If you are craving a comforting, luscious dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce Recipe is your new best friend. Picture tender layers of perfectly cooked lasagna noodles, shredded chicken infused with aromatic garlic and onions, and a velvety white sauce that melts beautifully with mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta cheeses. Each bite delivers creamy decadence with a subtle hint of Italian herbs that will have you swooning. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe brings classic flavors with a twist that is both satisfying and unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce Recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient contributes to its rich texture, vibrant flavors, and inviting appearance. From the creamy cheeses to the fresh spinach, every component plays a delicious part in creating harmony on your plate.
- Lasagna noodles: Use 9 cooked and drained noodles to create perfect layers that hold everything together.
- Cooked chicken: 2 cups shredded or diced add a hearty protein element and tender texture.
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons for sautéing aromatics gently to build flavor.
- Unsalted butter: 3 tablespoons to form the base of the rich white sauce.
- Garlic: 3 cloves minced to infuse that irresistible savory aroma.
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped, adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- All-purpose flour: 1/3 cup for thickening the luscious white sauce.
- Whole milk: 3 cups warmed to ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
- Heavy cream: 1 cup elevates the sauce to silky indulgence.
- Mozzarella cheese: 1 1/2 cups shredded, divided to sprinkle between layers and on top for a gooey finish.
- Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup grated for sharp, nutty undertones that brighten the sauce.
- Ricotta cheese: 1 cup blended with egg for creamy, fluffy layers.
- Egg: 1 large, binds the ricotta mixture perfectly.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon to enhance all the flavors harmoniously.
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon adds gentle warmth.
- Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon for that classic herbaceous blend.
- Nutmeg (optional): 1/4 teaspoon lends a subtle, warm complexity to the white sauce.
- Fresh spinach (optional): 2 cups chopped to add vibrant color and a touch of freshness.
- Fresh parsley (optional): For garnish, bringing a pop of green and freshness to the final presentation.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Noodles
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish—it’s the perfect stage for your lasagna masterpiece to come together. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and lay them out to prevent sticking. This foundation ensures each layer will be tender yet firm, holding all those indulgent fillings beautifully.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Chicken
In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat and sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds, to keep that fresh punch. Toss in the shredded or diced cooked chicken, stirring to warm and mingle those flavors. This simple mixture will build a savory base that pairs perfectly with the creamy layers ahead.
Step 3: Make the White Sauce
Now, onto the star of the show—the creamy white sauce. In a saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/3 cup flour and cook for about a minute to eliminate that raw flour taste. Gradually add 3 cups of warm whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens smoothly like silk. Season with 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and a pinch of nutmeg if using. Remove it from heat and stir in half of the shredded mozzarella and all the Parmesan cheese until melted and luscious.
Step 4: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup ricotta cheese with 1 large egg until smooth and creamy. This mixture adds a beautiful richness and helps the lasagna’s layers hold together with a delicate fluffiness that will make every forkful irresistible.
Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna
Start by spreading a thin layer of the white sauce at the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Lay down 3 noodles, then evenly spread part of the chicken mixture on top. Dollop some of the ricotta mixture over the chicken, scatter chopped fresh spinach if you’re using it, then add a generous layer of white sauce. Repeat this layering process two more times—noodles, chicken, ricotta, spinach, and sauce—ending with a generous drizzle of white sauce topped with the remaining mozzarella cheese for that golden, bubbly crown.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Cover your lasagna loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes in the preheated oven. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is bubbly and lightly golden brown, inviting you with its cozy aroma. Once out of the oven, allow it to rest for 10 minutes to set perfectly before slicing into those creamy, cheesy layers.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
For the finishing touch, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over each slice right before serving. It adds a burst of vibrant color and a fresh, herby lift that complements the richness of the lasagna. You might also add a light dusting of extra Parmesan for cheesier indulgence.
Side Dishes
This lasagna pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette or garlic roasted asparagus are fantastic companions, balancing the creamy textures with bright and crunchy contrast. Garlic bread, warm and buttery, can never go wrong as a classic sidekick.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve individual portions in small ramekins for charming personal lasagnas, or layer the lasagna in a clear glass casserole for a visually stunning effect that showcases all the layers. For a lighter twist, swap out the spinach for sliced mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to add colorful variation and nuanced flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve moisture and flavors, making it an easy grab-and-go lunch or dinner for busy days.
Freezing
This dish freezes well before baking. Assemble the entire lasagna, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience whenever you wish.
Reheating
Reheat leftover slices in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes to maintain that glorious texture and melted cheese. Microwaving works too for convenience—with a short interval to keep the sauce creamy without overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is actually a fantastic shortcut that adds great flavor and saves cooking time without compromising the deliciousness of your Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce Recipe.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Yes, simply skip the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant. The creamy white sauce combined with cheeses ensures it stays rich and satisfying even without meat.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?
You can use whole milk or half-and-half for a lighter version, but keep in mind the sauce may be less rich and creamy. Adjust the thickness by adding a bit more flour if needed.
How long does it take to prepare and cook?
The total time for this Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce Recipe is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, including prep and baking. It’s definitely worth every minute spent!
Can I assemble the lasagna in advance?
Yes! You can assemble it up to 24 hours ahead and keep it refrigerated. Just bring it to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking and perfect texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce Recipe that makes it a surefire crowd-pleaser. It combines simplicity, comfort, and flavor in every layer, making it a treasured dish to keep in your recipe box. Don’t wait to dive into this cheesy, creamy indulgence—the smiles it brings around the table are priceless. Give it a try, and watch it become a beloved favorite in your home too!
Print
Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce is a comforting Italian-American classic featuring layers of tender lasagna noodles, shredded chicken, rich white sauce made from butter, flour, and cream, and a blend of cheeses including mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta. Enhanced with garlic, onions, and Italian seasoning, this lasagna bakes to a bubbly, golden perfection and offers a creamy, savory flavor perfect for a hearty family dinner or special occasion. Optional spinach adds a fresh, nutritious touch.
Ingredients
Lasagna Layer
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (optional)
White Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics and Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant, then stir in the shredded cooked chicken. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare White Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the warmed whole milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens smoothly. Season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and nutmeg if using.
- Add Cheese to Sauce: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and all of the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Mix Ricotta Filling: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the large egg and mix until smooth and well blended.
- Assemble Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of the white sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer three lasagna noodles on top, followed by half of the chicken mixture, dollops of the ricotta mixture, chopped spinach if using, and more white sauce. Repeat the layers starting with noodles, chicken, ricotta, spinach, and white sauce. Finish the top layer with remaining white sauce and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the lasagna to heat through evenly.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake an additional 15 minutes or until the lasagna is bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing, allowing it to set and making it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken reduces prep time and adds great flavor.
- This lasagna can be assembled ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking, making it convenient for meal prep.
- Adding spinach is optional but adds a nutritious green element to the dish.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra spinach or vegetables of choice.
