Treat your family to a two-in-one culinary adventure with "Chicken Divan Tonight, Chicken Tetrazzini Next Week"—a deliciously versatile recipe that simplifies weeknight meal prep. Perfect for busy schedules, this recipe transforms basic ingredients like tender chicken, creamy cheddar-Parmesan sauce, and fresh broccoli into a bubbly, golden Chicken Divan for tonight’s dinner. Set aside half the velvety sauce, and with minimal effort, repurpose it into a decadent Chicken Tetrazzini with spaghetti, garlic-sautéed mushrooms, and a crispy breadcrumb topping—ready to bake or freeze for later. With a quick prep time, rich flavors, and family-friendly appeal, this recipe is the ultimate make-ahead comfort food solution. Keywords: Chicken Divan, Chicken Tetrazzini, make-ahead meals, easy weeknight dinners, freezer-friendly recipes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Steam the broccoli florets until tender but still vibrant green, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
Gradually add chicken broth and milk, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, and sour cream until smooth. Remove half of this sauce and set aside for the Chicken Tetrazzini.
In a 9x13-inch baking dish, layer 3 cups of the cooked chicken, the steamed broccoli, and the remaining sauce. Sprinkle with paprika and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese.
Bake for 25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Serve hot as Chicken Divan.
For the Chicken Tetrazzini, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the mushrooms and garlic until softened. Add the white wine and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
Stir in the reserved half of the sauce along with 3 cups of cooked chicken. Combine with the cooked spaghetti.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and the remaining Parmesan cheese.
Cover with foil and freezer-safe wrap (if storing for later) or bake immediately at 375°F for 20 minutes, uncovered for the last 10 minutes to toast the top.
Enjoy Chicken Divan tonight and freeze or have Chicken Tetrazzini ready for next week!
Calories |
8242 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 383.8 g | 492% | |
| Saturated Fat | 206.4 g | 1032% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 2067 mg | 689% | |
| Sodium | 13803 mg | 600% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 467.4 g | 170% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 29.0 g | 104% | |
| Total Sugars | 67.0 g | ||
| Protein | 707.6 g | 1415% | |
| Vitamin D | 7.4 mcg | 37% | |
| Calcium | 6098 mg | 469% | |
| Iron | 34.9 mg | 194% | |
| Potassium | 6957 mg | 148% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.