January. Cue the sighs. The months to come are arguably the longest, gloomiest and most dreadful ones of the year. Somehow, in January, the days seem longer, the homework more tedious and weather even more unbearable than usual. But as always, there is a recipe for this problem: chicken divan.

This filling dish layered with protein and laden with a warm curry sauce is the ultimate definition of comfort food. Ever since I was little, chicken divan has proved the cure to any gloomy day blues. I wanted to share this recipe with all of you in the hopes that it would bring you some warmth and joy this winter season. It is relatively quick to make and can last you throughout the week, for a quick reheated dinner or lunch. The perfect balance of carbohydrates, protein and color, chicken divan is just as good for you as it is delicious. 

Ingredients:

• 2 cooked chicken breasts (cut)
• 1 head of broccoli
• 3-4 cups white rice
• 1 can of cream of chicken(low fat)
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• Juice of ½ a lemon
• 1 Tablespoon curry
• Bread crumbs (around 1 piece of toast)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Cook 3-4 cups of white rice, following directions on the package. Spread the rice on the bottom of a 9 by 13 casserole dish. 
3. Cut up cooked chicken. I typically use a rotisserie chicken and layer that on top of the rice.
4. Steam one head of broccoli and cut it up into florets, layering on top of the chicken and rice. 
5. In a bowl, mix mayo, lemon juice and curry, then spread evenly across the top of the casserole. 
6. Sprinkle with grated cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
7. Place in the oven and cook for 30 minutes.

Happy cooking!