When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the rich, satisfying layers of lasagna. This beloved Italian classic has traveled the globe, picking up regional twists and variations along the way. In the United States, the traditional beef or pork lasagna often gives way to creative spins, and one of the most delicious is Creamy Chicken Lasagna.
This dish replaces the hearty red sauce with a luscious béchamel or Alfredo sauce, combining tender chicken, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella into a meal that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. Perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress at a gathering, this lasagna is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
Here’s what you need to create this creamy, dreamy chicken lasagna:
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente: The foundation of your layers, these noodles should be firm enough to hold their shape.
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil: For sautéing the onion and garlic.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds a sweet, aromatic base to the dish.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the chicken with a robust, savory flavor.
- 1 1/2 pounds of chicken breast, cooked and shredded: The star protein, tender and juicy.
- 2 1/2 cups of ricotta cheese: Provides a creamy, rich layer in the lasagna.
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the creaminess.
- 1 large egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture.
- 3 cups of mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully, creating that gooey, cheesy goodness.
- 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped: Brings a bright, fresh flavor to balance the richness.
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley leaves, chopped: Adds a touch of herbaceous freshness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to bring out the flavors.
- 3 cups of béchamel sauce or Alfredo sauce: The creamy component that replaces traditional tomato sauce.
- 1 teaspoon of nutmeg (optional): Adds a subtle warmth to the béchamel, enhancing the overall flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting Your Creamy Chicken Lasagna
Let’s get started on creating this comforting and indulgent dish.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C): Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it. This ensures your lasagna won’t stick to the dish and will come out easily when it’s ready to serve.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Sauté the onion and garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until they become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This forms the flavorful base for your chicken.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
- Add the chicken: Stir the pre-cooked shredded chicken into the skillet with the sautéed onion and garlic. Warm the mixture through, then set it aside.
Step 4: Mix the Ricotta Layer
- Combine the ricotta mixture: In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, the egg, chopped basil, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir until well combined. This mixture will create the creamy, flavorful layers in your lasagna.
Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna
- Start layering: Spread a thin layer of béchamel or Alfredo sauce over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This prevents the noodles from sticking and adds extra creaminess.
- First layer: Place 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then top with half of the chicken mixture. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the chicken, followed by a third of the remaining béchamel sauce.
- Second layer: Repeat the process with another layer of noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, the remaining chicken, another cup of mozzarella, and another third of the béchamel sauce.
Step 6: Final Layer and Baking
- Top it off: Lay down the final 3 noodles. Spread the remaining béchamel sauce over the top, then sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese. If you’re using nutmeg, sprinkle it lightly over the top layer.
- Cover and bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together while the cheese melts to perfection.
- Uncover and finish baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. This gives the lasagna that irresistible, cheesy crust.
Step 7: Let It Rest and Serve
- Cool slightly: Once baked, let the lasagna stand for about 10 minutes before cutting into it. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve clean slices.
- Serve: Cut into squares and serve hot, enjoying every creamy, cheesy, and savory bite.
Variations & Tips: Customize Your Lasagna
This Creamy Chicken Lasagna is delicious as is, but here are some ideas to make it your own:
Cheese Variations
- Try different cheeses: For a unique twist, swap out the mozzarella for smoked provolone or Gruyère. Smoked provolone adds a rich, smoky flavor, while Gruyère brings a nutty warmth that complements the creamy sauce.
Vegetarian Option
- Replace chicken with vegetables: For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. These veggies will absorb the flavors of the sauce while adding their own unique tastes and textures.
Homemade Béchamel
- Make your own sauce: If you enjoy traditional cooking techniques, try making your own béchamel sauce. Infuse it with a bay leaf and clove for added depth. For convenience, a quality store-bought Alfredo sauce works beautifully too.
Herb Variations
- Experiment with fresh herbs: Don’t be afraid to play with the herbs. Fresh oregano or thyme can be a great addition to the ricotta mixture, bringing even more brightness to the creamy layers.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Your Lasagna
This Creamy Chicken Lasagna is hearty and rich, so it pairs wonderfully with lighter sides that balance the meal:
Crisp Green Salad
- Light and refreshing: Serve the lasagna with a simple green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing cuts through the richness of the lasagna, providing a refreshing contrast.
Steamed Vegetables
- Healthy and vibrant: A medley of steamed vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and green beans adds color, texture, and a healthy balance to your plate.
Garlic Bread or Crusty Baguette
- Indulgent and satisfying: For those who want to indulge a little more, serve garlic bread or a crusty baguette on the side. It’s perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Chicken Lasagna is a delightful twist on the traditional lasagna, offering a rich and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a special family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress with its layers of tender chicken, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, all enveloped in a luscious béchamel sauce.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to enjoy a dish that brings the comforting flavors of Italy to your table with a uniquely American twist. Buon appetito!
Creamy Chicken Lasagna
Creamy Chicken Lasagna is a comforting twist on the classic Italian dish, featuring tender chicken, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella layered with a luscious béchamel or Alfredo sauce. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a rich and indulgent meal that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
- For the Lasagna:
- 9 lasagna noodles cooked al dente
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 1/2 lbs chicken breast cooked and shredded
- 2 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese divided
- 1 large egg
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups béchamel or Alfredo sauce
- 1 tsp nutmeg optional
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture: Add the shredded chicken to the skillet with the sautéed onion and garlic. Warm through and set aside.
- Mix the Ricotta Layer: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped basil, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper, and stir until well combined.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of béchamel or Alfredo sauce over the bottom of the baking dish. Lay down 3 lasagna noodles. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, top with half of the chicken mixture, then sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the chicken. Pour a third of the remaining sauce over the cheese. Repeat for the second layer.
- Final Layer and Baking: Place the last 3 noodles on top. Spread the remaining sauce, sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using). Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Uncover and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let It Rest and Serve: Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before cutting into it to set the layers. Serve hot.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. For extra flavor, try smoked provolone or Gruyère instead of mozzarella.
Nutrition
Calories: 550kcal
Love this recipe?Follow us at @thenandnowspace for more