Description
Chicken, Mushroom, and Spinach Lasagna
Rich and hearty, this chicken-based lasagna is a satisfying dish that’s sure to impress at any gathering!
Ingredients:
9 lasagna sheets
2½ cups shredded chicken
1½ cups mushrooms
1½ cups spinach
2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups mozzarella
2 cups creamy white sauce
Preparation:
Preheat oven and boil lasagna sheets.
Sauté mushrooms, then layer with chicken, spinach, and cheeses.
Pour creamy white sauce over layers and top with mozzarella.
Bake for 35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
#HeartyChickenLasagna
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the 9 lasagna sheets in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to prevent sticking.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they have released their moisture and are golden brown. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, wilt the spinach for 1-2 minutes until just softened. Remove and set aside.
4. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt, pepper, and optional herbs like dried oregano or basil.
5. To assemble, spread a thin layer of the creamy white sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place three lasagna sheets over the sauce.
6. Layer on half of the shredded chicken, followed by half of the sautéed mushrooms and half of the spinach. Dollop half of the ricotta mixture over the vegetables and sprinkle with a third of the mozzarella.
7. Repeat the layers: sauce, pasta, remaining chicken, mushrooms, spinach, and ricotta. Top with a final layer of pasta sheets. Pour the remaining creamy white sauce evenly over the top, ensuring all edges are covered. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
This rich lasagna pairs beautifully with a simple, crisp side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving it with roasted asparagus or green beans.
How-to Summary
This lasagna is built in distinct layers for maximum flavor. The process involves cooking the pasta and vegetables, then creating alternating strata of pasta, the savory chicken and vegetable filling, creamy ricotta, and sauce. The final bake melds everything together into a cohesive, golden-brown masterpiece.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles? Yes, you can. Ensure your sauce is a bit more liquid and that the top layer of pasta is completely covered with sauce to prevent it from drying out during baking.
How can I make this dish ahead of time? Assemble the lasagna completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, you may need to add 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time.
What’s the best way to shred chicken for this recipe? Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Alternatively, poach or bake chicken breasts until cooked through, then shred with two forks.
Can I freeze chicken and mushroom lasagna? Absolutely. Assemble and bake as directed, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
How do I prevent a watery lasagna? The key is to properly sauté the mushrooms to remove their moisture and to thoroughly wilt the spinach. Letting the baked lasagna rest for 15 minutes before cutting also allows the layers to set.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the lasagna noodles before assembly, as they will continue to soften in the oven. Do not skip sautéing the mushrooms; adding them raw will release too much water into the dish. Finally, resist the urge to cut into the lasagna immediately after baking. Letting it rest is crucial for clean slices.
Conclusion
This Chicken, Mushroom, and Spinach Lasagna is a comforting, crowd-pleasing twist on a classic. By following the detailed steps and tips, you can create a perfectly layered, flavorful dish that is both impressive and deeply satisfying. It’s a versatile recipe perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
