Directions:
Preheat Oven & Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish, setting the stage for your lasagna layers.
Sauté the Onion & Garlic
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant.
Add the Chicken
Stir in the shredded chicken and warm it through with the onions and garlic. Once it’s well mixed, set this mixture aside for later.
Make the Ricotta Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup Parmesan, egg, and fresh basil and parsley. Season generously with salt and pepper, and mix well until smooth and creamy.
Layer the Lasagna
Spread a thin layer of béchamel or Alfredo sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Lay 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then layer half of the chicken mixture on top, followed by 1 cup mozzarella and a third of the remaining béchamel sauce.
Repeat the layering: add another layer of noodles, followed by the remaining ricotta mixture, the remaining chicken, another cup of mozzarella, and another third of the béchamel sauce.
Final Layer
Place the final 3 noodles on top.
Spread the last third of the béchamel sauce over the noodles.
Top with the remaining mozzarella and sprinkle the last 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese. For extra flavor, you can add a sprinkle of nutmeg if you like.
Bake the Lasagna
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Let It Rest
Once done, let the lasagna sit for 10 minutes to allow the layers to set before slicing and serving.
Variations & Tips:
Cheese Variations: Feel free to play with different cheeses. Smoked provolone can add a rich depth, while Gruyère brings a nutty warmth. For extra creaminess, try adding a bit more ricotta or even mascarpone.
Vegetarian Option: For a twist, skip the chicken and add roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for a flavorful vegetarian lasagna.
Béchamel or Alfredo?: If you want to take the extra step, make a homemade béchamel sauce with butter, flour, milk, and a dash of nutmeg. Alternatively, you can use store-bought Alfredo sauce for a quicker option—just be sure to choose a quality brand.
Herb Love: Fresh herbs like basil and parsley brighten the dish, so don’t be shy about adding a little extra to the layers.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Creamy Chicken Lasagna with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the dish.
Pair it with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to mop up all that creamy sauce.
A side of steamed veggies or a medley of roasted vegetables makes for a colorful and nutritious meal.
A Family Favorite
This Creamy Chicken Lasagna has quickly become a staple in our household. The layers of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and melted cheese come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and filling. My kids loved it, and there’s always something special about enjoying leftovers the next morning!
Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing it for a gathering, this lasagna is sure to please. Simple yet indulgent, it’s a recipe that brings people together, bite by delicious bite!
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