Indulge in the rich layers of this White Cheese Chicken Lasagna—a decadent twist on the classic Italian favorite. The creamy white sauce made with mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta creates an irresistible base for tender chicken and spinach, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a comforting and satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 packages (10 ounces each) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook lasagna noodles until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in flour and salt; cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Stir in 2 cups mozzarella, 1/2 cup Parmesan, basil, oregano, and pepper. Remove from heat.
- Spread 1/3 of the sauce in the prepared dish. Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread 1/2 the ricotta, 1/3 of the spinach, 1/2 the chicken, and 1/3 of the mozzarella cheese over the noodles.
- Repeat layers, ending with noodles, sauce, and remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes or until bubbly and golden. Let cool slightly before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Kcal: 485 kcal per serving | Servings: 8 servings
White Cheese Chicken Lasagna: A Comfort Food Classic with a Twist
This White Cheese Chicken Lasagna is a luxurious and creamy spin on the classic Italian dish. By swapping out the traditional marinara sauce for a rich white béchamel sauce, this recipe offers a fresh, indulgent take that’s perfect for any occasion. The layers of tender lasagna noodles, shredded chicken, earthy spinach, and gooey melted cheese come together in a dish that’s as comforting as it is satisfying.
What Sets This Recipe Apart?
- Flavorful White Sauce: A homemade béchamel enriched with mozzarella and Parmesan adds a creamy depth you won’t find in traditional lasagna recipes.
- Protein-Packed Chicken: Shredded chicken brings a heartiness to the dish, making it a complete and filling meal.
- Three Cheeses: The combination of mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta ensures a rich and velvety texture in every bite.
- Spinach: This not only boosts the nutritional value but also balances the richness of the sauce with its light, fresh flavor.
A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion
White Cheese Chicken Lasagna is a versatile recipe that works for everything from cozy weeknight dinners to special celebrations. Its creamy, cheesy layers make it universally appealing, while its elegant presentation means it’s suitable for more formal gatherings as well.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and bake it fresh when needed.
- Freezer-Friendly: Assemble, freeze, and bake straight from frozen—ideal for busy schedules.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Great for potlucks, dinner parties, or feeding a hungry family.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Spinach: If you prefer fresh over frozen, sauté it briefly to remove excess moisture before layering.
- Enhance the Sauce: For added flavor, consider incorporating a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of white wine into the béchamel sauce.
- Let It Rest: After baking, allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or roasted garlic can add an extra layer of flavor.
- Cheese Quality Matters: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best results, as it melts and integrates better into the sauce.
Suggested Side Dishes
- Garlic Knots: Buttery and garlicky, these are perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce.
- Simple Arugula Salad: Light and peppery, this adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the lasagna.
- Roasted Broccoli or Cauliflower: Adds a crispy, caramelized texture that pairs well with the creamy dish.
Serving and Storing
- Serving Tips: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat for spice lovers.
- Storage: Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
- Freezing Instructions: Assemble the lasagna in a disposable foil pan for easy storage. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When ready to serve, bake directly from frozen, adding about 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.
Health and Nutrition
This dish can be easily customized for dietary preferences:
- Lower-Calorie Version: Use low-fat cheeses and skim milk in the sauce.
- Gluten-Free: Replace regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free versions.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a hearty meatless variation.
Why Readers Will Love It
White Cheese Chicken Lasagna is the epitome of comfort food, offering layers of creamy, cheesy goodness that feels both familiar and exciting. Whether your audience craves indulgent dinners, easy make-ahead meals, or dishes that can impress at gatherings, this recipe is sure to check all the boxes.
The Role of Cheese in This Recipe
Cheese is the star ingredient in White Cheese Chicken Lasagna, providing richness, creaminess, and depth to the dish. Here’s how each type of cheese contributes:
- Mozzarella: Known for its meltability, mozzarella creates the gooey, stretchy texture that makes each bite irresistible. Use whole-milk mozzarella for extra creaminess.
- Parmesan: This hard cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor and a touch of umami that balances the richness of the white sauce.
- Ricotta: Creamy and slightly sweet, ricotta serves as the perfect binder for the chicken and spinach layers. For a lighter option, use part-skim ricotta.
Exploring the Ingredients
Each ingredient in this recipe is thoughtfully chosen to enhance the flavor and texture:
- Chicken Broth: Adds depth to the white sauce. Homemade broth will intensify the flavor, but store-bought works just as well.
- All-Purpose Flour: Used to thicken the béchamel sauce, creating a silky base for the cheese.
- Spinach: Frozen spinach is a convenient choice, but fresh spinach can elevate the dish. Just remember to sauté and drain fresh spinach to remove excess moisture.
- Herbs and Spices: Basil, oregano, and parsley lend an Italian-inspired aroma, while black pepper adds a subtle kick.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
- Pre-Cooked Chicken: Save time by using a store-bought rotisserie chicken or leftover roast chicken.
- No-Boil Noodles: Opt for no-boil lasagna noodles to cut down on prep time. Just ensure you use enough sauce to keep the noodles moist while baking.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Dietary Modifications
White Cheese Chicken Lasagna is easily customizable for different dietary needs:
- Keto-Friendly: Swap the lasagna noodles with thin slices of zucchini or eggplant.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and substitute the flour in the sauce with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch.
- Dairy-Free: Replace the cheeses with plant-based alternatives, and use almond or oat milk in the sauce.
Make It a Culinary Experience
Invite readers to experiment with making this recipe a collaborative or family activity:
- Kids in the Kitchen: Let children help layer the lasagna. It’s a fun and hands-on way to get them involved in cooking.
- Dinner Parties: Turn the dish into a show-stopping main course at your next gathering. Set up a “build-your-own-lasagna” station with different fillings and toppings.
- Leftover Creations: Suggest transforming leftovers into unique meals, such as layering them into wraps or reheating them in a skillet with extra cheese for a crispy bottom.
Fun Facts About Lasagna
- Historical Roots: Lasagna is believed to have originated in ancient Greece, with the word “laganon” describing flat dough sheets cut into strips. Over time, the recipe evolved into the layered masterpiece we know today.
- Regional Variations: Traditional lasagna from Emilia-Romagna in Italy features a green pasta made with spinach and layers of meat ragu, béchamel, and Parmesan.
- Popularity in the U.S.: Italian immigrants brought lasagna to America, where it quickly became a beloved comfort food. Variations like White Cheese Chicken Lasagna showcase how recipes can adapt to modern tastes.
Conclusion
White Cheese Chicken Lasagna is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort, flavor, and versatility. With its creamy white sauce, tender chicken, and nutrient-packed spinach, this dish combines indulgence with nourishment in every bite. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, it adapts effortlessly to suit various occasions and dietary needs.
Whether you’re an experienced cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is approachable and rewarding, offering endless possibilities for customization and creativity. Its rich layers and hearty flavors make it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.
Invite your readers to try it out, share their own twists, and experience the joy of creating a dish that brings people together around the table. With White Cheese Chicken Lasagna, every meal feels like a comforting embrace of warmth and flavor!