Introduction to Chicken Lasagna Bake
Welcome to my culinary sanctuary, where we turn dinner into a delightful adventure! Let me introduce you to my beloved Chicken Lasagna Bake—a dish that effortlessly combines comfort and flavor. This recipe is perfect when life gets hectic and you need a quick solution for a busy day. With layers of creamy goodness, tender chicken, and cheesy delight, it’s bound to impress your loved ones. Imagine the joy on their faces as they dig into this heartwarming meal. Trust me, this Chicken Lasagna Bake will become your new go-to for stress-free, satisfying dinners!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Lasagna Bake
This Chicken Lasagna Bake is a game changer in the busy kitchen! Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also brings together a harmonious blend of flavors that the whole family will enjoy. You can whip it up in under an hour, making it an ideal weeknight meal. Plus, the creamy, cheesy layers provide a comfort that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Who wouldn’t love that?
Ingredients for Chicken Lasagna Bake
Now, let’s gather the magical ingredients that will make our Chicken Lasagna Bake a comforting success! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Lasagna noodles: Essentials for any lasagna! They provide the structure and heartiness for our dish.
- Salted butter: This adds a rich flavor to our white sauce. Don’t skimp on it; it’s the foundation of our creamy goodness.
- All-purpose flour: The thickening agent for our sauce. It helps achieve that perfect creamy consistency.
- Ground black pepper, sea salt, garlic powder, onion powder: These spices bring depth, balance, and a punch of flavor to every bite.
- Whole milk: For that creamy texture! Feel free to substitute with a lower-fat milk if you prefer.
- Cream cheese: Adds richness and creaminess to our sauce. Sliced for easy melting.
- Shredded jack cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and adds a unique flavor. You’ll want to have a little extra for sprinkling!
- Ricotta cheese: Essential for the cheesy filling. It brings that classic lasagna creaminess.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: The beloved stringy topping! This cheese creates a beautiful, bubbly crust.
- Baby spinach leaves: A nutritious touch that enhances the dish without overpowering it.
- Cooked chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or prepare your own if you have the time!
- Large egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture, giving it a lovely texture.
- Dried or fresh parsley: A splash of color and freshness. It’s the little things that elevate your dish!
All these scrumptious ingredients come together to create a symphony of flavor. For exact measurements, you can find them at the bottom of the article, where they’ll be available for printing. Gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
How to Make Chicken Lasagna Bake
Are you ready to create your own Chicken Lasagna Bake? Let’s dive into these simple, yet delightful steps. Make sure to follow along carefully!
Prepare the Noodles
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Add your lasagna noodles and cook them until they’re al dente, usually around 8–10 minutes. Remember, we want them firm enough to hold layers but soft enough to enjoy. Once done, carefully drain them and set them aside. A tip? Lay them flat on a baking sheet or wax paper to prevent sticking.
Make the White Sauce
Next, let’s whip up that creamy white sauce! In a 4-quart saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, along with ¾ teaspoon of ground black pepper, ½ teaspoon of sea salt, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon of onion powder. Cook this mixture for about 1–2 minutes until it bubbles like a happy little mountain stream.
Gradually whisk in 4½ cups of whole milk. Keep stirring until it thickens and gently bubbles, which should take about 6–8 minutes. Then, stir in sliced cream cheese and ½ cup of shredded jack cheese until you have a smooth, delicious sauce. Fold in 4 to 5 cups of baby spinach leaves for an extra nutritional boost!
Mix the Cheeses
Now for the cheesy goodness! In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese with 1 lightly beaten egg, ½ teaspoon of parsley, and ½ cup of shredded jack cheese. Mix until smooth and oh-so-creamy. This blend adds richness and a delightful texture to our lasagna!
Assemble the Layers
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch glass baking dish to get started on the layering process. Begin with a thin layer of that luscious white sauce at the bottom. Then, place three cooked lasagna noodles side by side over the sauce, forming the foundation of flavor. Spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles, followed by half the diced or shredded cooked chicken and a third of the white sauce. Top this with a generous 1 cup of mozzarella and 1 cup of jack cheese.
Repeat this process by layering another set of noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, and chicken. Complete this layer with another cup of mozzarella and jack cheese.
Finally, crown your masterpiece with the last layer of noodles, draping the remaining white sauce across the top. Finish it off with the remainder of the mozzarella and jack cheese. Your Chicken Lasagna Bake is looking divine!
Bake the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once preheated, place your beautifully assembled lasagna in the oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is golden and lightly browned. The aroma wafting through your home will be absolutely heavenly! Once it’s done, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Oh, the anticipation!
