White Chicken Lasagna Recipe

Creamy White Chicken Lasagna Recipe: A Comforting Twist

Crafting a delectable white chicken lasagna requires more than just ingredients, it’s a culinary adventure waiting to unfold.

Layers of creamy sauce and tender chicken promise a comforting meal that breaks away from traditional red sauce recipes.

Soft noodles nestled between rich, velvety béchamel create a symphony of flavors that dance across your palate.

Weeknight dinners demand something special, and this dish delivers with its elegant yet approachable charm.

Savory herbs and melted cheeses weave through each bite, offering a luxurious experience that feels both sophisticated and homey.

Cheese lovers and comfort food enthusiasts will find themselves utterly captivated by this creamy, soul-warming creation.

Let’s embark on a cooking journey that will transform your dinner table into a gourmet destination.

FAQs

  • Can I use dried lasagna noodles instead of fresh ones?

Yes, dried lasagna noodles work perfectly. Just soak them in hot water for 30 minutes before assembling the lasagna to soften them and reduce cooking time.

  • Is it possible to make this lasagna ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

  • How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute the regular flour with gluten-free flour in the Alfredo sauce and use gluten-free lasagna noodles. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

  • Can I freeze White Chicken Lasagna?

Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely, then wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

White Chicken Lasagna That’s Creamy Comfort

White Chicken Lasagna That’s Creamy Comfort
  • Craft Comfort Food Easily: Perfect for busy home cooks who want delicious meals without complex techniques.
  • Customize and Adapt: Swap chicken with turkey or add different vegetables to match family preferences and dietary needs.
  • Meal Prep Champion: Prepare ahead and refrigerate, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests without last-minute stress.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Potential: Serves multiple people, freezes well, and satisfies both kids and adults with its creamy, cheesy texture and mild flavors.

What You’ll Layer in White Chicken Lasagna

Pasta Base:
  • Lasagna Noodles: Classic pasta layers providing the structural foundation of the dish, no pre-boiling required.
Protein and Dairy Components:
  • Shredded Chicken: Lean protein adding substantial texture and flavor to the lasagna.
  • Ricotta Cheese: Creamy base for the filling, creating a rich and smooth texture.
  • Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and moisture to the cheese mixture.
  • Eggs: Binding agent that helps hold the cheese mixture together.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Provides sharp, salty flavor in both sauce and filling.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Melty topping that creates a golden, stretchy cheese layer.
Sauce and Seasoning Ingredients:
  • Butter: Creates a rich base for the white Alfredo sauce.
  • Flour: Thickens the sauce and provides smooth consistency.
  • Garlic: Adds aromatic depth to the sauce.
  • Half-and-Half: Creamy liquid creating luxurious sauce texture.
  • Chicken Broth: Enhances sauce flavor and adds moisture.
  • Basil: Fresh herb bringing light, herbal notes to the filling.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings for balanced flavor.
  • Nutmeg: Subtle warm spice complementing the creamy elements.
  • Artichokes: Adds interesting texture and mild tangy flavor.
  • Spinach: Provides nutritional boost and vibrant green color.

White Chicken Lasagna – How to Bake and Assemble

White Chicken Lasagna - How to Bake and Assemble

Step 1: Soften Lasagna Noodles

Submerge lasagna noodles in a large pan filled with hot water.

Let them relax and become pliable for about 30 minutes, giving an occasional gentle stir to prevent them from clinging together.

Step 2: Prepare Creamy Ricotta Mixture

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine:
  • Ricotta cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Eggs
  • Grated Parmesan
  • Fresh basil
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Nutmeg

Fold in chopped artichokes and spinach until everything is beautifully blended.

Step 3: Create Luxurious Alfredo Sauce

Heat a large skillet over medium temperature.

Melt butter, then whisk in flour and minced garlic.

Cook while stirring constantly for 2 minutes to create a smooth base.

Lower the heat and gradually incorporate half-and-half, chicken broth, and seasonings.

Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce and simmer for 5 minutes, whisking frequently.

Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese and shredded chicken.

Step 4: Assemble Lasagna Layers

Grease a deep 9×13 baking dish.

Spread a generous cup of Alfredo sauce across the bottom.

Layer lasagna noodles, followed by one-third of the ricotta mixture and a cup of mozzarella.

Repeat these layers two more times, using equal amounts of Alfredo sauce.

Top with remaining sauce and a final sprinkle of mozzarella.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

Remove foil and continue baking for another 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.

For an extra touch of deliciousness, broil for 3 minutes to create a crispy cheese topping (keep a close eye to prevent burning).

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Allow the lasagna to rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

Enjoy your creamy, comforting masterpiece!

Lasagna Tips With White Chicken Layers

  • Let lasagna noodles rest in hot water for at least 30 minutes to ensure they soften evenly without breaking, preventing tough or uncooked pasta spots.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg to the ricotta mixture for a subtle warmth that enhances the overall taste profile of the white chicken lasagna.
  • Whisk the Alfredo sauce continuously while cooking to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy texture that coats the ingredients perfectly.
  • Watch the broiling stage carefully to get a golden-brown cheese top without scorching, which can happen quickly under high heat.
  • Allow the lasagna to sit for 15 minutes after baking, letting the layers set and making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.

White Chicken Lasagna Keeps Its Layers Intact

  • Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed, it will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Wrap individual portions or the entire lasagna tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months to preserve quality and taste.
  • Warm individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, covering with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. For best results, use 50% power and check every 30 seconds.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake covered at 350°F for 20-25 minutes. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp the top layer and restore that fresh-from-the-oven texture.

