Oh, how I love a good lasagna! There’s just something so comforting about layers of cheesy goodness, especially when you can sneak in some veggies and chicken for a nutritious twist. I remember the first time I attempted a lasagna like this—I was just a college student with a knack for appreciating good food but little cooking experience. I ended up with a bubbling, gooey masterpiece that had my friends begging for seconds (and thirds!). That day, I knew I had found my calling in the kitchen!
Today, I’m thrilled to share my Chicken Alfredo Lasagna recipe with you. It’s a delightful fusion of creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and fresh spinach, all tucked between sheets of lasagna noodles. This dish is a perfect crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Trust me, it’s worth every layer!
What’s in Chicken Alfredo Lasagna?
Let’s break down what makes this lasagna so delectable!
Lasagna Noodles: The backbone of any lasagna! I usually go for standard flat noodles, but you can also find no-boil varieties if you’re in a time crunch.
Olive Oil: A bit of good quality olive oil adds flavor while sautéing the vegetables. It’s a staple in my kitchen!
Onion: The flavor base of the dish. Chopped onions create a wonderful sweetness as they cook down.
Garlic: Because who doesn’t love garlic? It elevates the dish and fills your kitchen with a heavenly aroma.
Cooked Chicken: I like to use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience, but any cooked chicken will do! It makes the dish hearty and satisfying.
Fresh Spinach: This adds a pop of color and a nutritional boost. Plus, it cooks down beautifully, so you barely even notice you’re eating your greens!
Alfredo Sauce: You can use store-bought for ease or whip up a quick homemade version. Either way, choose a creamy sauce that you love.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese helps create those delicious layers and adds a lovely texture.
Mozzarella Cheese: Nothing beats melted mozzarella! It gives that irresistible gooeyness to the lasagna.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan adds a nutty flavor and a delightful crispness on top.
Italian Seasoning: A mix of herbs that infuses the dish with classic Italian flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring everything together.
Fresh Parsley: Optional for garnish, but it creates a lovely presentation!
Is Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about the health aspects of this creamy delight.
Chicken: Packed with protein, chicken is great for muscle repair and overall health. It’s filling and ensures you won’t feel hungry shortly after your meal.
Spinach: A leafy green powerhouse, spinach is loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and fiber. It totally counts as a veggie serving!
Alfredo Sauce: Here’s where you want to be mindful. Alfredo sauce can be high in calories and fat, especially if it’s store-bought. Opt for a lighter variety or make your own using low-fat cream for a healthier twist!
Cheeses: While delicious, cheese can add up in calories and fat content. Moderation is key!
Remember, it’s all about balance. Pair your lasagna with a side salad to increase your nutrient intake!
Ingredients:
– 9 lasagna noodles
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 2 cups fresh spinach
– 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
This recipe should serve around 6 generous portions, perfect for family or friends!
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Lasagna?
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes transparent, about 3–4 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Stir in the shredded chicken, fresh spinach, Alfredo sauce, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese.
6. To assemble, spread a thin layer of the chicken Alfredo mixture at the bottom of your baking dish. Layer 3 lasagna noodles on top.
7. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of the chicken Alfredo mixture. Repeat this layer with another set of noodles, ricotta mix, and chicken Alfredo.
8. Finish with a final layer of noodles and the remaining Alfredo mixture. Top it off with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
10. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Layer It Up!
Don’t hesitate to get creative with your lasagna! You can mix in mushrooms, zucchini, or even sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and texture. And for a little crunch, serve it alongside some garlic bread and a refreshing green salad.
I promise, this Chicken Alfredo Lasagna will warm your heart just like it does mine every time I make it. So, roll up those sleeves, and let’s get cooking! I can’t wait for you to experience this delicious dish. Don’t forget to share your lasagna adventures with me—I love hearing how people personalize their recipes! Happy cooking!
