Chicken Lasagna

Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, but have you ever tried chicken lasagna? This delicious twist on the classic dish swaps out ground beef for tender, juicy chicken, creating a lighter yet equally satisfying meal. Layered with creamy béchamel sauce, gooey cheese, and perfectly seasoned chicken, this dish brings a unique and mouthwatering spin to the beloved Italian favorite.

The beauty of chicken lasagna lies in its versatility. You can make it creamy and rich with a white sauce or go for a more traditional tomato-based version. Either way, the layers of pasta, cheese, and savory chicken meld together to create an irresistible dish that will have your family asking for seconds. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Lasagna

There’s something incredibly satisfying about homemade lasagna, and when it’s made with chicken, it brings a whole new flavor profile that you’ll absolutely love. Instead of the heavy richness of beef, chicken provides a lighter yet equally savory bite, making this dish a fantastic alternative if you’re looking to switch things up in your pasta rotation.

One of the biggest reasons to fall in love with chicken lasagna is its balance of textures and flavors. The tender shredded or diced chicken soaks up the sauce beautifully, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. The creamy béchamel or white sauce adds a luscious, velvety consistency, while the gooey, melted mozzarella and Parmesan create the ultimate cheesy indulgence. Every layer is a bite of pure joy!

Beyond taste, this dish is also a great way to use up leftover chicken. If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken from a previous meal, this lasagna is an excellent way to repurpose it into something new and exciting. Plus, it’s a freezer-friendly dish, so you can make it ahead of time and have a delicious, homemade meal ready to go whenever you need it.

Preparation Time and Yield

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 8 servings

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 420
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 32g
Fat: 16g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 5g

Ingredients for Chicken Lasagna

For the Chicken Mixture:

2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup tomato sauce (for a red-based lasagna)

For the White Sauce (Béchamel):

3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for extra depth)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for extra creaminess)

For Assembling the Lasagna:

12 lasagna sheets (pre-cooked or no-boil)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 egg (to mix with ricotta for creaminess)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Lasagna

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the shredded chicken, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to coat the chicken with the seasonings.
Pour in the tomato sauce (if making a red sauce lasagna) and mix everything together. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the White Sauce (Béchamel)

In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1–2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue stirring as the sauce thickens.
Add the nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. If you want an extra creamy sauce, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese at this stage.
Once the sauce reaches a smooth, thick consistency, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a small bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with one beaten egg and chopped parsley. This will help make the ricotta layer creamy and prevent it from drying out during baking.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the white sauce to prevent sticking.
Arrange a layer of lasagna sheets over the sauce.
Spread a portion of the chicken mixture evenly over the pasta.
Spoon some ricotta mixture on top and spread it gently.
Pour a layer of the white sauce over the ricotta, ensuring even coverage.
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the layer.
Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a top layer of pasta, white sauce, and a final sprinkle of cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together without the top burning.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Let the lasagna rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set for perfect slices.

Ingredient Background

Every ingredient in chicken lasagna plays a crucial role in creating its delicious, comforting flavors. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the key components that make this dish so special.

Chicken: The Star of the Dish

Unlike traditional beef lasagna, chicken lasagna uses tender, shredded or diced chicken for a lighter, leaner protein option. Chicken is a fantastic source of protein, providing essential amino acids that support muscle growth and repair. It also absorbs flavors beautifully, making it an ideal choice for a richly seasoned dish like lasagna. Whether you use rotisserie chicken, boiled chicken, or even grilled leftovers, this ingredient is what sets this dish apart from the classic beef version.

The Magic of Béchamel Sauce

The béchamel sauce (also known as white sauce) brings a creamy, smooth consistency to this lasagna. Made from a simple roux (butter and flour) combined with milk, béchamel acts as a luxurious binder that holds all the layers together. Some versions also incorporate a bit of nutmeg, which adds a subtle warmth and depth to the dish. When paired with chicken, this sauce creates a velvety texture that makes every bite incredibly satisfying.

Cheese Trio: Ricotta, Mozzarella, and Parmesan

Lasagna wouldn’t be the same without cheese, and chicken lasagna is no exception. Ricotta cheese adds a creamy and slightly tangy layer, while mozzarella melts into stretchy, gooey perfection. The Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top brings a salty, nutty contrast that enhances all the other flavors. This trio of cheeses creates the ultimate cheesy experience that makes lasagna such a beloved dish.

Technique Tips for Chicken Lasagna

Perfecting chicken lasagna requires more than just following the steps—it’s all about technique. These expert tips will help you achieve restaurant-quality results right at home.

