Decadent Creamy White Sauce Chicken Lasagna – Easy Recipe!
Introduction
Are you looking for a delicious and indulgent dish that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than this decadent creamy white sauce chicken lasagna. With layers of tender chicken, rich white sauce, and gooey cheese, this lasagna is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply craving some comfort food, this easy recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Let’s dive into the world of creamy white sauce chicken lasagna and discover how to create this culinary masterpiece.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy white sauce chicken lasagna has so much to offer. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:
- Easy and Quick: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any special culinary skills. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll have a mouthwatering lasagna ready in no time.
- Decadently Creamy: The white sauce in this lasagna is rich, creamy, and oh-so-indulgent. It adds a luxurious touch to the dish, making it a perfect choice for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself.
- Satisfying and Flavorful: The combination of tender chicken, savory sauce, and melted cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Each bite is packed with deliciousness and will keep you coming back for seconds.
- Homemade Goodness: Making lasagna from scratch allows you to control the quality of ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. You’ll take pride in serving a homemade dish that’s made with love.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Note: Feel free to customize your lasagna by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or by using different types of cheese for added flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this creamy white sauce chicken lasagna:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
- Gradually pour in the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens.
- Add the garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir well to combine.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and set aside.
- In a greased baking dish, spread a thin layer of the white sauce.
- Place 3 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce, covering the bottom of the dish.
- Spread half of the shredded chicken over the noodles.
- Pour half of the remaining white sauce over the chicken.
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
- Repeat the layers with 3 more lasagna noodles, the remaining chicken, sauce, and cheeses.
- Top with the remaining 3 lasagna noodles and the remaining white sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before serving.
Expert Tips for Success
Here are some tips to ensure your creamy white sauce chicken lasagna turns out perfectly:
- Be careful not to overcook the lasagna noodles as they will continue cooking in the oven.
- Shred the chicken using two forks or your hands for a more rustic texture.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Feel free to add other seasonings or herbs to the white sauce according to your taste preferences.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk or chicken broth to achieve the desired consistency.
Variations and Substitutions
While this creamy white sauce chicken lasagna is already delicious as is, you can customize it to suit your preferences:
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
- Seafood Twist: Replace the chicken with cooked shrimp or crab meat for a seafood twist on this classic dish.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Dietary Swaps: Substitute whole milk with almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative, and use a plant-based butter spread instead of butter.
Serving Suggestions
To make the most of your creamy white sauce chicken lasagna, consider the following serving suggestions:
- Garlic Bread: Serve the lasagna with a side of warm garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Fresh Salad: Pair the richness of the lasagna with a crisp and refreshing salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors of the lasagna beautifully.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making creamy white sauce chicken lasagna:
1. Can I prepare the lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to prevent drying.
2. Can I freeze the lasagna?
Absolutely! You can freeze the lasagna before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the lasagna and wrap it tightly in foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. If freezing after baking, let the lasagna cool completely, then wrap individual portions or the entire dish in foil and freeze. Thaw and reheat in the oven until heated through.
3. How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm them in the oven.
Final Thoughts
Congratulations! You’ve mastered the art of making decadent creamy white sauce chicken lasagna. This dish is perfect for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to gatherings with friends. The creamy white sauce, tender chicken, and melty cheese come together to create a truly unforgettable experience for your taste buds. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones and let them experience the joy of creamy, cheesy, homemade lasagna. Happy cooking!
Decadent Creamy White Sauce Chicken Lasagna – Easy Recipe!
Indulge in this decadent creamy white sauce chicken lasagna featuring layers of tender chicken, rich white sauce, and gooey cheese. Perfect for special occasions or a comforting meal at home.
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
-
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
-
Gradually pour in the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens.
-
Add the garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir well to combine.
-
Remove the saucepan from heat and set aside.
-
In a greased baking dish, spread a thin layer of the white sauce.
-
Place 3 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce, covering the bottom of the dish.
-
Spread half of the shredded chicken over the noodles.
-
Pour half of the remaining white sauce over the chicken.
-
Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
-
Repeat the layers with 3 more lasagna noodles, the remaining chicken, sauce, and cheeses.
-
Top with the remaining 3 lasagna noodles and the remaining white sauce.
-
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
-
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
-
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
-
Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before serving.
