Description
This Creamy Chicken Lasagna is a cozy and indulgent twist on a beloved classic. It layers juicy shredded chicken, sautéed spinach, silky béchamel sauce, and gooey cheese for a dish that’s comforting, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for make-ahead dinners. Ideal for quick dinner ideas, easy family meals, and even elegant gatherings, this easy recipe fits into countless food ideas for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying dinner idea or a creamy and delicious alternative to traditional lasagna, this dish hits all the right notes.
Ingredients
3 cups cooked shredded chicken
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
3 garlic cloves minced
5 oz fresh spinach or 10 oz frozen spinach drained
0.5 teaspoon dried basil or Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
0.25 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk warm
0.5 cup heavy cream optional
0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
9 to 12 lasagna noodles
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
0.5 cup ricotta cheese or cottage cheese optional
0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Chopped parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
1. Boil the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay flat on parchment paper or lightly oil to prevent sticking.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Stir in shredded chicken, basil, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes. Gradually add warm milk while whisking. Add cream, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5–7 minutes until thick. Stir in Parmesan.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.
5. Spread a thin layer of white sauce on the bottom. Layer noodles, chicken-spinach mix, ricotta (optional), white sauce, and mozzarella. Repeat layers and finish with sauce and cheese on top.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes. Uncover and bake for 10–15 more minutes until golden and bubbly.
7. Let rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.
Let the lasagna rest after baking to hold its shape.
Make-ahead friendly: assemble a day ahead and bake when ready.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: creamy chicken lasagna, white sauce lasagna, chicken pasta bake, comfort food, dinner ideas, easy lasagna recipe