Introduction
Indulge in the comforting flavors of White Cheese Chicken Lasagna, a creamy and cheesy twist on the classic Italian dish. This recipe combines tender chicken, rich cheeses, and flavorful herbs to create a hearty and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Why Make This Recipe
White Cheese Chicken Lasagna is a great way to switch up your typical lasagna routine. The combination of creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and savory Parmesan cheese, along with juicy chicken and spinach, creates a delicious and filling dish that is perfect for gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.
How to Make White Cheese Chicken Lasagna
Ingredients:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- ½ cup butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups cubed, cooked chicken meat
- 2 (10 ounce) packages frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions, then drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then sauté onion and garlic until tender.
- Whisk in flour until lightly browned, then gradually stir in chicken broth, milk, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add 2 cups mozzarella and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted. Season with basil, oregano, and black pepper.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, start layering with sauce, noodles, ricotta, chicken, and repeat.
- Top the lasagna with remaining sauce, spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, and parsley.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes until bubbly and golden.
How to Serve White Cheese Chicken Lasagna
Serve slices of this delicious lasagna warm, accompanied by a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs well with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea.
How to Store White Cheese Chicken Lasagna
Store any leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make White Cheese Chicken Lasagna
- Make sure to thoroughly drain the spinach to avoid excess moisture in the lasagna.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy shortcut.
- Allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to help it set.
Variation
For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
FAQs
- Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen? Yes, you can use fresh spinach, just be sure to blanch it before adding to the lasagna.
- Can I assemble the lasagna ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.
- Can I freeze White Cheese Chicken Lasagna? Yes, you can freeze the lasagna before or after baking. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.