Get ready to dive into layers of creamy goodness with this white cheese chicken lasagna that’s sure to become a family favorite. Great for any occasion, this dish combines tender chicken, rich cheeses, and perfect pasta layers for a meal that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses creates a creamy, dreamy texture that’s hard to resist.
- Using pre-cooked chicken saves time without sacrificing flavor, making this recipe both delicious and convenient.
- Layers of lasagna noodles soaked in a rich white sauce ensure every bite is packed with flavor and perfectly moist.
- It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with different cheeses or vegetables to suit your taste.
- Perfect for make-ahead meals, this lasagna tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles, uncooked
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Large pot
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F. While the oven heats, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent the noodles from sticking. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the White Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth, then gradually add the milk, continuing to whisk to avoid lumps. Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the sauce until it thickens, about 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
Step 3: Mix the Cheeses
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and the Parmesan cheese. Mix well until all the cheeses are evenly incorporated. This mixture will add a creamy layer to your lasagna.
Step 4: Layer the Lasagna
Spread a thin layer of the white sauce in the bottom of the baking dish. Place 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce, then spread half of the cheese mixture over the noodles. Add half of the shredded chicken, then repeat the layers. Top with the remaining noodles, white sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let the lasagna stand for 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
Tips and Tricks
For an even creamier texture, you can substitute half of the ricotta cheese with cream cheese. If you’re short on time, using a rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. To add a bit of crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before the final bake. For a lighter version, you can use low-fat cheeses and milk. Always let the lasagna rest before cutting to ensure clean slices.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetable Lover’s Lasagna: Add layers of sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini for a veggie-packed version.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the white sauce for a spicy twist.
- Meat Lover’s Dream: Substitute the chicken with ground beef or Italian sausage for a heartier dish.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and a gluten-free flour blend for the white sauce.
- Extra Cheesy: Add a layer of provolone or fontina cheese between the noodles for an even cheesier lasagna.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going into the oven cold.
Can I freeze the lasagna?
Yes, this lasagna freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in 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?
A crisp green salad and some garlic bread make perfect accompaniments to this rich and creamy lasagna. For a lighter side, steamed vegetables are also a great option.
Summary
This creamy white cheese chicken lasagna is a comforting and indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With layers of tender chicken, rich cheeses, and perfect pasta, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize to your taste and perfect for make-ahead meals.