If you are searching for a comforting crowd-pleaser that combines creamy richness, tender chicken, and vibrant greens, this Creamy Chicken Spinach Lasagna Recipe is about to become your new kitchen favorite. Layers of tender lasagna noodles soaked in a luscious spinach cream sauce, loaded with shredded chicken and melty cheeses, create a dish that’s truly irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels luxurious yet approachable, perfectly marrying texture and flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this creamy, satisfying lasagna, you only need a handful of essential ingredients that balance each other beautifully. Each element plays a key role in bringing texture, depth, and fresh color to the dish, making it as delicious as it is visually appealing.
- Lasagna noodles: Cooked al dente for the perfect tender-chewy texture that holds up under layers of sauce and cheese.
- Shredded rotisserie chicken: Offers tender, juicy protein convenience or swap with cooked chicken breast if preferred.
- Olive oil: For sautéing the onions gently, bringing out their natural sweetness.
- Onion: Adds a savory base flavor, finely chopped to blend seamlessly into the sauce.
- Unsalted butter: Creates a rich base for the creamy white sauce, enhancing smoothness.
- All-purpose flour: Used to thicken the creamy spinach sauce just right.
- Chicken broth: Infuses the sauce with savory meatiness and extra depth.
- Half and half: Or a mixture of heavy cream and milk for that perfectly balanced creaminess.
- Fresh spinach: Provides freshness, color, and a nutrient boost, coarsely chopped for texture.
- Sea salt and black pepper: Seasoning essentials to brighten up every layer.
- Garlic: Minced for a fragrant kick that harmonizes with the creamy sauce and chicken.
- Ricotta cheese: Offers a luscious texture and subtle tang, vital for the signature creaminess.
- Egg: Binds the cheese mixture, contributing to structure and richness.
- Parsley: Fresh and chopped, it adds a bright herbal note and beautiful flecks of green.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated for a salty, nutty burst that uplifts the flavors stunningly.
- Mozzarella cheese: Shredded and layered for gooey, melty indulgence that unites the whole dish.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Spinach Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Basics
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process, then set aside. While the noodles are cooling, shred your rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces—this will give you tender, ready-to-layer protein for your lasagna.
Step 2: Cook the Creamy Spinach Sauce
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté your finely chopped onion until it softens and becomes translucent, releasing its natural sweetness. Add in the butter and whisk until melted, then gradually whisk in the flour, cooking until the mixture turns golden and nutty — this roux is the backbone of your creamy sauce. Slowly add the chicken broth and half and half, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, and let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes until thickened. Stir in minced garlic and fresh chopped spinach to melt just slightly before removing from the heat.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Blend
In a medium bowl, mix ricotta cheese, the egg, two cups of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. This blend is creamy, rich, and packed with flavor, perfect for layering within the lasagna to add both moisture and cheesy indulgence.
Step 4: Assemble Your Lasagna
To prepare your baking dish (a 9×13 inch pan works perfectly), start by spreading a thin layer of the creamy spinach sauce to prevent sticking and add moisture. Layer three lasagna noodles on top, then spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture evenly across the noodles. Add half of your shredded chicken, then pour a third of the spinach sauce over everything. Repeat the layers exactly and finish with the remaining noodles on top. Pour the remaining spinach cream sauce and sprinkle with the last cup of mozzarella cheese, creating a beautiful melty cheese crust.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish tightly with foil, making sure to use toothpicks to keep the foil elevated so it doesn’t stick to the cheese. Bake your creamy chicken spinach lasagna recipe at 375°F for 45 minutes until bubbly and heated through. Remove the foil and switch the oven to broil for 2 to 3 minutes to achieve a gorgeous golden-brown cheese topping. Let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before slicing—this helps all the layers set beautifully for perfect serving.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Spinach Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves adds a pop of color and a fresh, herby finish that complements the creamy layers perfectly. You might also dust a little extra grated Parmesan over each slice for an elegant touch.
Side Dishes
Since this lasagna is rich and hearty, light side options work best. A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts bring brightness and variety to balance the meal brilliantly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in rustic ramekins or small cast iron skillets for a fun twist, letting everyone enjoy their own cozy, bubbling lasagna. Alternatively, layering a small portion on a crisp toasted baguette slice makes a charming appetizer that highlights the fantastic flavors of this creamy chicken spinach lasagna recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This lasagna stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors even deepen with time, making your next meal just as delicious, if not more so.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish whole or in individual portions. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. It’s a real lifesaver for future busy nights!
Reheating
For the best taste and texture, reheat leftover lasagna in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, usually about 20-25 minutes. To preserve moisture, cover with foil during reheating, removing the foil at the end for a fresh golden top. Microwaving works too for convenience but may soften the noodles more.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh spinach is actually preferable for this recipe. It maintains a lovely texture and bright flavor when coarsely chopped and stirred briefly into the sauce.
Is there a substitute for ricotta cheese?
You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese blended smooth or cream cheese for a slightly different texture, but ricotta is best for achieving that traditional creamy consistency.
Can I prepare this recipe without chicken?
Yes! This recipe adapts well to a vegetarian version by swapping chicken with more spinach, mushrooms, or other vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for a hearty, meatless meal.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or incorporate a layer of sautéed spicy sausage with your chicken for an extra kick that complements the creamy flavors beautifully.
What wine pairs well with creamy chicken spinach lasagna recipe?
A crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully, balancing the rich creaminess and showcasing the dish’s fresh spinach and garlic notes.
Final Thoughts
I truly believe that the Creamy Chicken Spinach Lasagna Recipe is one of those treasured dishes everyone should have in their cooking repertoire. It’s comforting enough for a cozy night in but elegant enough to serve friends without stress. The layers of tender noodles, creamy spinach sauce, melty cheeses, and savory chicken come together in a delicious harmony you’ll want to make again and again. So grab your ingredients, and let’s bring this beautiful, flavorful lasagna to your table ASAP—you won’t regret it!
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Creamy Chicken Spinach Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Chicken Lasagna recipe features tender shredded rotisserie chicken layered with creamy spinach sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, all baked to golden perfection. It combines a delicate white sauce infused with garlic and spinach with classic lasagna noodles, making for a delicious and comforting meal perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Lasagna
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
- 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (or cooked chicken breast)
Spinach Cream Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups half and half (or equal parts heavy cream and milk)
- 5 ounces fresh spinach, coarsely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese Mixture
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Noodles: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the lasagna noodles following package directions until they are al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process, and set aside. Shred the rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breast finely.
- Make the Spinach Cream Sauce: Heat the olive oil in a skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until softened and translucent. Add the butter and whisk in the flour, cooking until the mixture turns golden brown. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and half and half, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped spinach, then remove the sauce from the heat.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, 2 cups of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of the spinach cream sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Lay down 3 cooked lasagna noodles side by side. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles, then half of the shredded chicken, and follow with one-third of the spinach cream sauce. Repeat the layers by adding 3 more noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, the rest of the chicken, and another third of the sauce. Finally, top with the last 3 noodles, the remaining spinach cream sauce, and sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Bake and Broil: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, using toothpicks to keep the foil from touching the cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After baking, remove the foil and broil the lasagna for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving to allow it to set.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken saves time, but cooked chicken breast works well too.
- Be sure not to overcook lasagna noodles; al dente texture helps prevent mushiness.
- To prevent foil from sticking to cheese, place toothpicks on top before covering.
- You can substitute half and half with equal parts heavy cream and milk for a richer sauce.
- Letting the lasagna rest after baking helps it hold together when sliced.