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the lasagna noodles; they will continue to cook while baking.
- Let your Chicken Lasagna Bake sit for a few minutes after baking; this helps it set beautifully.
- To make ahead, assemble and refrigerate the lasagna without baking; simply add 10 minutes to the baking time.
- Experiment with herbs or spices for added flavor in the cheese mixture!
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: For boiling lasagna noodles. A big saucepan works just as well!
- 4-quart saucepan: Ideal for making the white sauce. If you don’t have one, any large saucepan will do the trick.
- Whisk: Perfect for mixing your sauces. A fork can work in a pinch!
- 9×13-inch glass baking dish: Essential for layering and baking. Any similar-sized dish will work!
- Mixing bowls: Handy for combining your cheese ingredients. You can use any bowl you have in the kitchen.
Variations
- Vegetable Delight: Swap half of the chicken with your favorite veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the white sauce for a little heat that will awaken your taste buds!
- Whole Wheat Noodles: Substitute regular lasagna noodles for whole wheat varieties to sneak in more fiber and nutrients.
- Low-Fat Option: Use low-fat cream cheese, skim milk, and reduced-fat cheeses to lighten up this classic dish without sacrificing flavor.
- Gluten-Free Version: Opt for gluten-free lasagna noodles, ensuring everyone can enjoy this hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Fresh Salad: Pair your Chicken Lasagna Bake with a crisp Caesar or garden salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up any delicious extra sauce!
- Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the creamy flavors beautifully.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
FAQs about Chicken Lasagna Bake
As you dive into making this Chicken Lasagna Bake, you might have a few questions. Let’s tackle some common ones to help you out!
Can I make Chicken Lasagna Bake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble your Chicken Lasagna Bake up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, pop it into the oven and add about 10 extra minutes to the cooking time.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover Chicken Lasagna Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven until warmed through.
Can I freeze Chicken Lasagna Bake?
Yes! This dish freezes beautifully. Just wrap the fully assembled, unbaked lasagna tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It can go straight from the freezer to the oven in about 60–70 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
What can I serve with Chicken Lasagna Bake?
Pair it with a simple salad, some garlic bread, or a glass of your favorite wine. A light accompaniment will balance out the richness of the lasagna and make for a well-rounded meal.
Is Chicken Lasagna Bake suitable for kids?
Definitely! It’s a kid-friendly recipe packed with flavors that children often love. Feel free to get creative by sneaking in some grated vegetables or letting them help in the assembly process!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about a homemade Chicken Lasagna Bake. It’s more than just a comforting meal; it brings family together. The laughter around the table and the satisfying smiles from loved ones remind me why I cherish cooking. This dish transforms a busy evening into a cozy gathering, where flavors meld seamlessly into a warm embrace. So, whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe promises to deliver joy and flavor with every bite. Trust me, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Print
Chicken Lasagna Bake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious Chicken Lasagna Bake that combines layers of pasta, creamy sauce, cheeses, and tender chicken for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¾ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 4½ cups whole milk
- 8 ounces cream cheese, sliced
- 4 cups shredded jack cheese, divided into ½ cup, ½ cup, and three 1-cup portions
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 to 5 cups baby spinach leaves
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- ½ teaspoon dried or fresh parsley
Instructions
- Set oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil lasagna noodles in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a 4-quart saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour, black pepper, sea salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 to 2 minutes until mixture is browned and bubbly.
- Gradually whisk in whole milk to the roux until smooth. Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring, until the sauce reaches a gentle boil and thickens, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Add sliced cream cheese and ½ cup shredded jack cheese to the sauce. Stir until fully melted and combined. Remove from heat.
- Fold baby spinach leaves into the white sauce and set the mixture aside.
- In a small bowl, mix ricotta cheese, beaten egg, dried or fresh parsley, and ½ cup shredded jack cheese until smooth.
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch glass baking dish. Spread a thin layer of white sauce to cover the bottom. Layer three lasagna noodles side by side over the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles. Distribute half the cooked chicken atop. Spoon one-third of the white sauce over the chicken and ricotta. Sprinkle with 1 cup mozzarella and 1 cup jack cheese.
- Arrange another layer of noodles. Spread the remaining ricotta mixture followed by the remaining chicken. Top with 1 cup each of mozzarella and jack cheese.
- Add the final layer of noodles. Cover with the remaining white sauce and finish by sprinkling the last portions of mozzarella and jack cheese evenly on top.
- Bake in preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, until sauce is bubbling and cheese is melted and lightly browned.
- Remove from oven and optionally garnish with additional parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding your favorite spices to the chicken.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
- If desired, substitute vegetables for added nutrition.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
