CREAMY CHICKEN LASAGNA

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s both creamy and satisfying, our Creamy Chicken Lasagna is the perfect choice. This delightful twist on the classic lasagna features tender chicken layered with pasta and a rich, cheesy spinach sauce. It’s just as delicious reheated, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or a cozy family dinner. Once you try it, you’ll be eager to share the recipe with friends and family!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Chicken Lasagna is a wonderful way to enjoy comfort food with a twist. The creamy bechamel sauce infused with spinach adds a lovely depth of flavor, while the ricotta cheese mixture provides a delightful richness. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or turkey, especially after a big holiday meal.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot for cooking noodles
• Large saucepan or pot for sauce
• Whisk
• Large bowl
• 9×13 casserole dish
• Foil and toothpicks

Ingredients

Chicken Lasagna Ingredients:

• 9 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
• 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked from 2 lbs chicken breast

Spinach Cream Sauce:

• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4 Tbsp 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 oz fresh spinach, coarsely chopped
• 2 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

Ricotta Cheese Sauce:

• 15 oz ricotta
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup parsley
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
• 3 cups mozzarella cheese, 12 oz by weight, divided (reserve 1 cup for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook Noodles & Prep:

• Preheat the oven to 375˚F. Cook pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the hot water and add cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent noodles from sticking together. Shred 4 cups of chicken.

Make the Bechamel (Spinach Sauce):

• Place a pot or large saucepan over medium heat, add 1 Tbsp olive oil, and sauté onions for 3-4 minutes or until softened. Add 4 Tbsp butter and whisk in 1/3 cup flour. Continue whisking for 3 minutes or until the flour mixture is golden.
• Add 2 1/2 cups chicken broth, 1 1/2 cups half and half, 2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Whisk until smooth and simmer for 5 minutes until thickened to a light gravy consistency.
• Add minced garlic and chopped spinach, stir to combine, then remove from heat.

Make the Ricotta Cheese Sauce:

• In a large bowl, whisk together ricotta, egg, 2 cups mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup parmesan, and 1/4 cup parsley.

To Assemble Chicken Lasagna:

• Add a little bechamel sauce to the bottom of a 9×13 casserole dish, add 3 noodles, 1/2 of the ricotta sauce, 1/2 of the shredded chicken, then ladle 1/3 of the spinach sauce over the chicken.
• Add 3 more noodles, the remaining ricotta cheese, remaining shredded chicken, and another 1/3 of the spinach sauce.
• Top with the last 3 noodles, the remaining 1/3 of the sauce, and sprinkle on the reserved 1 cup of cheese.
• Cover and Bake: Arrange 10-12 toothpicks over the top to keep the foil from touching the cheese, then cover with a large sheet of foil. Bake on the center rack in a preheated oven at 375˚F for 45 minutes, then uncover and broil for 2-3 minutes to brown the cheese. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes uncovered before slicing.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the lasagna noodles are cooked al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
• Allow the lasagna to rest after baking; this will make slicing easier and help the layers set.
• Use fresh spinach for the best flavor, but frozen spinach can be a convenient substitute—just be sure to thaw and drain it well.

Additional Tips or Variations

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spinach sauce.
• Swap out chicken for turkey if you need to use up Thanksgiving leftovers.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Note: Nutritional information will vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I make this lasagna ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the lasagna, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to increase the baking time slightly if it’s cold from the fridge.
• How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• Can I freeze this lasagna? Absolutely! Assemble the lasagna, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Conclusion

If you’re ready to try a lasagna that’s a little different but equally comforting, this Creamy Chicken Lasagna is just the recipe you need. It’s perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings, and we’re sure it’ll become a new favorite in your home. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your delicious results and any personal twists you make along the way!