Craving a comforting meal that’s easy to make but oh-so-satisfying? Look no further than our Simple Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce. Layers of tender lasagna noodles, savory chicken, gooey mozzarella, and creamy white sauce come together in this irresistible dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Join us on a culinary journey as we explore this classic recipe, complete with FAQs, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions!
Ingredients:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups white sauce (béchamel sauce)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the White Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until golden brown and fragrant. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of white sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Top with a layer of cooked chicken, followed by a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with a final layer of white sauce and cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the foil from the baking dish and let the lasagna cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired, then slice and serve hot. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add layers of sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian lasagna.
- Herbaceous Twist: Mix chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme into the white sauce for added flavor.
- Spice it Up: For a kick of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the white sauce before layering.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: Replace the lasagna noodles with thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant for a low-carb alternative. Use a keto-friendly white sauce made with almond flour and heavy cream instead of milk and flour.
- Low-Carb Option: Reduce the number of lasagna noodles and use a combination of almond flour and coconut flour for the white sauce to lower the carb content. Choose a lower-carb cheese such as Gouda or Swiss for the topping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for this recipe? A: Yes, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works well and saves time. Simply shred or dice the chicken before assembling the lasagna.
Q: Can I make the white sauce ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can prepare the white sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove before using.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover lasagna in individual portions for easy reheating later. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I add additional vegetables to the lasagna? A: Of course! Feel free to customize the lasagna with your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli for added flavor and nutrition.
Q: What can I serve with Chicken Lasagna? A: This lasagna pairs well with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Add a glass of your favorite wine for the perfect finishing touch!
Indulge in the creamy richness of our Simple Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its layers of flavor and comforting texture. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal on the table in no time. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of cheesy goodness that will leave everyone coming back for seconds!
