If you are searching for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug, this Creamy Chicken Spinach Lasagna Recipe is the perfect choice. It combines tender shredded chicken, fresh spinach, and a luscious homemade creamy sauce layered between sheets of perfectly cooked lasagna noodles. Every bite offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures—from the gooey melted cheeses to the vibrant green spinach—that makes this dish a standout for cozy dinners or special occasions alike. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become one of your all-time favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is key to making a delicious Creamy Chicken Spinach Lasagna Recipe. Each item plays an essential role in building the rich flavors and smooth textures that define this dish, resulting in a meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
- Lasagna noodles: Cooked al dente to provide a perfect, tender base that holds all the delicious layers together.
- Rotisserie chicken: Shredded for convenience and flavor, offering a juicy protein component without extra fuss.
- Olive oil: For sautéing onions gently and enhancing the overall richness.
- Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when softened.
- Unsalted butter: Helps create the creamy roux which thickens the sauce.
- All-purpose flour: Combined with butter to form the base of the creamy white sauce.
- Chicken broth: Infuses the sauce with savory undertones.
- Half and half: Brings a velvety smoothness that balances the dish without overwhelming richness.
- Fresh spinach: Chopped coarsely, offering a fresh, vibrant color and earthy flavor.
- Sea salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every component.
- Garlic: Adds aromatic warmth and a subtle kick.
- Ricotta cheese: Lends creaminess and body to the filling, making every bite delightful.
- Egg: Acts as a binder, keeping the cheese mixture firm yet tender.
- Parsley: Fresh and chopped, it brightens the flavor and adds a gentle color contrast.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated for savory, nutty notes that complement the creamy texture.
- Mozzarella cheese: Shredded and used generously for melty, stretchy cheese pull perfection.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Spinach Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles and Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente—just tender enough to bite but firm enough to hold their shape. Rinse them with cold water to stop further cooking and prevent sticking. Meanwhile, shred your rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breasts to have that tender protein ready for layering.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Spinach Sauce
In a large skillet, sauté the finely chopped onion in olive oil until soft and fragrant. Add the butter and whisk in the flour, cooking until it turns a light golden color to form a roux. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and half and half, whisking continuously until you get a smooth, creamy sauce. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken nicely. Finally, stir in the minced garlic and fresh chopped spinach, cooking just until the spinach wilts, then remove from the heat.
Step 3: Combine the Ricotta Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, blend together the ricotta cheese, egg, two cups of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, and chopped parsley. This mixture will bring creamy richness and a touch of herbaceous flavor to the layers, harmonizing beautifully with the spinach sauce and chicken.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna Layers
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and begin by spreading a thin layer of the spinach cream sauce on the bottom. This prevents sticking and adds moisture to the first noodle layer. Place three noodles over the sauce, then layer half of the ricotta mixture, followed by half of the shredded chicken, and one-third of the spinach sauce. Repeat the layering process for a second tier. Finish by topping with the remaining noodles, the last of the spinach sauce, and one cup of the mozzarella cheese to create a golden, melty crust.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover your assembled lasagna with foil. Use toothpicks to keep the foil from sticking to the cheese if needed. Bake in your preheated oven for 45 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld and the cheese to bubble. For a finishing touch, remove the foil and broil for 2 to 3 minutes until the top cheese turns a mouth-watering golden brown. Let the lasagna rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing; this step is crucial to let it set and make serving neat and easy.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Spinach Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan just before serving brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise, creating an inviting presentation. A delicate drizzle of olive oil or a few chili flakes can also add layers of excitement for those who love a little heat.
Side Dishes
Pair this rich lasagna with a crisp green salad tossed with a simple vinaigrette for refreshing contrast. Garlic bread is another classic side that complements the creamy chicken spinach lasagna recipe perfectly by soaking up the delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve it in individual casserole dishes for a charming personal touch. You can also cut the lasagna into smaller squares and use toothpicks for fun party-friendly appetizers, ensuring everyone gets a taste of this creamy delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the lasagna to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to four days to keep the ingredients fresh and flavorful.
Freezing
This creamy chicken spinach lasagna recipe freezes beautifully. For best results, assemble the lasagna in a freezer-safe container, cover it well, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent dryness, for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power in short intervals for a quick fix, stirring gently in between.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can use freshly cooked chicken breasts or thighs. Just make sure to shred the chicken finely after it’s cooked so it layers well and absorbs the flavors of the sauce.
What can I substitute for half and half?
If you don’t have half and half, a simple mix of equal parts milk and heavy cream works just as well to get that creamy texture in the sauce.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
To make this Creamy Chicken Spinach Lasagna Recipe gluten-free, swap the regular lasagna noodles for gluten-free versions and use gluten-free all-purpose flour in the sauce preparation.
Can I add other vegetables to the lasagna?
Definitely! Mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers can be sautéed and added to the layers for extra flavor, texture, and nutrition if you want to customize the dish.
How long does the lasagna need to rest before serving?
Letting the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes after baking is important to allow the layers to set. This makes slicing cleaner and ensures that each piece holds together beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about sharing a meal as hearty and rich as this Creamy Chicken Spinach Lasagna Recipe with your loved ones. It’s the kind of dish that warms your heart and fills your home with irresistible aroma. Don’t hesitate to make it your own and savor every luscious bite—you’re going to love how this recipe turns a family dinner into a special occasion.
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Creamy Chicken Spinach Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Chicken Lasagna is a creamy, comforting pasta bake that layers tender shredded chicken, spinach-infused cream sauce, and a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Perfect for a family dinner, it combines hearty ingredients with a smooth béchamel-style sauce to create a rich and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Lasagna Base
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
- 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (or cooked chicken breast)
Spinach Cream Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups half and half (or equal parts heavy cream and milk)
- 5 ounces fresh spinach, coarsely chopped
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Cheese Mixture
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Noodles: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Rinse them under cold water and drain well. Shred the cooked chicken if not already shredded.
- Make the Spinach Cream Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the finely chopped onion until softened and translucent. Add the butter and whisk in the flour, cooking until the mixture is golden and smooth. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and half and half, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer the sauce for about 5 minutes or until it thickens. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped spinach, then remove from heat. Season with sea salt and black pepper.
- Mix the Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, beaten egg, 2 cups of the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Mix until evenly incorporated.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of the prepared spinach cream sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer three lasagna noodles over the sauce, then add half of the ricotta cheese mixture, followed by half of the shredded chicken, and then a third of the spinach cream sauce. Repeat the layering with three more noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, remaining chicken, and another third of the sauce. Finish by layering the last three noodles, the remaining spinach cream sauce, and topping it all with the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake and Broil: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil, using toothpicks to keep the foil from sticking to the cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a richer cream sauce, use all heavy cream instead of half and half.
- To save time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
- Make sure not to overcook the noodles to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Use fresh spinach for best flavor; frozen spinach may release too much water and alter the sauce consistency.
- Letting the lasagna rest after baking helps it set and makes it easier to slice.
