Noodles Chicken Divan
Creamy Chicken Divan with noodles, broccoli, bell peppers, and tender chicken, offering a comforting blend of flavors perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped red bell pepper, scallions, and chopped broccoli.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes.
- Stir in chicken broth, light cream, cooked noodles, and chopped cooked chicken.
- Heat to boiling.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes or until noodles are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using whole wheat noodles instead of medium noodles. You can also swap the light cream for a low-fat Greek yogurt to reduce calories without sacrificing creaminess. If fresh broccoli isn't available, frozen broccoli works well, just be sure to thaw and drain it before cooking. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the dish's flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Noodles Chicken Divan with a side salad for a refreshing contrast, or pair it with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. It can also be a great main dish complemented by a light vegetable side like steamed green beans or a mixed greens salad. This dish pairs beautifully with Easy Baked Chicken (Low-Fat) for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings in a covered dish, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Noodles Chicken Divan contains roughly 1343 calories, with 10g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 111g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 501mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of protein in this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can substitute cooked turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that any protein used is cooked before adding it to the dish.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply replace the medium noodles with gluten-free pasta. Additionally, ensure that the chicken broth is labeled gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. This adaptation maintains the dish's delicious flavors while accommodating dietary needs.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor. For a bit of zest, you might also add a squeeze of lemon juice or some grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).