Ah, White Cheese Chicken Lasagna! This is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I remember the first time I tried it; I was at a family gathering, and my aunt had made a giant tray of it. The moment I took that first bite, I knew I was in for a treat. The cheesy goodness, the tender chicken, and the hint of garlic meld together in a delightful symphony of flavors that had me going back for seconds (okay, maybe thirds). It’s hard to believe something that tastes this fantastic can be made in a flash!
What I love about this lasagna is that it’s both comforting and impressive. Whether you’re hosting a lavish dinner party or just gathering around the table with family during a busy weeknight, it’s sure to please everyone. Trust me; there’s nothing better than pulling a bubbling, cheesy lasagna out of the oven and watching everyone’s eyes light up. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish!
What’s in White Cheese Chicken Lasagna?
- Lasagna noodles: I prefer using oven-ready noodles because they save time and ensure a perfectly cooked dish. However, if you have regular noodles on hand, just boil them according to package instructions!
- Cooked chicken: Shredded chicken (rotisserie works wonders here) brings great flavor and protein to the dish. It’s a fantastic way to use leftover chicken too!
- Ricotta cheese: This creamy ricotta adds richness and a wonderful texture to the filling. I opt for part-skim ricotta for a slightly lighter option without losing any creamy goodness.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan lends its nutty flavor to the mix. Trust me, it’s a secret weapon in this recipe.
- Mozzarella cheese: Shredded mozzarella is the gooey, stretchy cheesy layer that makes the lasagna irresistible. I use a combination of low-moisture and fresh mozzarella for extra flavor.
- Fresh spinach: Fresh spinach gives this dish a pop of color and nutrition. You can’t go wrong with greens, right? If you’re in a pinch, thawed frozen spinach works just fine.
- Garlic: Because garlic makes everything better! It adds a lovely aroma and taste to the filling.
- Italian seasoning: A must for that authentic Italian flavor. You can also use a mix of your favorite herbs.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for that flavor punch!
- Olive oil: A splash of olive oil is perfect for sautéing the garlic and spinach.
- White sauce: For the base, you can use store-bought Alfredo sauce or whip up a homemade version. Either way, you’ll want that creamy, dreamy layer between the noodles!
- Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end adds a touch of color and freshness to the dish. Totally optional but highly recommended!
Is White Cheese Chicken Lasagna Good for You?
While this lasagna is definitely a comfort food, it can have its health perks! The chicken packs in protein, and the spinach provides essential vitamins and minerals. Plus, the ricotta and mozzarella offer a good source of calcium. However, it’s important to note that this dish can be high in calories due to the creamy sauces and cheeses, so moderation is key—especially if you’re planning to have seconds (not that I blame you!). For a lighter twist, consider using whole wheat noodles, low-fat dairy options, or even sneaking in some extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini. It’s all about balance!
Ingredients List
- 9 to 12 lasagna noodles (oven-ready preferred)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 3 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups white sauce (Alfredo sauce or homemade)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make White Cheese Chicken Lasagna?
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted (if using fresh). If you’re using frozen, just make sure it’s thawed and drained. Set it aside once cooked.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, half of the grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is nicely combined.
- Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and start layering! First, spread a thin layer of white sauce on the bottom.
- Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Add a layer of the chicken and ricotta mixture over the noodles.
- Spread some of that wilted spinach on top.
- Pour a layer of white sauce over the spinach.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat these layers until you’ve filled the dish, finishing with a layer of noodles, remaining white sauce, and the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. You can even broil it for a few minutes for an extra golden crust if you’re feeling fancy!
- Let the lasagna cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This is the hardest part—trust me, it’s worth the wait! Garnish with fresh parsley if you wish.
Lasagna Lovers Guide
- For a richer flavor, mix in fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the chicken filling. It elevates the taste to a whole new level!
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this lasagna with a simple green salad or some warm garlic bread to round out your meal.
- If you happen to have leftovers, this lasagna reheats beautifully! Just splash a little water or sauce on top before microwaving to keep it moist.
There you have it—your ticket to lasagna perfection! I can’t wait for you to try this White Cheese Chicken Lasagna. It’s bound to become a delightful staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out; I simply love hearing your cooking stories! Happy baking!
