Description
Creamy White Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
3 cups milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
1 1/2 cups Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
For the Filling:
2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well!)
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For Assembly:
9-12 lasagna noodles (cooked al dente)
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded (for topping)
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.
Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
Bring to a gentle simmer and let thicken. Stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and parsley. Mix until evenly incorporated.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom.
Lay down a layer of cooked lasagna noodles. Spread a layer of chicken mixture, followed by sauce. Repeat until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of sauce on top.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake the Lasagna
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy warm!
Bon appétit!
Step-by-Step Guide
For a perfect lasagna, follow these detailed steps. First, ensure your noodles are cooked al dente and laid flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking. For the sauce, patience is key: cook the roux (butter and flour) until it turns a light golden color to eliminate the raw flour taste. When adding milk, pour in a slow, steady stream while whisking vigorously. For assembly, use a ladle to spread sauces thinly and evenly. Build your layers in this order: sauce, noodles, chicken filling, sauce. Repeat, finishing with a generous topping of sauce and cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This rich lasagna pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Serve with a crisp arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, or with garlic breadsticks. For a complete meal, add simple roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini. A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Cook noodles al dente. Make a creamy Parmesan sauce by creating a roux, whisking in milk, and adding cheese. Mix shredded chicken with ricotta, mozzarella, and parsley. In a baking dish, layer sauce, noodles, and chicken mixture. Top with more cheese. Bake covered at 375°F for 25 minutes, then uncovered until golden. Rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the lasagna, 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 no-boil lasagna noodles? Yes, but you must ensure there is enough sauce. The liquid from the sauce and fillings is crucial for the noodles to cook properly in the oven.
How can I add more vegetables? Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or artichoke hearts are excellent additions. Squeeze excess moisture from spinach before adding it to the filling.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Can I freeze this lasagna? Yes. Assemble and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed, adding extra time if needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Noodles: They will continue to cook in the oven. Mushy noodles ruin the texture.
- Rushing the Roux: Not cooking the flour and butter mixture long enough leaves a pasty taste.
- Adding Cheese to Hot Sauce Too Quickly: Remove the sauce from heat before stirring in Parmesan to prevent a grainy texture.
- Skipping the Rest Time: Cutting immediately causes the layers to slide apart. Let it set for 10 minutes.
- Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: These contain anti-caking agents that can make your sauce less smooth. Grate your own.
Conclusion
This creamy white chicken lasagna is a comforting and elegant twist on a classic. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a stunning, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and creamy texture are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!