This Chicken Lasagna is a delicious twist on the classic Italian dish. Layered with tender chicken, a creamy white sauce, and plenty of cheese, this version is a comfort food favorite that’s both rich and satisfying. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to please!
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Ingredients
For the Chicken Filling:
- 500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breast (cooked and shredded)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup spinach (optional, can be substituted with other greens)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided into 2 parts)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the White Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Lasagna:
- 9-12 lasagna noodles (depending on size of your pan, cooked and drained)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Directions
1. Prepare the Chicken Filling
- Cook the Chicken: In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breast and cook until browned and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes per side). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then shred it using two forks.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same pan, sauté the chopped onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sautéed onion and garlic, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Add spinach (optional) and mix until well combined.
2. Prepare the White Sauce
- Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add 4 tablespoons flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until the flour is lightly browned.
- Add Milk and Broth: Gradually add milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook, whisking, until the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
- Season the Sauce: Stir in garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat once the sauce has thickened.
3. Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer the Lasagna: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, start with a thin layer of the white sauce at the bottom. Then, layer 3-4 lasagna noodles on top (depending on the size of your pan). Add a layer of the chicken mixture, followed by a layer of white sauce. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of the white sauce on top.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese over the top.
4. Bake the Lasagna
- Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let the lasagna rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
5. Serve
Slice and serve with a side salad or garlic bread. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of this delicious chicken lasagna!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh green salad dressed with vinaigrette.
- Pair with garlic bread or crusty baguette for a complete meal.
- For a lighter option, pair with steamed vegetables.
- Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water.
Cooking Tips
- No-boil noodles: If you prefer, you can use no-boil lasagna noodles. Just be sure to add a little extra sauce to ensure the noodles cook properly in the oven.
- Chicken Options: You can use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut or swap in ground chicken for a different texture.
- Make Ahead: This lasagna can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Simply cover it tightly and bake it just before serving.
- Freezing: Lasagna freezes well! Assemble it fully, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed.
Nutritional Benefits
- Protein: The chicken in this lasagna provides a healthy source of lean protein.
- Calcium: The mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses contribute calcium for healthy bones.
- Vitamins: The spinach and other vegetables add vitamins A and C.
- Healthy Fats: The olive oil in the recipe provides heart-healthy fats.
Storage
Store leftover chicken lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting & Hearty: A rich, cheesy meal that satisfies your cravings.
- Packed with Flavor: The creamy white sauce and savory chicken filling make this lasagna truly indulgent.
- Versatile: You can easily adjust the recipe to include your favorite vegetables or cheese.
Conclusion
Chicken lasagna is the perfect dish for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. Its creamy texture, savory chicken filling, and cheesy goodness will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you make it ahead of time or fresh from scratch, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use ground chicken instead of shredded chicken?
- Yes, ground chicken works perfectly as a substitute for shredded chicken in this recipe.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Yes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or ricotta for different flavors.
- Can I use gluten-free pasta?
- Yes, you can use gluten-free lasagna noodles if you need a gluten-free version of this dish.
- Can I freeze chicken lasagna?
- Yes, you can freeze it after assembling. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
- How do I store leftover chicken lasagna?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Can I add vegetables to this lasagna?
- Yes, you can add vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the chicken mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Is this recipe spicy?
- No, this recipe isn’t spicy. However, you can add red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Can I use dairy-free cheese in this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute dairy-free cheese if you’re following a dairy-free diet.
- What should I serve with chicken lasagna?
- Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.