Welcome to our comforting and hearty recipes section! Today, we’re sharing a delicious and creamy recipe for Chicken Alfredo Lasagna. This lasagna is layered with tender lasagna noodles, savory chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich Alfredo sauce, making it perfect for any family dinner or special occasion. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 12-15 lasagna noodles
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 10 oz fresh baby spinach
- 4 cups heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 4 cups mozzarella cheese, grated
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, minced, for serving (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lasagna Noodles
- Cook Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion, and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Spinach: Add the fresh baby spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add Parmesan: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer Ingredients: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the Alfredo sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top. Spread a layer of ricotta cheese over the noodles, followed by a layer of shredded chicken, some of the spinach Alfredo sauce, and a sprinkle of grated mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of noodles topped with the remaining sauce and mozzarella cheese.
- Top with Basil: Sprinkle the dried basil over the top layer of cheese.
Step 4: Bake the Lasagna
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and Continue Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Cool and Serve: Allow the lasagna to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with freshly minced parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your Chicken Alfredo Lasagna!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Noodles: To prevent the noodles from sticking together after cooking, lay them flat on a baking sheet or drizzle with a little olive oil.
- Cheese: For a richer flavor, use a combination of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheeses.
- Chicken: Rotisserie chicken works well for this recipe, but you can also use any cooked chicken breast or thigh meat.
- Spinach: If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding to the sauce.
Variations
Veggie Alfredo Lasagna
Replace the chicken with an assortment of sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini for a vegetarian option.
Seafood Alfredo Lasagna
Replace the chicken with cooked shrimp or crab meat for a seafood twist.
Pesto Alfredo Lasagna
Add 1/4 cup of basil pesto to the Alfredo sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Spicy Alfredo Lasagna
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce for a spicy kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap, cover with aluminum foil, and bake as directed.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze this lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled lasagna before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
What can I serve with this lasagna?
This lasagna pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
How can I make the lasagna healthier?
Use light cream or half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella cheeses. You can also add more vegetables and reduce the amount of cheese.
Chicken Alfredo Lasagna is a rich and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and layers of cheesy goodness, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious lasagna with your loved ones!
