!
Serves 6 - 8

2-10 oz. pkg. frozen broccoli florets (or 1 large bunch fresh)
2 c. cooked chicken (3-4 breasts), chunked
2 cans cream of chicken soup (or cream of celery, or 1 each)
1 c. mayonnaise
1 T. fresh lemon juice
1/2 t. curry powder
1/2 c. soft bread crumbs
1 T. butter, melted
1/2 c. shredded cheddar cheese
Cooked rice

Cook broccoli until almost done. Drain and arrange in a 9 x 13 baking dish. Place chicken chunks on top. In a mixing bowl, combine soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice and curry powder. Pour this mixture over the broccoli and chicken. Sprinkle the casserole with cheese. Mix bread crumbs and butter, spread over all.

Bake in a 350 degree oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and browned.
Serve over rice.

NOTE: this recipe freezes well. Line the baking dish with heavy duty aluminum foil so you can remove the contents once frozen. Prepare it up to the final topping of bread crumbs and butter, and freeze. Allow to thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then return to the baking dish and top. Add 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to allow the ingredients to thoroughly heat through.