Creamy Chicken Lasagna Recipe: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Dish

Are you ready to elevate your lasagna game with a creamy and indulgent twist? Look no further than this mouthwatering Creamy Chicken Lasagna recipe! With layers of tender chicken, rich ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and a luxurious cream sauce, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. Plus, with its simple yet sophisticated flavors, it’s perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. So, let’s dive into the details and discover how to create this irresistible culinary masterpiece!

Ingredients:

3 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
5 ounces fresh baby spinach
12 lasagna noodles, uncooked
15 ounces ricotta
1 large egg
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cups mozzarella cheese, reserve 1 cup
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 ½ cups cooked diced chicken
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cream Sauce:

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the flour until well combined, and cook for an additional 2 minutes to create a roux.
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Stir in the fresh baby spinach and cook until wilted. Remove the sauce from heat and set aside.

2. Prepare the Lasagna Noodles:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.

4. Assemble the Lasagna:

Spread a thin layer of the cream sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Arrange 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce, overlapping slightly.
Spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles, followed by half of the diced chicken and a third of the mozzarella cheese.
Repeat the layers with another layer of cream sauce, lasagna noodles, remaining ricotta mixture, remaining chicken, and another third of the mozzarella cheese.
Top the lasagna with the remaining noodles, cream sauce, and reserved mozzarella cheese.

5. Bake the Lasagna:

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the lasagna is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.

6. Garnish and Serve:

Once cooked, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Slice and serve the creamy chicken lasagna hot, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

Enhance your Creamy Chicken Lasagna with these tips and variations:

Add Vegetables: Incorporate additional vegetables such as sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or shredded carrots for added flavor and nutrition.
Try Different Proteins: Swap the chicken for cooked ground turkey, sausage, or even shrimp for a unique twist on this classic dish.
Use Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses such as fontina, provolone, or Asiago to customize the flavor profile of your lasagna.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Indulge in a keto-friendly or low-carb version of this creamy chicken lasagna with these adaptations:

Keto Version:

Low-Carb Noodles: Substitute traditional lasagna noodles with low-carb alternatives such as thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant for a keto-friendly option.
Creamy Sauce: Use heavy cream and cream cheese instead of flour-based roux to create a rich and creamy sauce with fewer carbs.
Cheese Options: Opt for full-fat cheeses and skip low-fat varieties to keep the carb count low while maintaining the creamy texture and flavor.

Low-Carb Version:

Almond Flour Noodles: Make your own low-carb lasagna noodles using almond flour or coconut flour for a grain-free alternative.
Lighten Up the Sauce: Use a combination of chicken broth and heavy cream or coconut milk to create a lighter sauce with fewer carbs.
Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes to keep carb intake in check, especially when using traditional lasagna noodles.

In conclusion, Creamy Chicken Lasagna is a comforting and indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its layers of tender chicken, creamy ricotta cheese, and flavorful spinach, it’s a satisfying meal that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re serving it up for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this creamy chicken lasagna is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of creamy, cheesy goodness that’s simply irresistible!

creamy Chicken Lasagna Recipe