Chicken lasagna with creamy white sauce is a delightful twist on the traditional lasagna, featuring tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich, velvety sauce. This dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, offering a comforting and flavorful meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
Spinach Cream Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups half and half (or equal parts of heavy cream and milk)
- 5 ounces fresh spinach, coarsely chopped
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Cheese Sauce:
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spinach Cream Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add butter to the skillet and let it melt. Stir in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and half and half (or heavy cream and milk). Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and comes to a simmer.
- Add the chopped spinach, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce is well combined. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Cheese Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Assembling the Lasagna:
- Spread a thin layer of the spinach cream sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by a layer of the ricotta cheese mixture, mozzarella cheese, and more spinach cream sauce. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a final layer of sauce and mozzarella cheese on top.
- Baking:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the chicken lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Enjoy your delicious and creamy chicken lasagna!
Nutritional Benefits
This chicken lasagna is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken provides high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. The spinach in the creamy white sauce adds a good dose of vitamins A and C, iron, and fiber, making this dish both tasty and nutritious.
Cooking Tips
- Layering: Ensure that the layers are evenly distributed for consistent flavor and texture throughout the lasagna. Don’t overstuff each layer; keep them even and smooth.
- Resting Time: Let the lasagna sit for about 10 minutes after baking before cutting into it. This allows the layers to set and makes slicing easier.
- Adjusting Thickness: If your sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or milk to reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and increase the amount of spinach or add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and ensure the flour used in the sauce is gluten-free to make this dish suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
- Extra Cheese: For cheese lovers, add a layer of shredded cheddar or gouda between the layers for an extra cheesy delight.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken lasagna pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:
- Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the lasagna.
- Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread or breadsticks complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Wine Pairing: Pair with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the flavors of the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely. Allow the lasagna to cool completely, then wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.
What if I don’t have ricotta cheese? You can substitute cottage cheese or a mixture of cream cheese and Greek yogurt for a similar texture and flavor.