Description
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna
This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna is a delicious twist on a classic favorite. Layers of tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and gooey cheese make this the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prepping for the week!
Ingredients
:
For the lasagna:
9 lasagna noodles, cooked
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
3 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
:
Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, 1 cup Alfredo sauce, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Assemble the lasagna:
Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
Lay down 3 cooked lasagna noodles. Top with 1/3 of the chicken mixture, followed by a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers two more times, ending with a generous layer of cheese on top.
Bake the lasagna:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Garnish and serve:
Let the lasagna cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve warm.
Pro Tips:
Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
Serve with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal.
This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna is a hearty and satisfying dish that everyone will love. It’s easy to make and even easier to devour. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect layering and baking. First, ensure your lasagna noodles are cooked al dente and laid flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking. For the chicken mixture, thoroughly combine the ricotta, chicken, and Alfredo sauce to create a uniform, spreadable filling. When assembling, use a ladle to spread the thin base layer of Alfredo sauce. For each noodle layer, spoon and spread the chicken mixture evenly to the edges. Sprinkle cheeses uniformly. The final top layer should be a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for optimal browning.
Serving Suggestions
This rich lasagna pairs beautifully with light, acidic sides to balance the creaminess. Serve with a crisp arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, or steamed green beans with garlic. For a classic pairing, offer warm, buttery garlic bread or focaccia. A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay complements the dish perfectly.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Cook noodles al dente. Mix shredded chicken with ricotta, 1 cup Alfredo sauce, and seasonings. In a greased 9×13 dish, layer: sauce, noodles, chicken mixture, and shredded cheeses. Repeat twice. Top with remaining cheese. Bake covered at 375°F for 20 minutes, then uncovered for 15 minutes until golden. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
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 ensure there is ample sauce surrounding them. You may need to add a 1/4 cup of water or broth to the sauce for moisture.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container 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 substitute the chicken? Certainly. Diced cooked turkey, sautéed shrimp, or even roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers make excellent alternatives.
Why did my lasagna turn out watery? Excess moisture often comes from wet ricotta, under-cooked noodles, or watery Alfredo sauce. Ensure your ricotta is well-drained, noodles are patted dry, and sauce is thick.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid over-saucing the bottom layer, which can make the base soggy. Do not skip letting the lasagna rest after baking; this allows the layers to set for cleaner slices. Using cheese that’s pre-grated from a bag can result in less meltiness due to anti-caking agents; freshly grated is best. Finally, do not overcook the noodles, as they will continue to soften while baking.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna masterfully combines comforting flavors in a crowd-pleasing format. By following the detailed steps and tips, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a stunning, restaurant-quality dish at home. It’s a versatile recipe perfect for both special occasions and reliable weeknight dinners, guaranteed to earn a permanent spot in your culinary repertoire.