There’s something irresistibly comforting about a bubbling pan of creamy, cheesy pasta that brings everyone to the table. This White Chicken Lasagna Recipe is truly special—it swaps out the familiar tomato-based sauce for a heavenly white sauce, layered with tender chicken, spinach, and three types of cheese. Every forkful is rich, savory, and delightfully satisfying, making it the perfect dish for family gatherings, special occasions, or just an upgraded weeknight dinner. Whether you’re a long-time lasagna lover or looking to try something a bit different, the White Chicken Lasagna Recipe will become a new favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be surprised at how pantry-friendly and straightforward the ingredients are for this White Chicken Lasagna Recipe! Each element plays a crucial role: from the silky sauce to the earthy spinach and melt-in-your-mouth cheese, these ingredients come together for maximum flavor, texture, and that iconic golden finish.
- Lasagna noodles (9): The foundation of every impressive lasagna, these create those hearty, satisfying layers you crave.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Brings out the sweetness in the onions and garlic while kick-starting flavor in every bite.
- Small onion, finely chopped: Adds aroma and a subtle sweetness that balances the creamy sauce.
- Garlic, minced (3 cloves): Delivers an aromatic punch and depth that no Italian-inspired dish should be without.
- Cooked shredded chicken (3 cups): The star protein—use rotisserie chicken for unbeatable flavor and convenience.
- Frozen spinach, thawed and drained (10 ounces): Offers both vibrant color and a boost of nutrition—just squeeze out excess moisture!
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for making every component pop.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Rounds out the seasoning with a gentle warmth.
- Italian seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): A blend of herbs that ties everything together beautifully.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For those who like just a hint of heat—entirely optional, but a fun twist!
- Ricotta cheese (15-ounce container): Creates a luxuriously creamy, fluffy layer in each bite.
- Large egg: Binds the ricotta so it stays rich and cohesive when sliced.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): Delivers that gooey, stretchy, melty magic over and between layers.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup, plus 1/2 cup for sauce): Brings salty, nutty flavor that’s distinctly Italian and perfect for both inside and on top.
- Butter (4 tablespoons): Makes the white sauce decadently smooth and flavorful.
- All-purpose flour (1/4 cup): The key thickener for the creamy sauce base.
- Milk (3 cups): Gives the sauce a silky, pourable consistency that coats every noodle.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Adds richness and just the right amount of indulgence.
How to Make White Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Noodles and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook your lasagna noodles according to the package directions so they’re al dente—they’ll finish cooking while baking. Drain them carefully and set aside on a tray, separated slightly to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Chicken & Spinach Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Sauté the finely chopped onion until soft and golden, about 3 minutes, then toss in the minced garlic for another fragrant minute. Add your cooked, shredded chicken and thawed, well-drained spinach. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Stir well until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Layer
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and one large egg. Stir until smooth and fully blended—this mixture will add creamy pockets to every single bite of your White Chicken Lasagna Recipe.
Step 4: Whip Up the White Sauce
Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about a minute, just to cook out the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking until smooth. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 5 minutes). Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Remove from the heat—your sauce should be glossy and wonderfully fragrant.
Step 5: Assemble
Grab your 9×13-inch baking dish and start with a thin layer of white sauce at the bottom (this will keep the noodles from sticking). Lay down three noodles, then spread 1/3 of your ricotta mixture, followed by 1/3 of the chicken-spinach mixture. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat with two more layers in the same order, finishing with noodles, the last of the white sauce, and a generous layer of cheese on top.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Cover the lasagna with foil and bake for 25 minutes—this helps everything melt and meld together. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes so the top becomes beautifully bubbly and golden. Let your White Chicken Lasagna Recipe rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing—this patience pays off with perfectly neat squares.
How to Serve White Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
A shower of freshly chopped parsley or basil just before serving adds brilliant color and an herbal freshness that wakes up the creamy flavors. A final sprinkle of Parmesan cheese over the top is a classic finishing touch. For an extra dash of brightness, try a squeeze of lemon zest or a tiny drizzle of good olive oil as you serve.
Side Dishes
This White Chicken Lasagna Recipe is super satisfying on its own, but it absolutely shines when served with a crisp green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette. Pair with garlic bread (for dunking into that luscious extra sauce) or roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini for a wholesome Italian-American feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve lasagna squares stacked with a little extra sauce spooned over the top for restaurant-worthy presentation. If you love entertaining, bake in smaller individual ramekins or mini loaf pans for adorable, personal servings—the wow factor is guaranteed. For a brunch twist, serve leftovers reheated with a side of poached eggs and fresh greens.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, leftover White Chicken Lasagna Recipe can be covered tightly and stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors actually become even more pronounced as they settle together, so it’s a fantastic make-ahead meal.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled (but unbaked) White Chicken Lasagna Recipe wrapped tightly in both plastic wrap and foil for up to three months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual. Even baked lasagna freezes well—just portion it out, wrap well, and freeze for quick lunches or dinners.
Reheating
To reheat, simply place a slice (or the entire pan) in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil, until heated through—about 20–30 minutes, depending on the amount. Slices also reheat beautifully in the microwave, but the oven keeps the cheese meltier and the edges delightfully crisp.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a huge time-saver and often adds even more flavor thanks to its seasoning. Just shred and use it as directed.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free lasagna noodles and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend when preparing the white sauce. The result is just as creamy and delicious.
What if I want to add more vegetables?
Feel free! Sautéed mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers work beautifully in the White Chicken Lasagna Recipe. Just make sure to cook off any extra moisture to keep your layers intact.
Can I prep the lasagna ahead of time?
Definitely. You can assemble the entire lasagna up to one day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. It’s ideal for preparing ahead for gatherings or busy evenings.
How can I prevent my lasagna from being too runny?
Be certain the spinach is well-drained and the white sauce is thickened adequately. Letting the lasagna rest before slicing is also crucial—this helps set the layers for perfect pieces.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a heartwarming, crowd-pleasing dish that’s as impressive as it is comforting, give this White Chicken Lasagna Recipe a try. The flavors are creamy and savory with a touch of elegance—perfect for both special occasions and cozy family dinners. I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine!
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White Chicken Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a comforting and flavorful White Chicken Lasagna with layers of chicken, spinach, and a creamy white sauce, all baked to perfection. This Italian-American twist on traditional lasagna is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
Main Lasagna Ingredients:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 (10-ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
White Sauce Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and cook lasagna noodles. In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic, then add chicken, spinach, and seasonings.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: Combine ricotta cheese with egg.
- Make White Sauce: Melt butter, whisk in flour, add milk and cream, simmer, and stir in Parmesan cheese.
- Assemble Lasagna: Layer noodles, ricotta mixture, chicken-spinach mix, and cheeses. Repeat for three layers and top with remaining sauce and cheese.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake, then uncover and bake until golden.
- Rest and Serve: Let the lasagna rest before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can substitute kale for spinach or use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For a richer flavor, add a touch of nutmeg to the white sauce.
- Freezes well before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
