White Chicken Lasagna Recipe

White chicken lasagna is a creamy, comforting twist on the traditional Italian favorite. Unlike the classic lasagna, which is often layered with tomato sauce, this version features a rich white sauce that pairs perfectly with tender chicken and gooey cheese. It’s a delicious and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family staple.

What is White Chicken Lasagna?

White chicken lasagna is a variation of the classic lasagna, substituting the traditional tomato-based sauce with a creamy white sauce made from a blend of butter, flour, milk, and cheese. This version also uses cooked chicken instead of ground beef or sausage, making it a lighter yet equally hearty option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this white chicken lasagna because it’s incredibly flavorful, creamy, and satisfying. The layers of tender chicken, gooey cheese, and flavorful white sauce create a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
5. Stir in the cooked, shredded chicken and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Making the White Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps.
4. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Season with dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the ricotta cheese until well combined.

Assembling the Lasagna

1. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Spread a thin layer of the white sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
4. Spread a portion of the chicken mixture over the noodles.
5. Add a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of white sauce and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Baking and Serving

Baking Instructions

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
3. Let the lasagna cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

Tips for Serving

Serve your white chicken lasagna with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil adds a nice touch of color and flavor.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Lasagna

Ensuring a Creamy Texture

To ensure a creamy texture, be sure to cook the white sauce until it is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Avoid overcooking the lasagna, as this can make it dry.

Making Ahead and Freezing

You can prepare white chicken lasagna a day ahead or freeze it for later. To freeze, assemble the lasagna and cover tightly with foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Variations and Customizations

Adding Vegetables

Incorporate vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to add more flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to cook and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the lasagna.

Gluten-Free Options

Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free to make a gluten-free version of this dish.

Nutritional Information

Healthier Alternatives

To make this lasagna lighter, use reduced-fat cheese, low-fat milk, and whole wheat lasagna noodles. You can also add extra vegetables to increase the nutritional value.

Conclusion

White chicken lasagna is a comforting, creamy twist on a classic dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a perfect choice for any occasion, and its versatility allows you to customize it to your liking. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special gathering, this lasagna is guaranteed to impress.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with cooked ground turkey, beef, or even a combination of meats. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning as needed.

How do I make this lasagna vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with a mix of your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers. You can also use a vegetarian white sauce.

Can I use store-bought white sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought white sauce to save time. Just make sure it’s a good quality sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. For best results, reheat in the oven covered with foil.

What can I serve with White Chicken Lasagna?

White chicken lasagna pairs well with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or a light vegetable soup. These sides complement the rich flavors of the lasagna and provide a balanced meal.

Yield: 8

White Chicken Lasagna Recipe

Print

White chicken lasagna is a creamy, comforting twist on the traditional Italian favorite. Unlike the classic lasagna, which is often layered with tomato sauce, this version features a rich white sauce that pairs perfectly with tender chicken and gooey cheese. It’s a delicious and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family staple.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Lasagna:
• 12 lasagna noodles
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (about 2-3 chicken breasts)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• For the White Sauce:
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Cook Noodles:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the White Sauce:
   In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, whisking frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
3. Prepare the Filling:
   In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped spinach, and sliced mushrooms (if using). Mix well.
4. Assemble the Lasagna:
   In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the white sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Spread one-third of the chicken and spinach mixture over the noodles. Spoon one-third of the white sauce over the chicken mixture and sprinkle with a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layering process two more times, ending with a layer of sauce and a final topping of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake:
   Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly and the lasagna is heated through.
6. Rest and Serve:
   Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set. Serve hot.

Notes

For a richer flavor, you can add cooked, crumbled bacon or sautéed onions to the chicken mixture.

To make this dish ahead of time, assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.

You can substitute the fresh spinach with frozen spinach, just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using.