The rich, creamy layers of chicken lasagna are a true comfort dish. The combination of perfectly cooked chicken, savory tomato sauce, and melty cheese creates an irresistible indulgence. Each bite is a mix of tender chicken, soft lasagna sheets, and gooey mozzarella, with a hint of fresh basil to top it off.
This dish is perfect for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or when you’re craving a warm, filling meal. Serve with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress everyone around the table.
Full Recipe:
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500g chicken breast (diced)
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9 lasagna sheets (pre-cooked)
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1 onion (chopped)
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2 cloves garlic (minced)
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1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
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1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 tsp dried oregano
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh basil (for garnish)
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
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In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes until softened.
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Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
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Stir in heavy cream and return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Let simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
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In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the chicken mixture on the bottom. Top with lasagna sheets, followed by more chicken mixture and mozzarella cheese.
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Repeat layers, finishing with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
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Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
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Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Chicken Lasagna: A Delicious Comfort Food
Chicken Lasagna is a twist on the classic Italian favorite, combining layers of pasta with tender chicken, a rich tomato sauce, and plenty of melty cheese. This dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or any time you’re craving a warm, hearty meal. Unlike traditional lasagna, which often uses beef or pork, chicken lasagna offers a lighter yet equally satisfying alternative. Whether you’re making it for the first time or are looking to perfect your recipe, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
The History Behind Lasagna
Lasagna has a long history, with roots tracing back to ancient Greece, where a dish called Laganon (layers of pasta and sauce) was commonly prepared. Over time, this dish evolved into what we now know as lasagna in Italy. Traditional lasagna features layers of pasta, meat (often beef or pork), cheese, and a rich tomato sauce, all baked to perfection. Over the years, people have experimented with different variations of the recipe, from vegetarian versions to seafood lasagna, and of course, chicken lasagna.
Chicken lasagna, while a relatively modern take on the classic, brings a lighter, more delicate flavor to the table, making it perfect for those who prefer white meat or want to try something different. This variation is just as delicious as its traditional counterpart, with the chicken providing a tender and juicy filling that pairs beautifully with the sauce and cheese.
Why Chicken Lasagna?
Chicken lasagna offers several advantages. First, chicken is a leaner meat compared to beef or pork, making it a healthier alternative. The mild flavor of chicken allows the other ingredients—tomato sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese—to shine through. Additionally, chicken lasagna can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, making it an ideal dish for meal prepping.
Another reason to try chicken lasagna is its versatility. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste. If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or incorporate spicy sausage with the chicken. If you like a more herbaceous flavor, toss in fresh basil or oregano. The possibilities are endless, and the dish can be adapted to meet any dietary preference or restriction.
Tips for Preparing the Perfect Chicken Lasagna
To make sure your chicken lasagna turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:
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Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: For ease and convenience, you can use rotisserie chicken or cook your chicken ahead of time. This saves time when you’re ready to assemble the lasagna.
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Don’t Overcook the Pasta: If you’re using regular lasagna noodles, make sure they don’t get overcooked. Since the lasagna will bake in the oven, you don’t want mushy pasta. Pre-cook your noodles until they’re al dente and slightly firm to the bite.
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Layer Generously: For the perfect lasagna, make sure each layer is hearty. Don’t be afraid to add extra cheese, sauce, and chicken to each layer to make the dish rich and satisfying.
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Be Creative with Cheese: While mozzarella and Parmesan are staples in lasagna, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Ricotta, provolone, or even a bit of goat cheese can add interesting flavors and textures to your dish.
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Let It Rest: Once your lasagna is done baking, let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to cut clean slices without the filling spilling out.
How to Serve Chicken Lasagna
Chicken lasagna is a hearty and filling dish, so it pairs well with simple sides that complement its flavors. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect side to balance the richness of the lasagna. If you’re looking for something with more substance, garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables can add variety to your meal. The combination of these sides with the lasagna creates a well-rounded and satisfying dinner.
For drinks, a light red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Chianti, pairs wonderfully with the acidity of the tomato sauce and the richness of the cheese. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or iced tea can also be great choices.
Chicken Lasagna Variations
One of the best things about chicken lasagna is its versatility. Here are a few variations you can try:
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White Sauce Chicken Lasagna: Instead of using a tomato-based sauce, try a creamy white sauce (béchamel) or Alfredo sauce. This version is richer and creamier, perfect for those who enjoy a more indulgent lasagna.
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Vegetable Chicken Lasagna: Add layers of sautéed vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for a nutritious boost. These vegetables add color, flavor, and extra texture to your dish.
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Spicy Chicken Lasagna: If you enjoy a little heat, add spicy sausage to your chicken lasagna or toss in some jalapeños or chili flakes for an added kick.
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Low-Carb Chicken Lasagna: For a healthier, low-carb version, substitute traditional lasagna noodles with zucchini or eggplant slices. These vegetables mimic the texture of lasagna sheets while reducing the overall carb count.
Freezing and Storing Chicken Lasagna
Chicken lasagna is a fantastic dish for meal prepping or making in bulk, as it stores well in the fridge or freezer. To store leftover lasagna, simply cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you can microwave individual portions or heat the entire dish in the oven.
For long-term storage, chicken lasagna freezes beautifully. Once assembled, cover the lasagna with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, simply add an extra 30 minutes to the cooking time. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Conclusion
Chicken lasagna is a comforting, hearty dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, preparing it for meal prep, or making it for a gathering, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings. Its rich, cheesy layers and savory chicken filling make it an irresistible comfort food, and the versatility of the recipe means you can adjust it to suit your taste. With a few simple tips, you can easily create a delicious chicken lasagna that will impress your friends and family every time.
Chicken lasagna is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a comforting and versatile dish that can be made in various ways. Whether you prefer the classic version or like to experiment with different sauces and ingredients, there’s a chicken lasagna for everyone to enjoy.
Enjoy making this dish and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones!