Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce is a rich, comforting twist on traditional lasagna. This recipe features layers of tender chicken, creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, and a luxurious white sauce in place of the usual tomato base. It’s the perfect option for anyone looking for a creamy, decadent meal with a flavor that’s both hearty and delicate.
With a mix of fresh herbs and a hint of garlic, each bite is loaded with creamy texture and a savory, cheesy flavor that’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser at family dinners, gatherings, or even a cozy night in.
Key Ingredients & Flavor Boosters
- Chicken: Tender, shredded chicken provides a hearty base for this creamy lasagna.
- White Sauce (Béchamel): The silky sauce brings a rich, velvety texture to each layer, tying all the flavors together.
- Ricotta, Mozzarella, and Parmesan: This cheese blend creates a gooey, creamy, and slightly tangy layer that perfectly complements the chicken.
- Fresh Herbs and Garlic: Add depth and a pop of fresh flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce
1. Prepare the White Sauce – The Creamy Foundation
- In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour to form a roux. Slowly add 3 cups of milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Set aside.
2. Shred the Chicken – A Flavorful Protein Layer
- Use 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken (you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience). Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to add extra flavor.
3. Assemble the Cheesy Mixture – For Creamy Layers
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1½ cups of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, 1 egg, and a handful of chopped fresh basil or parsley.
4. Layer the Lasagna – Building the Perfect Bite
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of white sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking.
- Add a layer of lasagna noodles, followed by a layer of shredded chicken, a few spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture, and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Pour some white sauce over the layer.
- Repeat layers, finishing with a final layer of noodles, white sauce, and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan.
5. Bake to Golden Perfection
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Let It Rest and Serve
- Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce pairs wonderfully with a side of Garlic Bread and a crisp Caesar Salad. For a complete Italian-inspired meal, add a glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
Tips for the Perfect Creamy Lasagna
- Use Fresh Lasagna Noodles if Possible: They create a softer texture and absorb the sauce beautifully.
- Let the White Sauce Thicken: This helps prevent the lasagna from becoming too watery.
- Season Each Layer: A sprinkle of Italian herbs or fresh basil between layers can elevate the overall flavor.
Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce Recipe
This Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce is a luxurious twist on classic lasagna, featuring layers of tender chicken, a creamy cheese blend, and a rich white sauce. Perfect for a comforting family meal or special gathering, this lasagna is as satisfying as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- For the White Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pinch of nutmeg
- For the Lasagna
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- Salt pepper, and Italian herbs
- 1½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 egg
- Fresh basil or parsley chopped
- 12 lasagna noodles or as needed
Instructions
- Make White Sauce: Melt butter, cook garlic, whisk in flour, add milk, and cook until thick. Stir in Parmesan, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Prepare Chicken: Shred chicken and season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, egg, and fresh basil or parsley.
- Layer Lasagna: In a baking dish, layer noodles, chicken, ricotta, mozzarella, and white sauce. Repeat layers.
- Bake: Cover with foil, bake at 350°F for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake until golden.
- Serve: Let rest, slice, and serve with extra fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
For an added twist, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top for a touch of heat.