Shred the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

One of the best ways to ensure a well-balanced, flavorful lasagna is to shred the chicken instead of dicing it. Shredded chicken absorbs sauces much better, preventing dry bites and keeping the layers rich and moist. You can use a fork, hand mixer, or even a food processor to shred your cooked chicken quickly.

Let the Lasagna Rest Before Slicing

One of the biggest mistakes people make is cutting into lasagna immediately after baking. While it’s tempting to dive right in, letting it rest for at least 10–15 minutes helps the layers set. This prevents the lasagna from falling apart when you slice it, ensuring neat and even portions.

Layer Strategically for the Best Texture

A common layering mistake is using too much sauce at once. Instead of drowning the lasagna in sauce, aim for thin, even layers to prevent sogginess. Start with a small amount of sauce on the bottom, then add pasta, chicken, ricotta, more sauce, and cheese. Repeat until all ingredients are used, making sure the top is generously covered with mozzarella for that golden, bubbly finish.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

There’s no single way to serve chicken lasagna—why not get creative and try some unique presentations? Here are some fun and unexpected ways to enjoy this dish.

Individual Chicken Lasagna Cups

Instead of a traditional casserole dish, try making lasagna in muffin tins! Use small, round pieces of lasagna noodles to layer the ingredients into each cup, then bake until golden. These individual portions are perfect for parties or meal prep and offer a fun, bite-sized twist on the classic.

Skillet Chicken Lasagna

Want to make lasagna but don’t have time to layer everything? Try making a skillet lasagna instead! Cook your chicken mixture and sauce in a large skillet, break up lasagna sheets into smaller pieces, and let them simmer together until soft. Add cheese on top and cover until melted—voila! A quick and easy one-pan version of this delicious dish.

Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups

For a more elegant presentation, consider making lasagna roll-ups. Instead of layering, spread ricotta and chicken mixture onto each lasagna sheet, roll them up, and place them seam-side down in a baking dish. Cover with sauce and cheese, then bake until bubbly. This method makes serving and portion control much easier!

Freezing and Storing Chicken Lasagna

Lasagna is one of the best dishes for meal prepping and storing. Whether you’re saving leftovers or making an extra batch for later, here’s how to do it right.

Refrigerating Leftovers

If you plan to eat your chicken lasagna within the next few days, simply cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

Freezing a Whole Lasagna

For long-term storage, you can freeze an entire lasagna before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 1 hour, covering with foil for the first 45 minutes.

Freezing Individual Portions

If you prefer grab-and-go meals, freeze lasagna in individual slices. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. This way, you can thaw and reheat single portions without having to defrost the entire dish.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Want to make chicken lasagna healthier? Here are some easy swaps to lighten it up without losing flavor.

Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta

Traditional lasagna noodles are delicious, but for a healthier option, try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. These options add fiber and make the dish more nutritious while keeping the same satisfying texture.

Swap Heavy Dairy for Lighter Alternatives

Instead of full-fat ricotta and mozzarella, use low-fat or part-skim versions. You can also swap out béchamel sauce for Greek yogurt to maintain creaminess while reducing fat content.

Add More Veggies

Boost the nutritional value by adding layers of spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. These ingredients blend seamlessly into the dish and provide extra vitamins and fiber without altering the flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Chicken lasagna is a fantastic dish for various occasions. Here’s how to serve it for different events.

Family Dinners

Nothing beats a warm, homemade lasagna for a cozy family dinner. Pair it with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Potlucks and Gatherings

Lasagna is perfect for potlucks because it’s easy to transport and can be made ahead of time. Bake it in a disposable aluminum tray and keep it warm until serving. It’s always a crowd favorite!

Romantic Date Night

Want a special dinner for two? Serve chicken lasagna with a side of roasted vegetables and a light soup for a cozy, restaurant-style meal at home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use uncooked chicken in lasagna?
No, it’s best to use pre-cooked shredded or diced chicken for even cooking.
Can I make chicken lasagna without ricotta?
Yes! Substitute cottage cheese or an extra layer of béchamel sauce.
How do I prevent watery lasagna?
Make sure your sauce isn’t too thin, and let the lasagna rest before slicing.
Can I make this lasagna vegetarian?
Yes! Swap chicken for mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables.
What’s the best cheese for lasagna?
Mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan create the best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Chicken lasagna is a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or prepping meals ahead of time, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it out, experiment with variations, and enjoy a delicious homemade meal that everyone will love!