Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce Recipe
If you’re craving pure comfort food that’s creamy, dreamy, and packed with savory flavor, Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce will quickly become your new go-to favorite! Imagine layers of tender chicken, velvety white béchamel, and oozy melted cheeses all nestled between perfectly cooked pasta sheets. This dish delivers all the cozy vibes of classic lasagna, but with a gentle twist—every bite is rich yet delicately balanced, with herby undertones and just enough golden crisp to keep you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a special get-together, Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce is guaranteed to steal the show and warm everyone’s heart and belly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love about this recipe is how each ingredient plays a starring role in creating layers of flavor, creaminess, and color. Everything on this list is easy to find, but together they build an Italian-American classic that feels like an indulgence—trust me, each one matters!
- Lasagna noodles: Traditional pasta sheets hold everything together and soak up that irresistible white sauce.
- Olive oil: A drizzle for sautéing brings out the sweetness in your onions and anchors the whole dish with a Mediterranean touch.
- Onion: Adds depth and a subtle sweetness—don’t skip this; it’s worth the chop!
- Garlic: Three cloves give just the right aromatic punch without overpowering the delicate white sauce.
- Cooked shredded chicken: Tender, juicy protein that soaks up all those creamy, herby flavors; rotisserie works beautifully if you’re in a hurry.
- Ricotta cheese: The creamy middle layer that keeps everything sumptuous and light.
- Egg: Helps bind the ricotta layer so every slice holds together like a dream.
- Salt: Just a little brings all the savory notes in your filling to life.
- Black pepper: Freshly ground makes the world of difference, adding a gentle warmth.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: That gooey, stretchy melt is a must for any comforting lasagna.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle it for nuttiness and golden, bubbly finish on top.
- Butter: The essential starter for our creamy white sauce; don’t skimp!
- All-purpose flour: This makes the roux and thickens our sauce until it’s lush and luscious.
- Whole milk: Gives the béchamel its signature silky body—use full-fat for best results.
- Dried basil and oregano: These classic herbs lend a touch of earthiness, echoing that beloved Italian flavor profile.
- Ground nutmeg: Just a pinch makes all the difference, adding subtle warmth and personality to the sauce.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce
Step 1: Prep and Cook the Lasagna Noodles
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Get a large pot of water boiling and cook your lasagna noodles according to the package directions. Drain them with care and lay them flat on a kitchen towel or parchment so they don’t stick together—smooth pasta makes assembly a breeze!
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s softened and sweet-smelling. Add the minced garlic and stir for another minute as the aroma gets even better. This base lays down the savory foundation of your creamy chicken filling.
Step 3: Add and Season the Chicken
Stir the cooked, shredded chicken right into your onion and garlic mixture and remove from heat. The chicken soaks up every bit of that beautiful flavor while staying tender and juicy. This filling makes the heart of your Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce!
Step 4: Make the Ricotta Layer
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the egg, salt, and black pepper. Stir vigorously until you have a lush, creamy blend—the egg acts like your secret glue, helping the layer hold together for those perfect lasagna slices.
Step 5: Whip Up the White Sauce
Melt the butter over medium heat in a saucepan. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about a minute, creating a smooth roux. Gradually pour in the milk and keep stirring until the sauce thickens, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Now add the basil, oregano, ground nutmeg, and half the Parmesan. The resulting béchamel should feel silky and fragrant—this is what makes Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce so special!
Step 6: Assemble the Lasagna
Grab your trusty 9×13 inch baking dish. Start with a velvety swish of white sauce on the bottom, then layer three noodles over it. Spread half the chicken mixture, then half the ricotta blend, followed by a layer of mozzarella. Repeat the layers, ending with noodles, more white sauce, and the last bits of mozzarella and Parmesan for that delectable, golden crust.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and let your lasagna bubble away for another 15 minutes until the top turns golden and irresistible. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing—this quick pause is crucial for clean cuts and maximum flavor meld.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce
Garnishes
A scatter of fresh chopped parsley or basil across the top brings color and a touch of brightness to each slice. If you love a bit of zip, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of cracked black pepper can make your Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce sing with that extra flair at the table.
Side Dishes
Pair this savory lasagna with a big bowl of leafy green salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette—it’s the perfect fresh contrast. Steamed broccoli, garlicky green beans, or even roasted carrots balance out the creamy richness, making your meal feel vibrant and complete.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the lasagna into generous squares and serve on individual plates with a drizzle of leftover white sauce. For a dinner party, arrange servings with a few microgreens or edible flowers for a restaurant-worthy look. Miniature lasagna rolls made with individual noodles are adorable for appetizers or party platters!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftover Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce into an airtight container or simply cover the baking dish tightly. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—trust me, the flavors deepen and become even more satisfying!
Freezing
To freeze, wrap individual portions or the whole lasagna (once completely cooled) tightly in foil and then plastic wrap. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for your creamy chicken fix, just thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and the cheese is bubbling. To keep it moist, cover with foil for most of the baking, then uncover at the end for that melty, golden top. The microwave works too for single portions, but the oven preserves the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a huge time-saver and delivers wonderfully juicy, flavorful results. Simply shred the meat and fold it in where the recipe calls for cooked chicken.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute gluten-free lasagna noodles and use a gluten-free flour blend for the white sauce roux. The rest of the ingredients are naturally free from gluten, so you can enjoy this comforting classic without worry.
Can I prepare Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce ahead of time?
You sure can! Simply assemble the entire lasagna, cover, and refrigerate up to a day in advance. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to add a few minutes to the baking time if it’s coming from the fridge.
What cheeses work best if I want to switch up the flavor?
Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan are classic, but feel free to try creamy cottage cheese in place of ricotta, or add provolone or fontina for even more melt and flavor. Mixing in a bit of sharp white cheddar can also create a lovely tang.
Can I add vegetables to Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce?
Absolutely! Spinach and mushrooms are both wonderful in this dish—just sauté them first to remove excess moisture. Broccoli florets, roasted zucchini, or even some sweet bell peppers folded into the chicken layer can add color and nutrition while keeping everything deliciously creamy.
Final Thoughts
I hope you have as much fun making and sharing Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce as I do. Watching friends dive in for seconds is the ultimate compliment, and there’s nothing better than the combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cheesy pasta. Bring this to your table soon—you’ll be making it on repeat!
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Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce. Layers of tender lasagna noodles, savory shredded chicken, creamy ricotta cheese, and a decadent white sauce come together to create a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
White Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Noodles: Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Sauté Onion: In a saucepan, sauté onion in olive oil until soft. Add garlic and cook briefly.
- Prepare Chicken: Stir in shredded chicken and set aside.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: Mix ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Make White Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk and spices. Cook until thickened.
- Layer Ingredients: Alternate layers of noodles, chicken mixture, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and white sauce in a baking dish.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake, then uncover and bake until golden and bubbly. Rest before serving.
Notes
- Enhance with sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option for this recipe.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 540 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
