Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce
Indulge in a comforting and decadent dish that will satisfy your cravings – Creamy Chicken Lasaga with White Sauce! This recipe is perfect for weekend dinners or special occasions, guaranteed to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour until well combined.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
- Add the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the sauce, then remove from heat.
- To assemble the lasagna, spread a layer of white sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
- Layer with 3 lasagna noodles, followed by chicken, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Popular questions:
- Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?
- Can I substitute the chicken for other meat?
- Can I add vegetables to the lasagna?
- Can I prepare the lasagna ahead of time?
- Can I freeze leftover lasagna?
Yes, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can save you time and add extra flavor to the lasagna.
Yes, you can use cooked ground beef or turkey instead of chicken for a different variation.
Yes, feel free to add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the layers for extra nutrients.
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it overnight before baking for a quick and easy meal prep option.
Yes, you can freeze individual portions of lasagna for future quick meals. Just thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Helpful tips:
- Season the white sauce generously with salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor of the lasagna.
- Top the lasagna with fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving for a burst of freshness.
- Add a layer of ricotta cheese between the lasagna noodles for extra creaminess.
- Try using a blend of different cheeses like fontina or Gruyere for a more complex flavor profile.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese in the recipe.
Expert Secrets:
- Cook the lasagna noodles until al dente to prevent them from becoming too mushy during baking.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to allow the layers to set and make slicing easier.
- For a golden brown crust, broil the lasagna for a few minutes after baking until desired color is achieved.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture in the dish.
- Make sure to evenly spread the white sauce in each layer to ensure a creamy and well-coated lasagna.