Every great recipe has its story and our Creamy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna is no exception. I still remember the first time I prepared this dish on a chilly autumn evening when I was craving some comforting food that would satisfy both my husband and child. Little did I know that this lasagna would become a family tradition. The creamy cheesy layers combined with tender chicken and aromatic Alfredo sauce won their hearts making it our go-to meal for occasions and cozy Sunday dinners.
What makes this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna truly exceptional?
Our Creamy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna showcases an Alfredo sauce. A velvety blend of butter infused with garlic, cream, and parmesan cheese. The addition of pesto-infused ricotta brings a twist to the dish while allowing you to customize it with your protein or vegetables. This lasagna is a filling dish that everyone will love. It’s perfect, for get-togethers family meals, or potlucks guaranteeing that everyone will leave the table feeling satisfied and wanting more.
What You Need To Make This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Recipe?
Garlic (Fresh, Minced): For Alfredo sauce it’s important to use minced garlic for an aromatic flavor. Avoid using packaged minced garlic as it won’t have the same taste.
Butter: The base of the sauce is butter so opt for unsalted butter to control the saltiness.
Nutmeg: Adding an amount of nutmeg can give the sauce warmth and depth but be careful not to overpower the dish with it.
Chicken Broth (or Vegetable): To enhance the flavor of the sauce choose a high-quality chicken or vegetable broth. If you prefer to control the saltiness go for low-sodium varieties.
Heavy Cream: The key, to achieving creamy consistency is using heavy cream instead of milk.
Lemon Juice: For a touch of tanginess freshly squeezed lemon juice works wonders. Make sure to use fresh lemon juice for best results.
Parmesan Cheese: When it comes to parmesan cheese go for high-quality and freshly grated options as they offer the best flavor and texture. Avoid packaged grated cheese as it may contain additives that affect the consistency of your sauce.
Ricotta Cheese: For the ricotta layer in your recipe choose a high-quality ricotta cheese, for a smooth result. Lower moisture content is preferred.
Pesto: Adding quality pesto brings out a blend of nutty flavors. You can opt for store-bought pesto. Put your touch by making your own.
Egg (Lightly Beaten): The beaten egg serves as a binding agent, for the ricotta and pesto resulting in a flavorful layer.
Baby Spinach: Incorporating fresh baby spinach adds a touch of freshness and vibrant color to the layers. You can adjust the amount of spinach based on your preference. Substitute it with greens, like kale or Swiss chard.
Lasagna Noodles: Utilize lasagna noodles. Cook them according to the instructions provided on the package. For convenience, you can also use no-boil noodles.
Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella cheese creates that gooey, cheesy layer. Consider opting for mozzarella if you desire a creamier texture or go for part-skim mozzarella for a lighter option.
Shredded Chicken: If you’re looking to save time pre cooked and shredded chicken can be used. Rotisserie chicken works well or you can poach chicken breasts and shred them.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and subtle notes. Finely chop it for a distribution of flavor.
Steps To Make Creamy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna:
Step 1: Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Once they’re done drain them. Set them aside.
Step 2: In a bowl mix together ricotta cheese, pesto, and a beaten egg.
Step 3: To make the Alfredo sauce melt some butter in a pan. Add minced garlic. Let it cook on low heat for a couple of minutes. Then turn up the heat to medium. Add chicken broth and cream. Stir in parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly. Add nutmeg and lemon juice giving it a stir. Be careful not to let it come to a boil.
Step 4: Take a 9×13-inch pan. Start, by spreading some Alfredo sauce at the bottom. Then layer noodles, ricotta mixture, shredded chicken, baby spinach, mozzarella cheese and sauce. Repeat this process 3 or 4 times. For the top layer pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over it all and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top. Finish with a touch of parsley for added flair.
Step 5: Cover the pan with foil. Bake at 350°F, for 30 minutes. After that remove the foil and let it bake for 15 to 20 minutes until it becomes bubbly and golden.
Step 6: Slice and Indulge. Wait a while for it to cool down then cut it into slices and savor the creamy cheesy deliciousness! Enjoy your lasagna masterpiece!
Tip:
To save time during busy evenings you might want to consider making the Alfredo sauce ahead of time. You can store it in a container, in the fridge for up to three days. This way when you’re ready to put your Creamy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna all you have to do is heat up the sauce on the stove. It will be just as smooth and flavorful, as when you made it. This little trick can really make a difference when it comes to weeknight dinners or hosting guests as it simplifies the process of assembling the lasagna without compromising on taste.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Of course! You have the option to prepare the lasagna in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just remember, if you take it from the fridge you might need to add a few minutes to the baking time.
Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
If you’re pressed for time using a high-quality store-bought Alfredo sauce is an option. However, I must say that homemade Alfredo sauce truly brings out a flavor in this recipe.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! This lasagna freezes wonderfully. Make sure to wrap it with both plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready, for another serving thaw it overnight, in the refrigerator. Reheat it in the oven.
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna
Ingredients
Alfredo Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup 1 stick butter
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- 1 cup chicken broth or vegetable
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 1 ½ cups grated parmesan cheese
Ricotta Layer:
- 14 oz ricotta cheese
- ½ cup pesto
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
Lasagna Layers:
- 1 cup fresh baby spinach
- 1 box lasagna noodles
- 2-3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2-3 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 3 tablespoons fresh parsley
Instructions
- Start by cooking the lasagna noodles as, per the instructions on the package. Once cooked drain them. Set them aside.
- Next prepare the ricotta layer by combining ricotta cheese, pesto and a beaten egg in a bowl. Mix everything together until well combined.
- For the Alfredo sauce melt butter in a pan over low heat. Add minced garlic. Stir in chicken broth and cream gradually followed by parmesan cheese to ensure smoothness. Add nutmeg and lemon juice while stirring continuously. Be careful not to let it come to a boil.
- To assemble the lasagna begin by spreading a layer of Alfredo sauce at the bottom of a 9x13 inch pan. Then create layers using noodles, ricotta mixture, shredded chicken, baby spinach leaves, mozzarella cheese and more sauce. Repeat these layers until you've used up all your ingredients. Finish with another layer of sauce on top along with mozzarella cheese and fresh parsley, for added flavor.
- Cover the pan with foil. Bake it at 350°F for 30 minutes to allow everything to cook through. After that time has elapsed, remove the foil. Continue baking for 15 to 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Once done baking let it cool slightly before slicing it into servings. Enjoy your cheesy creation!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!