White Chicken Caprese Lasagna Recipe

White Chicken Caprese Lasagna is a luxurious, layered dish that reimagines the traditional lasagna with a lighter yet equally indulgent twist. Combining tender shredded chicken, creamy white sauce, fresh basil, juicy tomatoes, and gooey mozzarella, this recipe takes the essence of a Caprese salad and turns it into a hearty, comforting casserole.

Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep, this lasagna is both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. With layers of rich flavors and textures, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Follow along to create a mouthwatering dish that balances the tangy sweetness of tomatoes, the freshness of basil, and the creaminess of the cheese in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Flavorful Layers: Each bite offers a perfect combination of chicken, cheese, and basil-infused cream sauce.
2. Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this dish.
3. Make-Ahead Option: Great for prepping in advance for busy evenings.
4. Customizable: Easily adapted to suit dietary preferences or available ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling

1. In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
2. If using rotisserie chicken, ensure it’s shredded finely for even layering.

Step 2: Make the White Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Whisk in the flour, stirring constantly to create a smooth roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
3. Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

1. Boil the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cool water to prevent sticking.
2. Lay the noodles flat on a parchment-lined surface.

Step 4: Mix the Ricotta Layer

1. In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese, the beaten egg, a pinch of salt, and a dash of pepper. Stir until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Spread a thin layer of the white sauce on the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking.
3. Place 3 lasagna noodles in the dish, slightly overlapping.
4. Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
5. Top with 1/3 of the shredded chicken, a handful of cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of fresh basil.
6. Drizzle a layer of white sauce over the ingredients and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Repeat this process for two more layers, ending with a final layer of mozzarella on top.

Step 6: Bake the Lasagna

1. Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from burning.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
4. Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set.

Tips for Success

1. Thin Sauce: If your white sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out before layering.
2. Even Layers: Spread each layer evenly to ensure consistent flavor throughout the lasagna.
3. Prevent Overcooking: Don’t overcook the noodles during boiling; they’ll continue to cook in the oven.
4. Use Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds authentic Caprese flavor, so don’t skip it.

Variations

Vegetarian Option

• Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or grilled zucchini.

Gluten-Free

• Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and gluten-free flour for the white sauce.

Extra Cheesy

• Add a layer of provolone cheese or Gouda for a richer flavor.

Spicy Twist

• Incorporate red pepper flakes into the white sauce for a bit of heat.

Serving Suggestions

White Chicken Caprese Lasagna is a meal in itself, but here are a few side ideas:

• Salad: Serve with a light Caesar or arugula salad.
• Bread: Pair with warm, crusty garlic bread.
• Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the dish beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use fresh pasta sheets instead of lasagna noodles?
A: Yes, fresh pasta sheets work wonderfully and don’t require pre-cooking.

Q: What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
A: Cottage cheese or a mixture of cream cheese and sour cream makes a great substitute.

Q: How do I prevent the lasagna from becoming watery?
A: Pat the cherry tomatoes dry before layering, and ensure the white sauce is thick enough to bind the layers.

Conclusion

White Chicken Caprese Lasagna combines the best of two culinary worlds: the hearty comfort of lasagna and the fresh, vibrant flavors of a Caprese salad. The creamy white sauce, juicy tomatoes, tender chicken, and fragrant basil create layers of flavor that are both indulgent and refreshing.

This versatile dish is perfect for any occasion and is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you serve it at a dinner party or enjoy it as a weeknight meal, it’s guaranteed to impress. Make this recipe your own by experimenting with ingredients and savor the rich, delicious results!

Yield: 6

White Chicken Caprese Lasagna Recipe

Print

White Chicken Caprese Lasagna is a luxurious, layered dish that reimagines the traditional lasagna with a lighter yet equally indulgent twist. Combining tender shredded chicken, creamy white sauce, fresh basil, juicy tomatoes, and gooey mozzarella, this recipe takes the essence of a Caprese salad and turns it into a hearty, comforting casserole.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Lasagna Layers:
• 9 lasagna noodles (regular or oven-ready)
• 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• For the White Sauce:
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly to form a roux.
4. Gradually add the milk and cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Bring to a simmer, and cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Cook the Noodles (if using regular lasagna noodles)

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain and set aside, ensuring the noodles don’t stick together.

3. Assemble the Lasagna

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a thin layer of the white sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
3. Lay 3 lasagna noodles on top.
4. Spread a third of the shredded chicken, a third of the ricotta, and a third of the halved cherry tomatoes over the noodles. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Add a few basil leaves and drizzle some white sauce on top.
6. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

4. Bake the Lasagna

1. Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
3. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

5. Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy, cheesy White Chicken Caprese Lasagna with:

• A side salad with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Garlic bread or a crusty baguette.
• A glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.

Notes

• Swap Proteins: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey for convenience.
• Add Greens: Incorporate a layer of spinach or arugula for extra nutrients.
• Extra Tang: Drizzle balsamic glaze over each slice before serving.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with zucchini slices or sautéed mushrooms.