White Cheese Chicken Lasagna Recipe

If you are craving a creamy, comforting, and utterly satisfying meal, this White Cheese Chicken Lasagna Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Rich layers of tender chicken, silky spinach, and luscious white cheese sauce meld perfectly between sheets of al dente noodles, creating a lasagna that’s both elegant enough for guests and cozy enough for a family dinner. This dish brings together the lovely tang of Parmesan and the gooey stretch of mozzarella with a fragrant mix of herbs, delivering a delightful twist on traditional lasagna that everyone will rave about. Trust me, once you try this White Cheese Chicken Lasagna Recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how a handful of well-chosen ingredients can create such a stunning dish. Each item here plays a crucial role: from the creamy white sauce that envelopes the layers, to the perfectly cooked chicken adding savory depth, and the spinach bringing a fresh, vibrant note. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to whip up this delicious White Cheese Chicken Lasagna Recipe.

• 9 lasagna noodles: The sturdy, yet tender base that holds all the delicious layers together beautifully.
• ½ cup butter: Essential for creating that smooth, velvety white sauce, giving it richness and body.
• 1 onion, chopped: Adds gentle sweetness and depth to the sauce when sautéed.
• 1 clove garlic, minced: A subtle burst of aromatic flavor that wakes up the whole dish.
• ½ cup all-purpose flour: The thickening agent that helps turn butter into a creamy white sauce.
• 2 cups chicken broth: Contributes savory undertones and balances the creaminess.
• 1 ½ cups milk: Provides creaminess and softness to the sauce, making it perfectly smooth.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering.
• 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Brings gooey, melty texture and mild cheesiness.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided: Adds sharp, nutty notes that cut through the richness.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: An herbaceous hint that pairs wonderfully with chicken and cheese.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Complements the basil and adds Mediterranean flair.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: For a mild peppery warmth that awakens the palate.
• 2 cups ricotta cheese: Creamy and fluffy, this adds lusciousness to the filling.
• 2 cups cubed, cooked chicken meat: Tender and protein-packed, it’s the star protein here.
• 2 (10-ounce) packages frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained: Offers vibrant color and a vegetal brightness to balance richness.
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: A fresh, herbal garnish to brighten the final presentation.

How to Make White Cheese Chicken Lasagna Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

First things first, gather all of your ingredients so you have everything at your fingertips. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your lasagna cooks evenly and beautifully once it’s assembled. Taking the time to prep beforehand makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Step 2: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. The gentle salting adds flavor directly to the noodles, which is a small but important detail. Boil the lasagna noodles for 8 to 10 minutes, just until they become al dente – tender but still firm to the bite. Drain them carefully and rinse with cold water to halt the cooking and prevent them from sticking together later.

Step 3: Make the White Sauce

This is where the magic happens. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt your butter and then add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion softens and turns translucent, releasing its natural sweetness. Whisk in the flour and let it cook for about 2 minutes to get rid of that raw flour taste and build a slight golden hue. Gradually stir in the chicken broth, milk, and salt, whisking continuously to keep the sauce perfectly smooth. When the sauce thickens, stir in 2 cups mozzarella and ¼ cup Parmesan cheese until melted. Finish by adding basil, oregano, and black pepper for that lovely herby aroma before removing the pan from the heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

The layering is key to a flawless lasagna. Start by spreading one-third of your luscious white sauce evenly in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish—that sauce acts as the glue holding everything together and keeps the noodles from drying out. Layer three lasagna noodles over the sauce, then dollop on the ricotta cheese and scatter the cooked chicken evenly on top. Add your next three noodles, then spread another third of the sauce across, followed by the drained spinach, 2 cups of mozzarella, and half a cup of Parmesan. Finish layering with the remaining three noodles and cover them with the last third of the white sauce. Sprinkle fresh parsley and the final ¼ cup of Parmesan over the top to create an irresistible golden crust.

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna

Cover your dish tightly with foil to keep the moisture in and bake for 35 to 40 minutes in your preheated oven. This melting and melding time lets the flavors harmonize into cheesy, creamy perfection. Once baked, let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows it to firm up a bit, so your servings hold their shape beautifully when plated.

How to Serve White Cheese Chicken Lasagna Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a lovely pop of color but also brightens the rich, cheesy flavors with a fresh herbal note. You can also add a few shavings of Parmesan right before serving for an elegant touch and extra cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

This White Cheese Chicken Lasagna Recipe pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The crispness and acidity of the salad provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy, cheesy layers. Garlic bread or warm Italian breadsticks are also perfect if you want to keep things cozy and indulgent.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style dinner, serve the lasagna in the baking dish so everyone can help themselves to generous, comforting portions. For a more formal presentation, cut neat squares and plate each slice with a drizzle of extra sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a restaurant-worthy appearance that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your feast, store any remaining White Cheese Chicken Lasagna Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 to 4 days, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.

Freezing

This lasagna freezes beautifully. To freeze, wrap it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can remain frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your lasagna in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, heating it for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. For a quicker option, microwave individual portions, but keep in mind the oven will help maintain the texture and flavor best.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If using fresh spinach, sauté it lightly until wilted and then drain any excess moisture. This will prevent your lasagna from becoming watery.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to keep it hearty and delicious without meat.

Can I prepare the White Cheese Chicken Lasagna Recipe ahead of time?

Definitely. You can assemble the lasagna the day before and refrigerate it, then bake it fresh when you are ready to enjoy. This makes for great meal prep or entertaining ease.

What if I don’t have both mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses?

Using just mozzarella will still give you great cheesiness, but Parmesan adds a sharp flavor that balances richness beautifully. If you only have one, go with mozzarella and consider adding a little extra salt and herbs to compensate.

Can I use store-bought white sauce to save time?

You can, but the homemade white sauce in this recipe really elevates the dish with fresh flavors and perfect consistency. If you’re pressed for time, store-bought works as a convenient shortcut.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this White Cheese Chicken Lasagna Recipe a try because it’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Creamy, cheesy, and full of wholesome chicken and spinach, it has the perfect balance of comforting flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. So grab your apron, and get ready for some heartwarming, cheesy delight!

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