Description
Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Lasagna
Ingredients
9 lasagna noodles (cooked and drained)
2 cups shredded chicken (cooked)
2 cups fresh broccoli florets (chopped)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese
3 cups Alfredo sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, chopped broccoli, garlic powder, onion powder, ricotta cheese, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
Spread 1/2 cup of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer 3 lasagna noodles, then add 1/3 of the chicken mixture. Top with 1/2 cup Alfredo sauce and sprinkle with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 520 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect layering and baking.
- Prep Ingredients: Cook and drain lasagna noodles. Shred cooked chicken and chop broccoli florets. Measure all cheeses and Alfredo sauce.
- Make Filling: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine shredded chicken, broccoli, ricotta, 1 cup cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble First Layer: Spread 1/2 cup Alfredo sauce in the bottom of your greased 9×13-inch dish. Place 3 noodles over the sauce.
- Build Layers: Spread 1/3 of the chicken mixture over the noodles. Drizzle with 1/2 cup Alfredo sauce, then sprinkle a mix of cheddar and mozzarella. Repeat this sequence two more times.
- Final Top Layer: After the third noodle layer, finish with the remaining Alfredo sauce and a generous topping of the remaining cheeses.
- Bake: Cover tightly with foil and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for 10-15 more minutes until golden and bubbly. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
This rich lasagna pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Serve with a crisp garden salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette is perfect for scooping up extra sauce. For a complete meal, add a simple side of roasted cherry tomatoes or steamed green beans.
How-to Summary
Combine chicken, broccoli, ricotta, and seasonings for the filling. In a baking dish, layer Alfredo sauce, noodles, the chicken filling, more sauce, and shredded cheeses. Repeat layers. Bake covered for 25 minutes, then uncovered for 10-15 minutes until golden. Rest before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, but thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid a watery lasagna. Pat it dry with paper towels before mixing.
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the lasagna, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time when cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of Alfredo sauce? A homemade bechamel sauce or a quality store-bought cheese sauce are excellent substitutes.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store covered in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the whole dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Can I use a different protein? Sure. Cooked ground turkey, Italian sausage, or even shredded rotisserie chicken are great alternatives.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking Noodles: Cook noodles to al dente; they will soften further during baking.
- Watery Filling: Ensure broccoli is dry and chicken isn’t overly moist to prevent a soggy result.
- Skipping the Rest: Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes after baking. This allows the layers to set for cleaner slices.
- Uneven Layers: Distribute the filling and sauce evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
Conclusion
This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food upgrade, combining familiar flavors in a novel, crowd-pleasing way. It’s a reliable recipe for busy weeknights or special gatherings, offering a deliciously cheesy, protein-packed meal that the whole family will love. Mastering the simple layering technique and avoiding common pitfalls ensures a perfectly baked, impressive dish every time.