Description
A creamy and comforting white chicken lasagna featuring layers of tender chicken, fresh spinach, a rich white sauce, and a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 9 lasagna noodles
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese Mixture
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook Noodles: Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Make White Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until lightly golden, then gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth to avoid lumps. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and simmer until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well to create a smooth and cohesive mixture.
- Assemble Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of the white sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer 3 lasagna noodles on top, followed by some shredded chicken, chopped spinach, a portion of the ricotta cheese mixture, shredded mozzarella, and another layer of sauce. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with a top layer of sauce and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake Covered: Cover the assembled lasagna with aluminum foil to prevent drying and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow it to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works well for convenience and adds great flavor.
- You can substitute kale for spinach or add mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
- Letting the lasagna rest before slicing helps it hold its shape and improves serving presentation.
