Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna is a comforting, hearty dish that puts a unique twist on the traditional lasagna recipe. Instead of the classic meat and marinara, this version combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, creamy white sauce, and layers of lasagna noodles to create a satisfying and delicious meal. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prepping for the week. The combination of cheesy, creamy sauce with flavorful chicken and nutritious broccoli makes this dish both tasty and nutritious.
In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step through the process of making Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna while offering tips for perfecting this dish, variations to suit your taste, and nutritional information.
The Origin of Lasagna
Lasagna is a traditional Italian dish, with its roots dating back to Ancient Rome. The term “lasagna” originally referred to the pot in which the dish was cooked. Over time, it evolved into the layered pasta dish that we know and love today. In the classic version, ground meat, tomato sauce, and cheese are layered between sheets of pasta. However, like many Italian dishes, lasagna has been adapted in various ways around the world, with different ingredients and flavors being added to create new versions, such as this chicken and broccoli variation.
Ingredients for Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna
To make this creamy and delicious lasagna, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken Breasts: 2 large, cooked and shredded (you can also use rotisserie chicken)
- Broccoli: 2 cups, chopped into bite-sized florets
- Lasagna Noodles: 9-12 sheets (depending on your baking dish size)
- Ricotta Cheese: 1 1/2 cups
- Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups, shredded
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons
- Milk: 2 1/2 cups (whole or 2% for a richer sauce)
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Fresh Parsley: For garnish (optional)
Ingredient Notes
- Chicken: You can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or quickly cook and shred chicken breasts for this recipe. Either method works well and ensures the chicken is tender and flavorful.
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets work best, but you can use frozen broccoli if necessary. Be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the lasagna.
- Cheese: Ricotta and mozzarella are key to giving the lasagna its creamy texture, while Parmesan adds a savory touch to the white sauce.
How to Make Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna
Step 1: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
- Boil the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Once cooked, drain the noodles and lay them flat on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Broccoli: While the noodles are cooking, blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Season and Cook: If you’re not using rotisserie chicken, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, and cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, until fully cooked through. Shred the chicken with a fork once it’s cool enough to handle.
Step 3: Make the White Sauce
- Melt the Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the Roux: Add the flour to the butter and garlic, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add the Milk: Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in Parmesan: Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
- Spread Sauce in Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the white sauce on the bottom.
- Layer the Ingredients: Begin layering the lasagna:
- Add a layer of lasagna noodles.
- Spread a layer of ricotta cheese over the noodles.
- Add a layer of shredded chicken and broccoli.
- Pour some of the white sauce over the chicken and broccoli.
- Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers, ending with a final layer of lasagna noodles, white sauce, and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake the Lasagna
- Bake: Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and Brown the Cheese: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
Allow the lasagna to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve with a side salad or garlic bread.
Tips for Perfect Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly cooked chicken and broccoli will give your lasagna the best flavor. However, using frozen broccoli or pre-cooked chicken in a pinch will still yield delicious results.
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Blanching the broccoli ensures it stays bright green and slightly crisp, so it doesn’t become mushy during baking.
- Let the Lasagna Rest: Letting the lasagna rest after baking allows it to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
Variations of Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna
Spinach and Chicken Lasagna
For an extra layer of vegetables, add fresh spinach to the lasagna. Simply sauté the spinach in a little olive oil and garlic, then layer it between the chicken and broccoli for a boost of greens.
Chicken Alfredo Lasagna
To make this dish even creamier, use a rich Alfredo sauce instead of the white sauce. Alfredo sauce adds extra cheesiness and depth to the lasagna, giving it a luxurious texture.
Gluten-Free Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply swap out the regular lasagna noodles for gluten-free noodles. Ensure your flour for the white sauce is also gluten-free, or substitute with cornstarch.
Nutritional Information for Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna
Below is an estimate of the nutritional information per serving (based on 8 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
| Calcium | 320 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
This dish is a hearty, balanced meal, offering a good source of protein from the chicken and cheese, fiber from the broccoli, and essential vitamins and minerals. For a lighter option, you can use low-fat dairy products or reduce the amount of cheese in the recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread for a classic Italian-style dinner.
- Green Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the lasagna.
- Steamed Vegetables: For a healthier side, serve with steamed asparagus, green beans, or zucchini.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and bake when ready.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the lasagna for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F until warmed through.
Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan are traditional, you can experiment with cheeses like cheddar, Gouda, or Fontina for a different flavor profile.
Is Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna healthy?
This dish provides a balance of protein, carbs, and fats, with the added benefit of broccoli for fiber and vitamins. For a lighter version, consider using whole wheat lasagna noodles, low-fat ricotta, and reducing the amount of cheese.
Conclusion
Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna is a comforting, flavorful twist on a classic dish. With layers of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, creamy ricotta, and a delicious homemade white sauce, it’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep. Whether you’re a lasagna lover looking for something new or simply in need of a hearty, delicious meal, this dish is sure to be a hit.
If you tried this recipe, we’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your tips, variations, or any fun additions you made in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family—it’s perfect for any occasion.