Side Ideas For Chicken Lasagna

  • Pair with Crisp Chardonnay: Select a medium-bodied, unoaked Chardonnay with bright acidity to complement the rich, creamy lasagna. The wine's citrus and apple notes will cut through the heavy cheese and balance the dish's richness.
  • Match with Fresh Arugula Salad: Create a light, peppery salad with arugula, lemon vinaigrette, shaved Parmesan, and toasted pine nuts. The salad's bright, zesty flavors will provide a refreshing contrast to the lasagna's creamy texture.
  • Serve with Roasted Garlic Bread: Prepare crusty sourdough bread brushed with olive oil, roasted garlic, and herbs. The bread's crispy exterior and soft interior will soak up the lasagna's flavorful sauce while adding textural variety to the meal.
  • Complement with Sparkling Water with Lemon: Offer a refreshing, palate-cleansing beverage with fresh lemon slices. The citrusy, effervescent drink will help cut through the richness and provide a light, clean finish to each bite.

White Chicken Lasagna Styles

  • Gluten-Free Adaptation: Replace traditional lasagna noodles with gluten-free lasagna sheets or zucchini ribbons. Use gluten-free flour for the Alfredo sauce and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken with roasted portobello mushrooms or plant-based protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and add extra vegetables like roasted bell peppers or eggplant for depth.
  • Low-Carb Option: Substitute lasagna noodles with thin slices of roasted eggplant or large zucchini strips. Reduce overall carbohydrate content while maintaining the creamy, rich flavor profile of the original recipe.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut cream instead of half-and-half, dairy-free cream cheese in place of ricotta, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. Select a dairy-free mozzarella alternative to maintain the dish's creamy texture.
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White Chicken Lasagna Recipe

White Chicken Lasagna Recipe


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4.5 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Creamy white chicken lasagna brings comfort and elegance to classic Italian pasta tradition. Layers of tender chicken, rich bechamel sauce, and melted cheese create a satisfying meal that will delight you at first bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Proteins:

  • 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
  • 3 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1 lb shredded mozzarella cheese (4 cups)
  • 2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 eggs

Dairy and Liquids:

  • 3 cups half-and-half
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup full-fat sour cream
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (or substitute half olive oil)

Dry Ingredients and Seasonings:

  • 15 classic lasagna noodles (not no-boil)
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon chicken bouillon
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 8 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (or 1 tablespoon dried)
  • 1 (14 ounces) can artichoke hearts, chopped & patted dry
  • 16 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed & patted dry

Instructions

  1. Prepare lasagna noodles by submerging them in hot water, allowing them to soften for approximately 30 minutes while occasionally stirring to prevent adhesion.
  2. Create a creamy filling by thoroughly blending ricotta, sour cream, eggs, Parmesan, basil, salt, pepper, and nutmeg in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Incorporate chopped artichokes and spinach into the ricotta mixture, ensuring even distribution.
  4. Preheat the oven to a precise 350°F, creating an ideal baking environment.
  5. Craft a rich Alfredo sauce by melting butter in a skillet, then whisking in flour and minced garlic, cooking for two minutes to develop depth of flavor.
  6. Gradually introduce half-and-half and chicken broth into the roux, whisking continuously to create a smooth, velvety sauce.
  7. Simmer the sauce for five minutes, stirring frequently to prevent scorching and enhance its consistency.
  8. Remove the sauce from heat and fold in Parmesan cheese and shredded chicken, creating a luxurious base for the lasagna.
  9. Prepare a 9×13 deep baking dish by lightly greasing its surface and spreading an initial layer of Alfredo sauce.
  10. Construct the first layer by carefully arranging lasagna noodles, followed by an even distribution of ricotta mixture and mozzarella cheese.
  11. Repeat the layering process two additional times, ensuring consistent coverage of Alfredo sauce and cheese between each tier.
  12. Complete the lasagna with a final topping of remaining Alfredo sauce and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
  13. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the ingredients to heat thoroughly.
  14. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes until the lasagna becomes bubbly and golden.
  15. For a perfect finishing touch, broil the lasagna for three minutes to create a beautifully caramelized cheese crust.
  16. Allow the lasagna to rest for 15 minutes before serving, which helps it set and makes slicing easier.

Notes

  • Noodle Soaking Technique: Soak lasagna noodles in hot water for at least 30 minutes to ensure they’re perfectly tender and prevent them from breaking during layering.
  • Cheese Mixture Flexibility: Swap ricotta with cottage cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter version, and experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano to customize the flavor profile.
  • Protein Alternatives: Replace shredded chicken with cooked ground turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or plant-based protein like tofu for diverse dietary needs.
  • Sauce Consistency Tip: Whisk the Alfredo sauce constantly to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy texture that coats the layers evenly.
  • Prep Time: 35 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 540
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 620 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 39 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 33 g
  • Cholesterol: 150 mg
Daniel Bruns

Daniel Bruns

Founder & Culinary Innovator

Expertise

Recipe development for home cooks, Nutritional analysis and meal planning, Culinary education and food writing

Education

Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts
Diploma in Culinary Arts and Operations
Focus: Classical and contemporary cooking techniques, Culinary entrepreneurship and kitchen management, Menu development and food cost analysis


Daniel’s story started with flour on his face and a pie in the oven at his grandma’s house. He later sharpened his skills at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts.
His goal? Recipes so simple you’ll want to cook every night. When he’s not whipping up one-pan wonders, Daniel’s outside picking herbs, hosting neighborhood cook-offs, or baking chocolate cakes with his kids, messy, sweet, and unforgettable.

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