Indulge in the creamy, comforting flavors of Chicken Alfredo Lasagna, a decadent twist on two classic dishes. This recipe combines the rich, savory taste of Alfredo sauce with tender chicken and layers of lasagna noodles, all topped with a golden, melted cheese crust. It’s the perfect dish for cozy family dinners, special occasions, or when you’re in the mood for something truly special. Let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering masterpiece, which is sure to impress and satisfy any culinary craving.
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 3 cups Alfredo sauce, homemade or high-quality store-bought
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in 1 cup of Alfredo sauce and warm through. Set aside.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined.
- Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the chicken mixture, and then a layer of spinach leaves if using.
- Sprinkle a third of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the chicken layer.
- Repeat the layers: noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, the remaining chicken mixture, spinach, and another third of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Top with the final layer of noodles, the remaining Alfredo sauce, and the remaining cheeses.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before cutting. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can substitute the Alfredo sauce with a low-fat version and use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella cheese.
- The lasagna can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated. Increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes if baking from cold.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Nutrition
Per serving (1 of 8):
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 880mg
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 30g
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta instead of lasagna noodles?
A: While traditional lasagna is made with lasagna noodles, you could experiment with other types of pasta for a different texture. Just be mindful of cooking times and layering.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the lasagna?
A: Absolutely! Spinach is suggested, but feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or artichokes to the chicken mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Q: Is it possible to make this lasagna gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free lasagna noodles and ensuring your Alfredo sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free.
Conclusion
Chicken Alfredo Lasagna is a luxurious dish that combines the heartiness of lasagna with the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce and tender chicken. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit your tastes or dietary needs, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether for a special occasion or a comforting family meal, this lasagna is sure to delight and satisfy. Enjoy the process of creating this beautiful dish and the wonderful flavors it brings to your table.