Creamy Chicken Lasagna Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dinner that combines the savory comfort of cheesy baked pasta with the tender goodness of chicken, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite Creamy Chicken Lasagna. Layers of rich white sauce, succulent chicken, and a trio of melty cheeses come together in a deeply satisfying, oven-baked masterpiece. This recipe is everything you crave on a chilly night or when you want to impress guests with something special—it’s pure comfort, and every bite sings with flavor.

Creamy Chicken Lasagna Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Creamy Chicken Lasagna is that it starts with simple ingredients, each playing an essential role in building flavor and making every forkful irresistibly creamy and decadent. Gather everything before you start, and you’re already halfway to the perfect pan of lasagna.

  • Lasagna noodles (9): The foundation of every great lasagna—boil until tender so they soak up the luscious sauce.
  • Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Brings a fruity, rich base for sautéing veggies and chicken.
  • Onion, diced (1 small): Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the filling.
  • Garlic, minced (3 cloves): Always brightens up the mix with that classic Italian aroma.
  • Cooked shredded chicken (3 cups): Rotisserie chicken is a delicious shortcut, or use your favorite leftover roast.
  • Baby spinach, optional (2 cups): For a pop of color and extra nutrition—feel free to leave it out or swap in another green!
  • Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): The base of a luxuriously creamy white sauce.
  • All-purpose flour (1/4 cup): Whisked with butter to thicken the sauce without lumps.
  • Whole milk (3 cups): Adds delicious creaminess; don’t be tempted by low-fat here.
  • Chicken broth (1 cup): Layers in a savory backbone without weighing the sauce down.
  • Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Instantly gives you herby, familiar lasagna flavor.
  • Salt (1/2 teaspoon): A little goes a long way toward bringing out all those other flavors.
  • Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds the right amount of gentle heat.
  • Parmesan cheese, grated (1/2 cup): Salty, nutty magic in every bite.
  • Mozzarella cheese, shredded (2 cups): Melts into that dreamy, golden, stretchy top layer.
  • Ricotta cheese (1 cup): Creamy dollops throughout ensure a delicate, velvety texture in every layer.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Lasagna

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions. Make sure not to overcook; you want them pliable but not mushy since they’ll continue to bake later. Drain and lay the noodles out on a baking sheet with a drizzle of olive oil in between to prevent sticking. This makes assembly super easy later on!

Step 2: Sauté the Flavor Base

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant—about a minute. This aromatic foundation sets the tone for the entire lasagna, so don’t rush this step!

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Filling

Stir the shredded chicken and spinach into the skillet with your onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the spinach just wilts and everything is nicely combined. Remove the skillet from the heat while you tackle the sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, now’s the time to add sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra layers of flavor.

Step 4: Make the Creamy White Sauce

Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a golden roux—this step ensures your sauce will be thick and perfectly smooth. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly. Keep cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5–7 minutes. Off the heat, stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and grated Parmesan. This sauce is the creamy star that brings every element of your Creamy Chicken Lasagna together.

Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna

Spread a thin layer of white sauce in the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to keep everything from sticking. Layer 3 noodles over the sauce, followed by half of the chicken mixture. Drop spoonfuls of ricotta on top, then spread on more white sauce and sprinkle generously with mozzarella. Repeat this layering process one more time: noodles, chicken, ricotta, sauce, and mozzarella. Top with the final 3 noodles and finish with the remaining sauce and mozzarella cheese. Each layer is a promise of creamy, cheesy perfection.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Cover the assembled lasagna tightly with foil and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes, trapping all that moisture inside for tender noodles. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes until the top is golden and beautifully bubbly. Let the lasagna rest for around 10 minutes before slicing—this patience pays off with perfect, picture-worthy slices that hold together beautifully.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Lasagna

Creamy Chicken Lasagna Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

For that final flourish, scatter fresh basil or chopped parsley over your Creamy Chicken Lasagna before serving. A light shower of extra Parmesan and a turn of cracked black pepper also elevates the flavors and adds visual appeal. If you want to impress, a few ribbons of lemon zest bring zing and contrast richness with freshness.

Side Dishes

Pair your hearty lasagna with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. Garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser, perfect for soaking up extra sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables—think broccoli, asparagus, or carrots—also make for a colorful and wholesome meal alongside this decadent main.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, cut the lasagna into tidy squares and stack them on individual plates with an artful drizzle of white sauce and a basil sprig on top. Or, serve Creamy Chicken Lasagna family-style, right from the bubbling dish, for that “gather round the table” feel. For something playful, bake individual servings in ramekins or mini loaf pans for a personal-sized treat that feels extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover any leftover Creamy Chicken Lasagna tightly with plastic wrap or transfer portions to airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, it stays delicious and moist for up to 3 days. I guarantee you’ll look forward to lunch the next day just thinking about it!

Freezing

You can freeze the whole pan or individual slices of Creamy Chicken Lasagna for up to two months. Wrap well with plastic and foil to avoid freezer burn. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, so the texture and flavors stay just as heavenly as freshly baked.

Reheating

Reheat leftover lasagna covered in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20–25 minutes. Individual slices can be warmed in the microwave in short intervals, covered to keep moisture in. If you notice the sauce has thickened a bit too much, add a splash of milk and cover before reheating to revive that irresistible creaminess.

FAQs

Can I make Creamy Chicken Lasagna ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the entire lasagna up to a day in advance, cover, and store in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven as directed. It’s a fantastic make-ahead dish for special occasions or busy weeknights.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a huge time-saver for Creamy Chicken Lasagna. Simply shred the meat and use it as directed for a juicy, flavorful shortcut. You can also use any leftover cooked chicken you have on hand.

Is there a way to make it vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, roasted cauliflower, or a medley of your favorite vegetables. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth, and you’ve got a creamy, dreamy vegetarian lasagna everyone will love.

How can I add extra flavor to Creamy Chicken Lasagna?

To boost the flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or a touch of fresh herbs like thyme or oregano to the chicken mixture. A drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of smoked paprika on top before baking can also take your lasagna to the next level.

What’s the best way to slice lasagna cleanly?

Letting the Creamy Chicken Lasagna rest for 10 minutes after baking makes slicing much easier. Use a sharp knife and a spatula for clean, tidy servings. Wiping the knife between cuts helps keep the layers distinct and beautiful on every plate.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving homey comfort and a dish that never fails to wow a table, this Creamy Chicken Lasagna belongs in your meal rotation. From the first cheesy forkful to the last swipe of sauce, it promises warmth, richness, and a whole lot of love. Don’t wait for a special occasion—gather your ingredients and treat yourself and your loved ones to this unforgettable, crowd-pleasing favorite tonight!

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Creamy Chicken Lasagna Recipe

Creamy Chicken Lasagna Recipe


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4.6 from 24 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

This Creamy Chicken Lasagna is a comforting and delicious twist on the classic Italian dish. Layers of lasagna noodles, tender shredded chicken, creamy white sauce, and gooey cheeses come together to create a satisfying meal the whole family will love.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 9 lasagna noodles
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 2 cups baby spinach (optional)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Cook lasagna noodles and set aside.
  2. Sauté onion and chicken: Sauté onion, garlic, chicken, and spinach.
  3. Make white sauce: Melt butter, whisk in flour, add milk and broth, cook until thickened. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and Parmesan.
  4. Assemble: Layer white sauce, noodles, chicken mixture, ricotta, mozzarella. Repeat layers. Finish with mozzarella.
  5. Bake: Cover and bake, then uncover and bake until golden. Rest before serving.

Notes

  • Enhance with sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes.
  • Can be assembled ahead and refrigerated overnight.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 510mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

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