Chicken Lasagna Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Lasagna is a lighter, yet just as delicious, variation of the classic Italian dish. Instead of the traditional ground beef, this recipe features tender, juicy chicken, layered between sheets of pasta and a rich, creamy sauce. It’s the perfect comfort food, with all the cheesy goodness of lasagna, but with a fresh, flavorful twist. The layers of tender chicken, creamy béchamel sauce, and melted cheese make each bite an irresistible treat.

This dish is versatile enough to serve at family dinners, holiday gatherings, or even a weeknight meal. It’s a great way to elevate your lasagna game while still keeping things approachable and easy to prepare. Whether you’re a lasagna lover or a newcomer to this Italian classic, this Chicken Lasagna recipe will become a staple in your cooking repertoire. This guide will walk you through the steps of making Chicken Lasagna, offer tips for perfecting the recipe, and suggest fun variations to try out.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Lasagna

• Light yet Flavorful: Chicken Lasagna provides all the savory flavor you expect from lasagna, but with a lighter feel. The chicken adds a lean source of protein, while the creamy sauce and melted cheese balance everything perfectly.
• Perfect for a Crowd: Lasagna is the ideal dish to serve at gatherings, and Chicken Lasagna is no exception. It’s easy to make in large batches, making it perfect for feeding a family or a group of friends.
• Comfort Food with a Twist: If you’re tired of the classic beef lasagna, this chicken version offers a refreshing change while keeping the core elements of the dish intact.
• Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for later use. It’s an excellent choice for meal prepping or for preparing a meal in advance when you’re short on time.
• Customizable: Chicken Lasagna is easily customizable. You can add different vegetables, adjust the seasonings, or even experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 400-500 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-500 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 35-40g
• Protein: 30-35g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugar: 5-6g

Ingredients

For the Chicken Lasagna:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 12 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Béchamel Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to cool for a few minutes.

Once the chicken has cooled slightly, shred it using two forks or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Set aside while you prepare the other components of the lasagna.

2. Prepare the Lasagna Noodles

If you’re using regular lasagna noodles, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles and lay them flat on a baking sheet to prevent them from sticking together.

If you’re using no-boil noodles, you can skip this step, as they will soften during the baking process.

3. Make the Béchamel Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk constantly to form a roux (a thickening paste). Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the roux becomes slightly golden.

Slowly add the milk and chicken broth to the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to the consistency of heavy cream.

Season the sauce with garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings as necessary. Once the sauce is ready, remove it from the heat and set it aside.

4. Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, 1 cup of Parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic powder, basil, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. This will be the cheesy layer of your lasagna.

5. Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

To assemble the lasagna, start by spreading a thin layer of the béchamel sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce, overlapping them slightly. Then, add a layer of the shredded chicken, followed by a layer of the cheese mixture.

Top the cheese layer with more béchamel sauce, spreading it evenly over the noodles. Repeat the layers (noodles, chicken, cheese mixture, béchamel) until all the ingredients are used up. Make sure the final layer is topped with béchamel sauce and the remaining shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

6. Bake the Lasagna

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the lasagna for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let the lasagna cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

7. Serve and Garnish

Once the lasagna has cooled slightly, cut it into squares and serve. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and added freshness. Serve the lasagna with a side salad, garlic bread, or a vegetable of your choice.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Lasagna

• Shred the Chicken: Shredding the chicken ensures that it evenly distributes throughout the lasagna and helps it absorb the flavor of the sauce. You can also use a rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work well, using fresh basil and parsley can really elevate the flavors of the lasagna. Add fresh herbs to the cheese mixture and as a garnish.
• Let the Lasagna Rest: Allow the lasagna to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to help the layers set and make it easier to cut and serve.
• Use No-Boil Noodles for Convenience: If you’re short on time, using no-boil lasagna noodles can save you the step of pre-cooking the noodles. Just be sure to use plenty of sauce to ensure the noodles cook properly.
• Customize the Vegetables: Chicken Lasagna is very versatile, so feel free to add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the layers. These add color, texture, and nutritional value.

Variations of Chicken Lasagna

• Spinach and Chicken Lasagna: Add 2 cups of cooked spinach to the cheese mixture for added flavor and nutrition. You can also use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the lasagna.
• Pesto Chicken Lasagna: For a fresh, herbaceous twist, add 1/4 cup of basil pesto to the cheese mixture. This will infuse the lasagna with a delicious basil flavor and enhance the richness of the sauce.
• Spicy Chicken Lasagna: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the béchamel sauce or layer sliced jalapeños between the noodles for a bit of heat. This adds a spicy kick that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
• Buffalo Chicken Lasagna: Replace the béchamel sauce with a buffalo sauce-based mixture. Combine shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and layer it with mozzarella cheese and ricotta for a bold, spicy twist on traditional lasagna.
• Vegetarian Chicken Lasagna: Replace the chicken with a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. This is an excellent option for vegetarians or those looking to reduce meat consumption.

Storage and Shelf Life

Chicken Lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place a portion in the microwave or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, until heated through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the lasagna. Allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake it at 375°F (190°C) for 60-75 minutes, or until fully heated through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Chicken Lasagna

Pair Chicken Lasagna with these complementary side dishes for a complete meal:

• Garlic Bread: A classic side dish that goes perfectly with lasagna. The crispy, buttery bread is ideal for soaking up the rich sauce.
• Caesar Salad: A light and crunchy Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy lasagna.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts add a healthy and flavorful side to balance the richness of the lasagna.
• Steamed Green Beans: Tender green beans with a light lemon dressing make a simple and tasty side dish that complements the lasagna without overpowering it.

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Conclusion

Chicken Lasagna is a comforting and satisfying meal that brings all the richness of traditional lasagna but with a lighter, more flavorful twist. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, Chicken Lasagna is a dish that anyone can make and enjoy. Plus, with the ability to customize it to suit different tastes, you’ll never tire of this delicious classic. Enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness of Chicken Lasagna – it’s the perfect dish for any occasion!