Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce

Introduction

Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce is a comforting and decadent twist on the classic lasagna. Instead of the traditional red sauce, this recipe features a rich and creamy white sauce that pairs perfectly with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a blend of cheeses. This lasagna is a delightful dish for family dinners, special occasions, or when you simply crave a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying meal. The layers of pasta, chicken, and sauce come together to create a dish that’s both hearty and elegant.

Overview of the Recipe

This recipe involves several key steps: preparing the lasagna noodles, making a creamy white sauce, mixing the chicken filling, and assembling the lasagna layers. The white sauce, made from a simple roux and milk, is flavored with garlic, onions, and nutmeg, adding depth and richness to the dish. The chicken filling is combined with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and spinach, creating a creamy and flavorful layer within the lasagna. Once assembled, the lasagna is baked until the cheese is golden and bubbly, resulting in a dish that is as beautiful as it is delicious.

History and Origin

Lasagna, a classic Italian dish, traditionally features layers of pasta, meat, cheese, and tomato sauce. Over time, variations have emerged, including white sauce-based versions like this Creamy Chicken Lasagna. White sauces, or “Béchamel” sauces, have long been a staple in Italian cuisine, often used in lasagna to add creaminess and richness. This recipe is a fusion of these Italian traditions, offering a milder, creamier alternative to the robust tomato-based lasagnas. It has become a popular choice for those who enjoy the comfort of lasagna but prefer a lighter, creamier flavor profile.

Ingredients

9 lasagna noodles: The foundation of the dish, providing the structure for the layers.
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast: Adds protein and a savory element to the lasagna.
2 cups ricotta cheese: Creates a creamy, rich layer within the lasagna.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides a gooey, melty texture, perfect for the top and middle layers.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty flavor that complements the other cheeses.
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped: Introduces freshness and a bit of color to the dish.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a robust, aromatic flavor to the white sauce.
1 small onion, finely chopped: Enhances the depth of flavor in the white sauce.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing the garlic and onions, adding richness to the sauce.
4 cups milk: The base of the white sauce, providing creaminess.
4 tablespoons butter: Combined with flour to create the roux, thickening the sauce.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Used to thicken the white sauce.
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds warmth and a subtle nutty flavor to the white sauce.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning both the sauce and the chicken mixture.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside. Lay them flat on a baking sheet or parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the White Sauce

In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
Add 4 tablespoons of butter to the saucepan. Once melted, stir in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the mixture forms a smooth paste (roux).
Gradually whisk in 4 cups of milk, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens and is smooth. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Season the sauce with 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded chicken, 2 cups of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of chopped fresh spinach, and half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the prepared white sauce on the bottom.
Place three cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce, slightly overlapping them if necessary.
Spread half of the chicken and cheese mixture over the noodles, making sure to cover them evenly.
Top with another layer of three lasagna noodles and spread the remaining chicken mixture over these noodles.
Finish with a final layer of three lasagna noodles. Pour the remaining white sauce over the top, ensuring it covers the noodles completely.
Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the sauce, creating a cheesy topping.

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This allows the lasagna to cook evenly and the flavors to meld together.
After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve the Lasagna

Once baked, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps the lasagna set, making it easier to slice and serve.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Serving

Serve the creamy chicken lasagna hot, accompanied by a simple green salad or garlic bread. This dish is rich and flavorful, so lighter sides work well to balance the meal. It’s perfect for dinner parties, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress with a comforting and delicious dish.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Creamy chicken lasagna pairs well with a variety of sides:

Garlic Bread: The crispness of garlic bread contrasts nicely with the creamy lasagna.
Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the lasagna.
Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are excellent choices that add freshness and color to the meal.
Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Serve with sparkling water, iced tea, or a light lemonade to complement the richness of the dish.

Variations of the Recipe

Vegetarian Lasagna: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or additional spinach and other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
Seafood Lasagna: Substitute the chicken with cooked shrimp or crab meat for a seafood twist.
Spicy Chicken Lasagna: Add red pepper flakes to the white sauce or mix in some chopped jalapeños with the chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
Four-Cheese Lasagna: Increase the variety of cheeses by adding provolone or fontina to the mix for an even richer flavor.

Health Benefits

This creamy chicken lasagna offers a balanced meal with protein from the chicken, calcium from the cheese, and vitamins from the spinach. To make it healthier, consider using whole wheat lasagna noodles, low-fat cheese, or substituting part of the white sauce with a cauliflower-based sauce to reduce calories and increase vegetable content.

Notes

Make Ahead: You can assemble the lasagna a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Increase the baking time by about 10 minutes if baking from cold.
Freezing: This lasagna freezes well. Assemble the lasagna, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends based on your preference. Gruyère or Asiago can add a more intense flavor.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Yes, using a store-bought rotisserie chicken can save time and add extra flavor to the lasagna.

How do I prevent the lasagna noodles from sticking together?

After cooking the noodles, lay them flat on a baking sheet or parchment paper, or drizzle them with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Can I use fresh lasagna noodles?

Yes, fresh lasagna noodles can be used and typically do not need to be pre-cooked. Follow the package instructions for best results.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese or a mixture of cottage cheese and cream cheese can be used as a substitute for ricotta.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce is a delicious, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich layers of pasta, tender chicken, creamy white sauce, and melty cheese make it a standout meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this lasagna is sure to become a favorite in your household. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a truly satisfying meal that brings comfort and joy to the table