Lunch & Dinner

Chicken Lasagna Recipe – Delicious Meal Ideas

Name: Chicken Lasagna Recipe – Delicious Meal Ideas
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, or 2 lbs of cooked chicken breast, shredded; 9 lasagna noodles, boiled to al dente texture; 1/3 cup all-purpose flour; 1 Tbsp olive oil; 4 Tbsp unsalted butter; 2 1/2 cups chicken stock; 1 1/2 cups half and half; 5 oz fresh spinach, roughly chopped; 2 tsp sea salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 tsp nutmeg; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cups mozzarella cheese, approximately 12 oz, divided; 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

Irene Adkins April 14, 2025

Servings: 12 Total Time: 1 hr 25 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Before we dive into this delicious chicken lasagna recipe, let’s talk pairings. There’s something about a hefty, cheesy lasagna that calls for the right companions.

Firstly, a simple garden salad brings a fresh crunch that perfectly offsets the richness of the lasagna. Picture crisp romaine tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. You’ll instantly feel better about indulging in that gooey cheese.

To drink, consider a lightly chilled Chardonnay. The wine’s crisp acidity balances the savory goodness of the pasta, creating a harmonious experience on your palate. If you’re not into wine, iced herbal tea is a fantastic non-alcoholic choice.

Its refreshing taste complements the warmth of the lasagna without overwhelming your taste buds.

Let’s set the table and get ready for a culinary journey that combines flavors, textures, and an opportunity for bonding with family over a hearty meal.

Why This Recipe is a Winner

Chicken lasagna is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug. When I whip up a dish like this, it’s not just about the food; it’s about sharing joy and comfort.

The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauces, and cheesy goodness creates an experience that can turn any ordinary night into something special.

This recipe is versatile. You can make it ahead of time, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. Imagine pulling a dish out of the oven that fills your home with a delightful aroma, ready to be devoured by your loved ones.

That’s why this chicken lasagna has become a go-to in my kitchen.

I’ve crafted this recipe from years of experimenting with flavors and textures, making it simple yet rewarding.

My Ingredient

Now, let’s chat about the star players of this dish and how I choose my ingredients. I often rely on rotisserie chicken for convenience. It’s tender and packed with flavor. Choosing a quality rotisserie can make a significant difference, so I’m not shy about scouting for the best.

But if you have time, consider poaching your own chicken breast. The results can be even more succulent.

Next up, the lasagna noodles. I prefer the traditional kind, but I have used whole wheat or gluten-free noodles when I’m feeling adventurous or accommodating dietary needs.

The creamy spinach sauce is something I thoroughly enjoy. The vibrant green hue from the spinach not only adds color but also boosts nutrition. I dive into rich, versatile sauces, finding the right balance between creaminess and seasoning.

The addition of garlic and nutmeg in the sauce adds depth. That such a simple mix can elevate dish feels like pure magic to me.

And of course, there’s ricotta and mozzarella—who can resist? The ricotta brings a beautiful texture, while the mozzarella? Let’s just say, it’s basically the life of the lasagna party!

Ingredients List

Let’s gather what we need for this dish:

Chicken Lasagna Ingredients:

4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, or 2 lbs of cooked chicken breast, shredded
9 lasagna noodles, boiled to al dente texture

Spinach Cream Sauce:

1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 Tbsp olive oil
4 Tbsp unsalted butter
2 1/2 cups chicken stock
1 1/2 cups half and half (or a mix of equal parts heavy cream and milk)
5 oz fresh spinach, roughly chopped
2 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 tsp nutmeg

Ricotta Cheese Sauce:

15 oz ricotta cheese
1 large egg
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cups mozzarella cheese, approximately 12 oz, divided
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

How to Make Chicken Lasagna

Grab your apron and let’s dive into the cooking process. With these steps, you’ll create a masterpiece worth sharing!

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

If you’re using rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and shred the meat. Make sure it’s bite-size for easier layering. This step is a breeze and truly sets the stage for flavor.

Step 2: Cooking the Noodles

Boil a pot of salted water and add your lasagna noodles. Cook them until they’re al dente. This means they should still have a bit of bite to them. Drain and lay them flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking. Trust me; it saves a lot of hassle later on.

Step 3: Making the Spinach Cream Sauce

In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Gradually whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook it for a minute—this step avoids that raw flour taste.

Next, slowly whisk in the chicken stock, and then the half-and-half. Keep mixing until it looks smooth. Toss in the chopped spinach, sea salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Let it simmer until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Preparing the Ricotta Cheese Mixture

In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes. Mix until everything is well incorporated. This step brings a beautiful creaminess that balances the texture of the dish.

Step 5: Assembling the Lasagna

Let’s get layering! Start with a thin layer of chicken cream sauce at the bottom of your baking dish. Place three lasagna noodles on top, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, a third of the mozzarella, and a layer of the spinach cream sauce.

Repeat this layering process with another set of noodles, the rest of the ricotta mixture, half of the remaining mozzarella, and then finish with the last of the noodles, followed by the remaining spinach cream sauce.

Top it off with the rest of the mozzarella for that glorious cheesy top.

Step 6: Baking

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover your dish with aluminum foil—making sure it doesn’t touch the cheese. Bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the mozzarella turns a beautiful golden brown.

Step 7: Letting Cool

This part is crucial! Allow your lasagna to cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. It may be tough, but cutting into a hot lasagna typically leads to a messy situation.

Recipe Notes

Let’s break down each ingredient for a clearer view of their benefits and roles in the dish:

Chicken: A lean protein, ideal for keeping this meal satisfying without being overly heavy.
Lasagna Noodles: Critical for binding the layers together; they absorb flavors beautifully.
Spinach: Packed with vitamins A, C, and iron; it adds color as well as nutrition.
Cream Sauce: The silky texture melds the flavors together, providing moisture and richness.
Ricotta Cheese: Creamy and rich, it adds a lovely texture that contrasts beautifully with the other layers.
Cheeses: Mozzarella offers that spectacular stretch you expect, while Parmesan adds a sharp note enhancing overall flavor.

Recipe Variations

Loving this recipe but want to shake things up? Here are some variations:

Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for roasted vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Spicy Addition: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne in your ricotta mixture for some heat.
Pesto Twist: Substitute half of the spinach with a dollop of basil pesto for an exciting flavor twist.
Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free: Opt for whole wheat noodles or gluten-free alternatives as needed.

Conclusion

As I wrap up the recipe, it’s clear why chicken lasagna occupies a special place on our dinner table. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a gathering point, a conversation starter, and an opportunity to create memories.

Sharing great food while laughing with family and friends is a treasure in itself.

So, if you’re looking to impress or simply want a comforting dish for cozy nights in, give this chicken lasagna a shot. Adventure awaits in every layer. Now, let’s dig in! Bon appétit!

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Chicken Lasagna Recipe – Delicious Meal Ideas

Author: Irene Adkins Cuisine: Italian Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 30 mins Cook Time 45 mins Rest Time 10 mins Total Time 1 hr 25 mins

Servings: 12 Calories: 337 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Before we dive into this delicious chicken lasagna recipe, let’s talk pairings. There’s something about a hefty, cheesy lasagna that calls for the right companions.

To drink, consider a lightly chilled Chardonnay. The wine's crisp acidity balances the savory goodness of the pasta, creating a harmonious experience on your palate. If you’re not into wine, iced herbal tea is a fantastic non-alcoholic choice.