Delightful Delicacy: Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna Recipe
Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a twist on the classic Italian favorite – Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna. This delectable dish combines layers of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy béchamel sauce, all nestled between sheets of lasagna noodles and baked to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or craving a comforting meal to warm your soul, this recipe is sure to impress. Join us as we explore the art of creating a dish that marries the flavors of Italy with the wholesome goodness of chicken and broccoli.
Ingredients:
- 6 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of nutmeg
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 package frozen broccoli, thawed and drained
- 1/2 cup carrots, shredded
- Lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a small bowl, beat the eggs. Gradually add a ladleful of the hot sauce to the beaten eggs, stirring constantly to temper them. Then, pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan, stirring continuously.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper. Remove the sauce from the heat and set aside.
- In a separate skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the diced chicken, thawed broccoli, and shredded carrots to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is heated through. Remove from heat.
- To assemble the lasagna, spread a thin layer of the sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with a layer of cooked lasagna noodles.
- Spoon half of the chicken and broccoli mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of sauce. Repeat the layers, ending with a final layer of sauce on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the lasagna is bubbly and heated through.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top, if desired. Return the lasagna to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For added flavor, you can season the chicken with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or onion powder before cooking.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables in the lasagna to your liking. You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Substitute whole wheat or gluten-free lasagna noodles for a healthier alternative.
- If you prefer a meatless version, you can omit the chicken and add extra vegetables or tofu for protein.
- To make the dish spicier, add crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the sauce.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Replace the flour with almond flour or coconut flour to thicken the sauce and make it keto-friendly.
- Use heavy cream or unsweetened almond milk instead of regular milk for a lower-carb option.
- Substitute the lasagna noodles with thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant for a low-carb alternative.
- Increase the amount of chicken and vegetables and reduce the amount of sauce to lower the carb content further.
In conclusion, Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. With its creamy béchamel sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables, it’s a comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a special dinner or enjoying it as a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe is a winner. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
- Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience. Simply dice the chicken and add it to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Can I make the lasagna ahead of time and bake it later?
- Yes, you can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
- Can I freeze leftover lasagna?
- Absolutely! Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then cut it into individual portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months, then thaw and reheat before serving.
- Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
- Yes, you can use fresh broccoli florets instead of frozen. Simply steam or blanch the broccoli until tender before adding it to the skillet with the chicken.
- Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?
- While Parmesan cheese adds a rich and nutty flavor to the lasagna, you can substitute it with other cheeses such as mozzarella, cheddar, or Gruyere if preferred.
- Can I make a vegetarian version of this lasagna?
- Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make a vegetarian-friendly version of the lasagna. You can also add extra vegetables such as mushrooms or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
