There’s nothing quite like gathering around the table for a comforting, cheesy casserole, and this Creamy Chicken Lasagna is truly something special! Imagine layer after layer of tender chicken, melty mozzarella, a velvety homemade white sauce, and that irresistible golden crust on top. Whether you’re looking to shake up your weeknight dinner routine or wow a crowd at your next get-together, Creamy Chicken Lasagna delivers indulgent flavor and cozy vibes in every bite. This is a dish so satisfying it might just become your family’s most requested favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Creamy Chicken Lasagna lies in a handful of straightforward ingredients that, together, work magic. From the tender chicken to the gently seasoned creamy sauce, every component plays its part in creating that dreamy, fork-twirling bite.
- Lasagna noodles (9 sheets): Make sure they’re cooked just until al dente so they hold up perfectly when layered.
- Cooked and shredded chicken breast (3 cups): Rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut, but any cooked chicken works beautifully.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds flavor and helps the onions and garlic release their aroma in the pan.
- Small onion, finely chopped (1): Gives the sauce subtle sweetness and depth right from the start.
- Garlic, minced (3 cloves): Don’t skip this—garlic brings irresistible richness to the sauce.
- All-purpose flour (1/4 cup): The secret to a thick, creamy sauce that coats every layer.
- Whole milk (3 cups): For that luscious, silky consistency in the white sauce.
- Chicken broth (1 cup): Adds savory flavor and balances out the creaminess of the milk.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for bringing all the flavors together—taste as you go.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a gentle kick without overwhelming the creamy sauce.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A convenient blend that delivers those classic herby lasagna notes.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Spice lovers will appreciate a little heat here, but it’s totally optional.
- Ricotta cheese (1 1/2 cups): The creamy heart of every layer—smooth and mild with a touch of tang.
- Egg (1): Helps bind the ricotta, making those luscious layers stay put.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (3 cups): For all that bubbling, stretchy, golden cheese on top and throughout.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup): The final, savory flourish that crisps up beautifully under the broiler.
- Fresh spinach (2 cups, optional): Adds a pop of color and a boost of nutrients—plus, it tucks in perfectly between layers.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Lasagna
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Noodles
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), and cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions until just al dente. Drain and lay them out on a baking sheet or towel so they don’t stick together. This step sets the stage for a lasagna that slices beautifully and has the perfect bite.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics for the Sauce
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and let it cook until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Now, add your minced garlic and stir for another minute—the smell will let you know when it’s ready! This aromatic base infuses flavor into every spoonful of sauce.
Step 3: Build the Creamy White Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over your onions and garlic, stirring well to coat everything. Let it cook for about a minute (this gets rid of the raw flour flavor), then slowly whisk in the milk and chicken broth. You want a smooth blend, so keep whisking until there are no lumps. Stir in the salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens to a scoopable consistency that will drape luxuriously over each layer.
Step 4: Mix the Ricotta Layer
In a bowl, combine your ricotta cheese and egg. Give it a good stir until fully blended—this creamy mixture adds richness and helps the layers hold their shape once baked. If you’d like, season with a little pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor.
Step 5: Assemble the Creamy Chicken Lasagna
This is where the dish truly comes together! Spread a few spoonfuls of the cream sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Layer 3 noodles lengthwise, overlapping slightly. Top with a third of the shredded chicken, some spinach (if using), a third of the ricotta mixture, 1 cup of mozzarella, and a generous ladle of sauce. Repeat the layers two more times, ending with all remaining cream sauce, the rest of the mozzarella, and a final flurry of Parmesan on top.
Step 6: Bake and Rest
Cover the baking dish with foil—this helps everything cook evenly and keeps the top from browning too quickly. Bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. Let your Creamy Chicken Lasagna rest for at least 10 minutes out of the oven. This short wait makes it much easier to slice and serve that perfect, cafe-worthy piece.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Lasagna
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil instantly brightens up the creamy layers and adds a pop of color. A light dusting of extra Parmesan just before serving is never a bad idea either! If you love a little zip, a pinch of red pepper flakes makes a simple, eye-catching finish.
Side Dishes
Creamy Chicken Lasagna is hearty enough to stand alone, but fresh sides can turn it into a full feast. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness, while garlicky steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus are always welcome. And of course, there’s no shame in mopping up that creamy sauce with a slice of warm, crusty bread!
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, try assembling the lasagna in individual ramekins for cute, personal portions. Or, after baking, cut the lasagna into bite-sized squares and secure them with toothpicks for a show-stopping appetizer. If you’re serving a crowd buffet-style, set up a topping bar with chopped herbs, extra cheese, and crushed red pepper so guests can personalize their slice.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Feel free to store any leftover Creamy Chicken Lasagna covered in the baking dish or in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 4 days, and the flavors often get even better as they mingle overnight!
Freezing
This recipe is a lifesaver when it comes to freezing. Assemble the lasagna right up to the point of baking, then cover tightly with both plastic wrap and foil. Label and freeze for up to 3 months. When a craving strikes, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as usual—just add an extra 10 to 15 minutes if cooking straight from chilled.
Reheating
To reheat, place individual slices (or the whole dish) in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil, until thoroughly warmed through. Microwave works for single servings, but the oven brings back that just-baked texture and golden top. Splash a little milk or broth over the top before reheating to keep it extra creamy.
FAQs
Can I make Creamy Chicken Lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can fully assemble the lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. It’s a fantastic way to simplify your day when hosting or planning busy weeknights.
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is not only convenient but packs in extra flavor. Just shred or chop the meat and you’re set—no extra cooking required.
Is there a substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you’re not a fan of ricotta or want a slightly lighter option, cottage cheese works beautifully. Just drain any excess liquid before mixing with the egg for the best texture.
Can I add more vegetables to Creamy Chicken Lasagna?
Definitely! Mushrooms, sautéed zucchini, or roasted red peppers add even more color and nutrition to the layers. Be sure to cook veggies first to prevent excess moisture in the final dish.
How do I keep my lasagna from being runny?
The trick is to simmer your sauce until thickened and allow the lasagna to rest after baking. Both steps ensure beautiful slices that hold together, instead of turning into a creamy puddle on your plate.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to add a crowd-pleasing comfort food to your recipe box, Creamy Chicken Lasagna is truly a game changer. It’s indulgent, delicious, and sure to make memories around the dinner table. Give it a try this week—you’ll be amazed at how everyone comes running when they hear what’s for dinner!
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Creamy Chicken Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of a creamy chicken lasagna, a delicious twist on the classic Italian dish. Layers of tender chicken, rich cheeses, and a flavorful cream sauce come together to create a satisfying meal for the whole family.
Ingredients
LASAGNA:
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
- 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
CREAM SAUCE:
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
CHEESE MIXTURE:
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
EXTRAS:
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion until translucent. Add garlic and cook briefly.
- Make the sauce: Stir in flour, then gradually whisk in milk and broth. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until thickened.
- Prepare the cheese mixture: Combine ricotta and egg in a bowl.
- Layer: Spread a bit of sauce in a baking dish. Layer noodles, chicken, spinach, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and sauce. Repeat twice, ending with sauce and cheeses.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake until golden, about 15–20 minutes.
- Rest and serve: Let the lasagna sit for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if preferred.
- Add mushrooms or sautéed zucchini for extra vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
