Introduction
The White Cheese Chicken Lasagna is a culinary masterpiece that combines the creamy, rich flavors of cheese with the tender juiciness of chicken, all layered between sheets of pasta. This dish is a twist on the traditional lasagna, offering a white sauce base that brings a delightful change to the table. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or simply when the craving for comfort food strikes, this lasagna is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- ½ cup butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups cubed, cooked chicken meat
- 2 (10 ounce) packages frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Directions
1️⃣ Preheat Oven: Start by warming your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C), setting the stage for baking.
2️⃣ Cook Noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles in lightly salted water until al dente, then drain and rinse to halt the cooking process.
3️⃣ Prepare Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, adding onion and garlic until tender. Blend in flour, then gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, adding salt. Incorporate 2 cups of mozzarella and ¼ cup of Parmesan until melted, seasoning with basil, oregano, and pepper.
4️⃣ Assemble Lasagna: In a 9×13-inch dish, layer sauce, noodles, ricotta, chicken, more noodles, sauce, spinach, remaining mozzarella and Parmesan, and finish with a layer of noodles, sauce, parsley, and Parmesan.
5️⃣ Bake: Cook in the preheated oven until the cheese is bubbly and golden, about 35 to 40 minutes.
Notes and Tips
- For an even richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce.
- Ensure the spinach is thoroughly drained to prevent the lasagna from becoming watery.
- Let the lasagna sit for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.
Nutritional Information & Health Benefits
Nutrition Details
- Serving: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Vitamin D: Significant
- Calcium: High
- Iron: Moderate
This lasagna is not only a feast for the senses but also offers nutritional benefits. The chicken provides a high-quality source of protein, while the spinach adds fiber and vitamins. The cheeses contribute calcium for bone health, making this dish both indulgent and nourishing.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen? A: Absolutely! Fresh spinach can be used; just ensure it’s wilted and drained of excess moisture before adding.
Q: Can this lasagna be made ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
Q: Is there a gluten-free option? A: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free lasagna noodles and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
White Cheese Chicken Lasagna stands as a testament to the comfort and joy good food can bring into our lives. It’s a dish that warms the heart and soothes the soul, perfect for gathering around the table with loved ones. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this lasagna promises to deliver satisfaction in every bite, proving that sometimes, the simplest pleasures in life are the most rewarding.