This Chicken and Mushroom Lasagna is a delicious twist on the classic lasagna. Packed with tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, it’s perfect for a comforting meal that will satisfy the whole family.
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 leek, finely chopped
- Oil (for sautéing)
- 400g chicken fillet, diced
- Water (as needed)
- 400g mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tomato, diced
- 100g tomato sauce
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- “Spring Green” spice mix (to taste)
- 50g butter
- 5 tablespoons flour
- 1 liter milk
- Nutmeg (to taste)
- 200g cheese, grated
- 12 lasagna sheets
Directions:
- Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables:
- In a large pan, heat some oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped leek and sauté until soft.
- Add the diced chicken fillet to the pan and cook until browned. Add a bit of water if necessary to prevent sticking.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Cook until the mushrooms are soft and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Stir in the diced tomato and tomato sauce. Season with salt, black pepper, and “Spring Green” spice mix. Cook for another 5 minutes, then set aside.
- Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and stir constantly to form a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens.
- Season with salt and nutmeg to taste.
- Add 100g of the grated cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and well combined.
- Assemble the Lasagna:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the béchamel sauce on the bottom.
- Place 3 lasagna sheets over the sauce.
- Spread a layer of the chicken and mushroom mixture over the lasagna sheets.
- Cover with another layer of béchamel sauce.
- Repeat the layers (lasagna sheets, chicken mixture, béchamel sauce) until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of béchamel sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining 100g of grated cheese on top.
- Bake the Lasagna:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy your delicious Chicken and Mushroom Lasagna!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Pair with a glass of white wine for an elegant touch.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in some herbs and spices before cooking.
- You can use a mix of different cheeses for a richer taste.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Chicken: Provides lean protein.
- Mushrooms: Rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Leek: Adds dietary fiber and essential nutrients.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free lasagna sheets and flour.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with extra mushrooms or a meat substitute.
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful: Packed with rich flavors from the chicken, mushrooms, and creamy sauce.
- Comforting: A warm and hearty dish perfect for family dinners.
- Versatile: Easy to adapt to different dietary needs.
Conclusion:
This Chicken and Mushroom Lasagna is a delightful variation of the classic lasagna, offering a rich and comforting meal that everyone will love. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use different types of mushrooms for this recipe?
Yes, you can use various types of mushrooms such as cremini, shiitake, or portobello for different flavors and textures. - Can I prepare this lasagna in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. - What can I use instead of leek if I don’t have one?
You can substitute leek with finely chopped onions or shallots. - Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Try using cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or mozzarella, or a combination for a richer flavor. - How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free lasagna sheets and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. - Can I add extra vegetables to this lasagna?
Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. - How do I prevent the lasagna from becoming too watery?
Ensure the béchamel sauce is thickened properly and avoid overloading with tomato sauce or vegetables that release excess moisture. - Can I freeze the lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving. - How can I make the lasagna spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or additional spicy seasonings to the chicken and mushroom mixture. - What can I use instead of béchamel sauce?
You can use a ricotta cheese mixture or a simple tomato sauce if you prefer. Adjust seasoning to taste.