Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce

 

Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce

This rich and cheesy chicken lasagna with white sauce is a comforting twist on the classic lasagna. It features layers of tender chicken, a creamy béchamel sauce, and gooey melted cheese.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Filling:

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 1 cup baby spinach or mushrooms (optional, for extra flavor)

For the White Sauce (Béchamel):

• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp flour
• 3 cups milk (warm)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (for extra creaminess, optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

For Assembly:

• 12 lasagna noodles, cooked
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley, for garnish

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Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until soft, about 2 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic, then add shredded chicken, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. (Optional) Add spinach or mushrooms and cook until soft. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the White Sauce

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually whisk in warm milk and cook until thickened.
4. Add salt, pepper, nutmeg, and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a thin layer of white sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
3. Layer 3 cooked lasagna noodles on top.
4. Spread a portion of the chicken filling, followed by ricotta cheese (if using), white sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
5. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of white sauce and cheese.

Step 4: Bake

1. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
2. Remove foil and bake for 10-15 minutes more, until golden brown.
3. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

• Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm!

Would you like any substitutions or additional flavors?