Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna

There’s something special about a dish that combines the warmth of comfort food with the satisfaction of a well-balanced meal. Our Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna does just that. Imagine tender chicken and nutritious broccoli nestled between layers of creamy, cheesy goodness. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings joy to every bite. Pair it with a Caesar salad and garlic bread, and you’ve got a delightful spread that’s perfect for any time of the year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. It’s simple to make, reheats beautifully, and can stretch over several meals. Whether you’re using leftover roast chicken, store-bought rotisserie chicken, or even leftover turkey, this Chicken Alfredo Lasagna adapts effortlessly. The homemade Alfredo-style sauce elevates this dish with its rich, creamy flavor, making it irresistibly delicious.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot
• Medium skillet
• Saucepan
• 9″x13″ baking dish
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon
• Cooking spray or oil for greasing

Ingredients

• 9 lasagna noodles
• 4 boneless chicken breasts, cut into small cubes
• 12 oz. bag of frozen broccoli, thawed
• 8 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1/4 tsp. plus 1 tbsp. salt
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups full-fat milk
• 1 tsp. dried basil
• 2 tsp. olive oil
• 5 tbsp. butter
• 5 tsp. flour

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Boil a large pot of water, add a pinch of salt, and cook the lasagna noodles for 7-8 minutes until tender. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 3: In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until fully cooked. Then, add the broccoli, onion, and garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in the basil, salt, Parmesan cheese, and 1/4 cup of mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Combine the chicken mixture with the sauce and mix well.

Step 6: Lightly grease a 9″x13″ baking dish. Layer the bottom of the dish with noodles, followed by a generous layer of the chicken and sauce mixture. Sprinkle with a quarter of the remaining mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with noodles and any remaining sauce. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling.

Tips for Success

• Thaw the frozen broccoli completely and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture in the lasagna.
• For a richer sauce, you can substitute half of the milk with heavy cream.
• Let the lasagna rest for a few minutes after baking to make slicing easier.

Additional Tips or Variations

• Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for a subtle warmth.
• For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with mushrooms or spinach.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Each serving of Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna is packed with protein from the chicken and cheese, and provides a good amount of fiber and vitamins from the broccoli. It’s a hearty meal that satisfies both taste and nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the lasagna a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving.

Q: Can I freeze the lasagna?
A: Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in foil before baking and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Q: What can I serve with this lasagna?
A: A fresh Caesar salad and warm garlic bread make perfect companions to this dish.

Conclusion

Our Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna is more than just a comforting meal; it’s a delightful culinary experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. We invite you to try this recipe and share your experiences with us. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy!