For a cozy, indulgent dinner, there’s nothing quite like Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce. This twist on the classic lasagna features tender chicken layered with creamy béchamel sauce, lasagna noodles, and plenty of gooey cheese. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or special occasion, this rich and flavorful lasagna is bound to become a favorite. Let’s get cooking!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Keto and Low-Carb Versions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the White Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Chicken Lasagna
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Lasagna Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the White Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until slightly golden. Gradually whisk in the warmed milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg. Set aside.
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Mix well until smooth.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Spread a thin layer of the white sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Place three lasagna noodles on top. Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by 1/3 of the shredded chicken and a handful of spinach (if using). Pour 1/4 of the white sauce over the chicken layer and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and mozzarella.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers two more times, ending with the last three noodles on top. Pour the remaining white sauce over the final layer of noodles and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Allow the lasagna to cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Chicken Preparation: You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time. Just shred or dice it before adding to the lasagna.
- Avoiding Lumps: When making the white sauce, make sure to whisk constantly while adding the milk to prevent lumps from forming.
- Resting Time: Allowing the lasagna to rest before slicing will help it set and make it easier to serve neat portions.
Variations
- Mushroom Spinach Lasagna: Add sautéed mushrooms along with the spinach for an extra layer of flavor.
- Pesto Chicken Lasagna: Mix 1/4 cup of pesto into the white sauce for a basil-flavored twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the shredded chicken with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
To make a keto-friendly and low-carb version of this Creamy Chicken Lasagna:
- Noodles Substitute: Replace lasagna noodles with thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant to keep it low in carbs.
- White Sauce: Use heavy cream instead of milk for a richer, lower-carb white sauce. You may need to adjust the thickness with a little cream cheese.
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, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature for 20-30 minutes before baking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.
Can I Freeze This Lasagna?
Yes, this lasagna freezes well. Assemble the lasagna in a freezer-safe dish, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour, or until heated through.
What Should I Serve with Creamy Chicken Lasagna?
This lasagna is hearty on its own, but it pairs beautifully with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I Use Store-Bought Alfredo Sauce Instead of Making White Sauce?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought Alfredo sauce in place of the homemade white sauce.
Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce is a comforting, rich dish that’s perfect for family dinners and special occasions alike. The combination of tender chicken, creamy béchamel sauce, and gooey cheese makes every bite satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or to impress your guests, this lasagna is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy this indulgent, comforting classic.
Happy Cooking!
