Description
Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Ingredients:
9 lasagna noodles (cooked and drained)
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
2 cups chopped, steamed broccoli
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cups ricotta cheese
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups milk
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Whisk in flour and cook for another minute.
Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until the sauce thickens.
Stir in cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until melted and smooth.
Assemble the Lasagna:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of cheese sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
Layer 3 cooked lasagna noodles, followed by chicken, broccoli, a layer of ricotta cheese, and cheese sauce.
Repeat layers, finishing with noodles and the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake:
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Garnish & Serve:
Let it cool for 10 minutes.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve.
Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor!
#BroccoliCheddarLasagna #ComfortFood #CheesyDelight
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect lasagna. First, ensure your chicken is fully cooked and shredded, and your broccoli is chopped and steamed until just tender. Cook the lasagna noodles to al dente, as they will soften further during baking. For the sauce, melt the butter over medium heat, sauté the garlic until fragrant, then whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook for one full minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps, and cook until the mixture coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat before stirring in the cheddar cheese, allowing residual heat to melt it smoothly. When assembling, use a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread a thin base of sauce to prevent sticking. Layer components evenly, pressing down gently on the ricotta layers to create a cohesive structure.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and hearty lasagna is a complete meal on its own. For a balanced plate, serve it with a simple side salad of mixed greens tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for scooping up any extra cheese sauce. For a lighter accompaniment, consider roasted asparagus or a fresh fruit salad. Leftovers reheat beautifully for lunch the next day.
How-to Summary
In summary, this dish involves preparing a creamy cheddar cheese sauce, then layering it with cooked noodles, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, and ricotta cheese. The assembled lasagna is baked covered, then uncovered until golden and bubbly. The key steps are making a smooth cheese sauce and building even layers for the best texture and flavor distribution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the lasagna completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, but ensure it is completely thawed and thoroughly drained to avoid a watery lasagna. Pat it dry with paper towels before using.
What can I use instead of ricotta? Cottage cheese (small curd) or a mixture of cream cheese thinned with a little milk are excellent substitutes for a similar creamy texture.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the baking dish with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Can I freeze this lasagna? Yes. After assembling, wrap the unbaked dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results: Do not overcook the noodles, as they will become mushy during baking. Ensure your cheese sauce is thick enough before assembling; a runny sauce will make the lasagna soggy. Do not skip letting the lasagna rest for 10 minutes after baking; this allows the layers to set for cleaner slices. Finally, avoid using pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents if possible, as it does not melt as smoothly as cheese you shred yourself.
Conclusion
This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, masterfully combining familiar flavors into a satisfying, cheesy bake. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that is impressive enough for company yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner. By following the detailed guide and tips provided, you can avoid common errors and create a perfectly layered, creamy, and delicious meal that everyone will love. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!