Chicken Lasagna

Chicken Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. With layers of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and rich sauce, this dish is perfect for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or special occasions. Its delightful flavors and hearty texture make it a favorite that never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep work, you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time.
• Flavorful Layers: The combination of chicken, cheese, and herbs creates a rich flavor profile that everyone will adore.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—this lasagna tastes even better the next day!
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your lasagna with different vegetables or spices for a unique twist on a classic dish.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Chicken Lasagna, having the right tools can greatly enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot
• Baking dish (9×13 inches)
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and provides enough space for all the delicious layers.
• Mixing bowls: Ideal for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables and preparing your chicken efficiently.

Ingredients

This dinner is so comforting and hits the spot every time! It is definitely on repeat at my house!

For the Lasagna

• 1 box lasagna noodles (cooked according to the package)
• 6 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp dried parsley (for topping)
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 8 oz shredded parmesan cheese
• 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
• 5 cups cooked chicken (finely chopped; rotisserie chicken works well)

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion (diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup fresh basil (chopped)
• 5 oz fresh spinach (chopped)
• 1 cup chicken stock

For the Cheese Mixture

• 25 oz cottage cheese (pureed until smooth or Ricotta cheese)
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp dry parsley
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 8 oz parmesan cheese

How to Make Chicken Lasagna

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain them and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Chicken with Seasonings

Add finely chopped chicken to the pot along with kosher salt, black pepper, fresh basil, and chopped spinach. Stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine pureed cottage cheese (or Ricotta), egg, dry parsley, and kosher salt. Mix until smooth.

Step 5: Layer Your Lasagna

In a baking dish, start layering:
1. Spread a layer of cooked noodles at the bottom.
2. Add half of the chicken mixture over the noodles.
3. Spoon half of the cheese mixture on top.
4. Repeat layers once more.
5. Top with remaining noodles, heavy cream, mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese.

Step 6: Bake

Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Step 7: Let It Rest Before Serving

Allow your Chicken Lasagna to rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with dried parsley before serving.

Enjoy this creamy Chicken Lasagna as a hearty meal that satisfies cravings while being simple to prepare!

How to Serve Chicken Lasagna

Serving Chicken Lasagna is all about creating a warm and inviting meal experience. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors while providing a delightful dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons complement the richness of the lasagna.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add a refreshing contrast.

Add Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted baguette slices smothered in garlic butter are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Elevate traditional garlic bread by adding melted cheese on top for extra indulgence.

Finish with a Touch of Herbs

• Fresh Basil Garnish: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil adds vibrant color and enhances the flavor profile.
• Dried Parsley Sprinkling: For a simple touch, a dusting of dried parsley can elevate presentation without overwhelming the dish.

How to Perfect Chicken Lasagna

To achieve the best Chicken Lasagna, consider these essential tips that will ensure your dish is creamy, flavorful, and satisfying.

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: Opting for rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor without extra cooking.
• Layer Ingredients Carefully: Alternate layers of noodles, chicken mixture, and cheese evenly to ensure all portions are balanced.
• Allow to Rest Before Serving: Letting the lasagna sit for 10-15 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely for easier slicing.
• Incorporate Fresh Spinach: Adding fresh spinach not only boosts nutrition but also adds beautiful color to your lasagna.
• Experiment with Cheese Blends: Mixing different types of cheese can create unique flavors—consider adding gouda or fontina for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Lasagna

When serving Chicken Lasagna, pairing it with suitable side dishes can create an unforgettable meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection provide a nutritious complement.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a pop of color and balances the richness of the lasagna.
3. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette dressing refreshes the palate between bites of hearty lasagna.
4. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses offers variety and excitement to your table setting.
5. Italian Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks served warm can be used for dipping into marinara or sauce left on your plate.
6. Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles sautéed in olive oil as a fresh alternative.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Lasagna can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the cooking of noodles: Not cooking the lasagna noodles properly can lead to a soggy or undercooked dish. Always follow package instructions for the best results.
• Overloading with cheese: While cheese is delicious, too much can overwhelm the flavors. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced taste.
• Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoning can make your chicken lasagna bland. Be sure to taste and adjust seasonings as you go.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect how well your lasagna cooks. Let ingredients like chicken and cheeses come to room temperature before assembling.
• Layering incorrectly: Proper layering is key for even cooking and flavor distribution. Follow the recommended order of noodles, sauce, chicken, and cheese.

Refrigerator Storage

• Item: Store in an airtight container.
• Item: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

Freezing Chicken Lasagna

• Item: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Item: Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Chicken Lasagna

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake for about 30 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe dish for 5-7 minutes, checking regularly.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, cover, and cook until warmed through, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other meats in Chicken Lasagna?

You can easily substitute with turkey or lamb if you prefer something different. Both options will still deliver great flavor.

What type of cheese is best for Chicken Lasagna?

A blend of mozzarella and parmesan works wonderfully. You can also try using ricotta or cottage cheese for creaminess.

Can I make Chicken Lasagna ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

How do I know when Chicken Lasagna is done?

Look for bubbling edges and a golden-brown top. A food thermometer should read at least 165°F (74°C) in the center.

Conclusion

This Chicken Lasagna recipe is a delightful combination of flavors that warms your heart and soul. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings and offers plenty of room for customization with vegetables or herbs. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!