Indulge in this scrumptious chicken lasagna recipe that brings a comforting twist to the classic dish. With layers of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty marinara sauce, this recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Get ready to impress your guests with a homemade lasagna that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this delightful meal!
Ingredients
– 12 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 4 cups marinara sauce
– 1 egg
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is about 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 350 calories, 25g protein, 15g fat, 32g carbohydrates, and 3g fiber. This is based on a standard serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
5. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish.
6. Place 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
7. Layer half of the shredded chicken over the noodles.
8. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the chicken.
9. Add a layer of marinara sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
10. Repeat the layers, finishing with noodles, marinara sauce, and remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the chicken with turkey or a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian option. Additionally, low-fat cheeses can be used to reduce calories without compromising flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Serve this chicken lasagna with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine also complements the flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze lasagna before baking for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not cooking the noodles long enough can lead to a chewy texture.
- Overfilling layers can cause the lasagna to overflow while baking.
- Skipping the resting time after baking can result in a messy cut.
- Using too much sauce can make the dish soggy.
- Not greasing the dish properly may lead to sticking.
Helpful Tips
- Use a mix of cheeses for enhanced flavor.
- Let the lasagna cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
- For extra flavor, add Italian herbs to the sauce.
- Cover with foil for the first half of baking to prevent over-browning.
FAQs
Can I make chicken lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What type of chicken should I use?
You can use rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or boiled chicken. Shredded or diced works best for layering.
Can I freeze chicken lasagna?
Absolutely! You can freeze it before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will keep for about 3 months.
How do I prevent the lasagna from being watery?
Make sure to drain excess liquid from the marinara sauce and avoid over-saucing the layers. Using a thicker sauce can also help.
Is it okay to use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Yes, no-boil noodles are a convenient option. Just follow the package instructions for best results.
Conclusion
This chicken lasagna recipe is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, it’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. With its rich layers of chicken, cheese, and sauce, this lasagna is sure to become a new favorite in your home. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Chicken Lasagna
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish.
- Place 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Layer half of the shredded chicken over the noodles.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the chicken.
- Add a layer of marinara sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with noodles, marinara sauce, and remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.