Indulge in a creamy and savory white chicken lasagna that is sure to impress your family and friends. This dish layers tender chicken, rich béchamel sauce, and gooey cheese between sheets of pasta, creating a delightful comfort food experience. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table!
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups béchamel sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, and cooking time is around 40 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 450 calories, 25g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. This is based on a typical serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread a layer of béchamel sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Add half of the chicken mixture on top of the noodles.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella and a bit of Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat layers, finishing with noodles and béchamel sauce on top.
- Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 40 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute cooked chicken with turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. For a lighter version, use low-fat cheeses and whole wheat noodles. Spinach can also be added for extra nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
This delightful white chicken lasagna pairs well with a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or a glass of crisp white wine, enhancing the meal’s flavors.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the noodles can make them mushy.
- Not seasoning the layers can lead to bland flavors.
- Using too much béchamel sauce can make the dish watery.
- Forgetting to cover the lasagna while baking can dry it out.
- Not letting the lasagna rest after baking can lead to messy slices.
Helpful Tips
- Use a mix of cheeses for depth of flavor.
- Let the lasagna sit for 10-15 minutes before serving.
- Experiment with adding vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
- Keep an eye on the baking time to prevent burning.
FAQs
Can I make white chicken lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What type of chicken should I use?
Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great option for convenience, but you can also use grilled or baked chicken breast.
Can I freeze white chicken lasagna?
Absolutely! Freeze it before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Is there a vegetarian option for this lasagna?
Yes, replace the chicken with vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini, and use plant-based cheeses.
How do I know when the lasagna is done?
It’s done when the cheese on top is golden brown and bubbly. A knife inserted in the center should come out hot.
Conclusion
This white chicken lasagna is a comforting and hearty dish that will surely satisfy everyone’s taste buds. With its creamy layers and savory flavors, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful taste of homemade comfort food!
White Chicken Lasagna
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 cups béchamel sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread a layer of béchamel sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Add half of the chicken mixture on top of the noodles.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella and a bit of Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat layers, finishing with noodles and béchamel sauce on top.
- Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 40 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
