When the chill of winter settles in, there's nothing quite like the warmth of a rich, creamy dish to bring comfort to your evenings. I discovered this White Sauce Chicken Lasagna on a particularly gray day when takeout just wouldn’t cut it. As I rummaged through my kitchen, I found a treasure trove of ingredients that inspired me to whip up something special.
The moment that garlic hit the sizzling butter, the delightful aroma filled my home, promising a delicious meal ahead. This recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also a delightfully easy way to gather friends and family around the table. Picture layers of tender lasagna noodles, savory shredded chicken, and a luscious white sauce bubbling away in the oven. It takes a mere 75 minutes from start to finish, yet its comforting flavors will make you feel like a culinary star. Whether you're looking to impress or simply craving a homemade hug in food form, this lasagna is your ticket to blissful dining.
Why You'll Love This White Sauce Chicken Lasagna
- This White Sauce Chicken Lasagna is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a comforting dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
- The rich and creamy flavor of the white sauce, combined with tender chicken and gooey cheese, creates a mouthwatering experience that everyone will rave about.
- Its versatility means you can easily adapt it by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of cheese to suit your taste.
- Not only does this dish look stunning as it comes out of the oven, but it also makes for a perfect crowd-pleaser at gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied and happy.
White Sauce Chicken Lasagna Ingredients
For the Lasagna
• 9 lasagna noodles – cook them al dente to ensure they hold their shape.
• 3 cups cooked chicken – shredded rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for a shortcut.
For the White Sauce
• 4 tablespoon butter – use unsalted so you can control the seasoning.
• 4 tablespoon all-purpose flour – this will help thicken your sauce to a creamy consistency.
• 3 cups milk – whole milk adds richness, but skim can be used for a lighter option.
• 2 cloves garlic – minced for that aromatic, savory kick.
For the Cheesy Layers
• 1.5 cups ricotta cheese – a creamy base that adds body and flavor to your lasagna.
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese – shred your own for a meltier texture, or choose pre-shredded for convenience.
• 0.5 cup parmesan cheese – grated for topping, it adds a delightful tang and enhances the dish's richness.
This White Sauce Chicken Lasagna is sure to be a memorable addition to your family table, combining warmth with wonderfully layered flavors!
How to Make White Sauce Chicken Lasagna
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Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the minced garlic and let it sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. This builds a beautiful flavor base for your white sauce.
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Whisk in the flour to create a roux, stirring constantly for about 2-3 minutes until it turns a light golden color. This will help thicken your sauce.
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Pour in the whole milk gradually, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep cooking for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste, and remove the sauce from heat. Your luscious white sauce is now ready to bring it all together!
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Layer the lasagna by spreading a thin layer of white sauce in a baking dish, followed by 3 lasagna noodles. Top them with a third of the shredded chicken, a sprinkle of ricotta, and a generous amount of mozzarella.
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Repeat this layering process twice, finishing with noodles and the remaining white sauce on top. Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese evenly over everything.
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Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 30 minutes. This helps to steam the layers together beautifully.
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Uncover and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving to help the layers set.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and added freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze White Sauce Chicken Lasagna
Fridge: Store leftover White Sauce Chicken Lasagna in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: If you want to freeze your lasagna, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will last up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, cook frozen lasagna directly from the freezer in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 50-60 minutes. If reheating from the fridge, heat it for about 25-30 minutes.
Assembly Tips: For best results, consider assembling and freezing the lasagna before baking. This way, it locks in all the delicious flavors until you're ready to enjoy it!
What to Serve with White Sauce Chicken Lasagna?
Cozy up your dinner table with perfect pairings that complement this creamy lasagna delight.
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Garlicky Green Beans: These sautéed green beans add a crisp, fresh element that brightens the meal and balances the creaminess.
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Classic Caesar Salad: A tangy Caesar salad enhances the floral, savory flavors of the lasagna while introducing a delightful crunch with each bite.
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Herbed Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks sprinkled with herbs provide the ideal vessel for scooping up that luscious white sauce.
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Roasted Broccoli: Seasoned with olive oil and garlic, this roasted vegetable brings a touch of caramelization that perfectly contrasts the rich lasagna.
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Italian Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or Sangiovese complements the dish beautifully, enhancing the flavors while providing a warm embrace.
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Lemon Sorbet: Light and refreshing, this palate cleanser serves as the perfect end to a rich meal, ensuring a delightful finish to your dining experience.
Serve these alongside your White Sauce Chicken Lasagna for a well-rounded, comforting feast that wraps everyone in warmth and joy!
Make Ahead Options
These White Sauce Chicken Lasagna layers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the white sauce and assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, cook and combine the sauce, layer it with noodles, chicken, cheeses, and refrigerate it tightly covered. This allows the flavors to marry beautifully overnight. To maintain quality, keep the lasagna in the fridge, ensuring it’s sealed well to prevent drying out. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator, cover with foil, and proceed with baking in a preheated oven at 350°F for 30 minutes. Then uncover and bake for an additional 20 minutes, and you’ll have a delightful homemade meal ready to enjoy!
White Sauce Chicken Lasagna Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these delectable twists!
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Vegetable Boost: Add layers of sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor. These veggies not only enhance the dish but also create a colorful presentation.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free versions or thinly sliced zucchini for a satisfying low-carb alternative. Your lasagna will still be rich and comforting!
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Spicy Kick: Mix in some chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the white sauce for a delightful heat that tingles your taste buds. This is perfect for spice lovers!
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh or dried herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to the white sauce for added depth and a delightful aroma. It brings a garden-fresh flavor that elevates each bite.
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Cream Cheese Swirl: Replace part of the ricotta with cream cheese for an exceptionally creamy and rich texture. It creates a velvety mouthfeel that’s absolutely irresistible.
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Barbecue Chicken: Use shredded barbecue chicken instead of plain for a smoky twist that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce and cheese layers. This will add a fun, robust flavor profile!
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Cheese Mix-Up: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or cheddar in place of mozzarella for a unique flavor twist. Each cheese adds its special character, ensuring every slice is a new delight.
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Pesto Drizzle: Add a layer of basil pesto between the layers for an aromatic burst of flavor. This simple addition takes your lasagna to a new level of deliciousness!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always cook the lasagna noodles al dente to ensure they maintain their shape during baking and prevent sogginess.
- A great shortcut is to use shredded rotisserie chicken, which saves time while adding delicious flavor.
- When making the white sauce, whisk continuously after adding the flour to create a smooth roux that thickens properly.
- Bake your lasagna covered for the first 30 minutes at 350°F to allow it to steam and then uncover it for the last 20 minutes to achieve a bubbly, golden crust.
White Sauce Chicken Lasagna Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using shredded rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut for this White Sauce Chicken Lasagna. It's flavorful and saves you time. If you prefer, you can also use grilled or poached chicken breast—just ensure it's cooked and shredded before layering in your lasagna.
How should I store leftover White Sauce Chicken Lasagna?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s tightly sealed to keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge. If you want it to last longer, freezing is a fantastic option!
Can I freeze White Sauce Chicken Lasagna?
Very! To freeze, wrap the assembled dish tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, you can bake it directly from frozen, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. To ensure even cooking, consider covering it with foil during the first half.
What should I do if my white sauce is too thin or lumpy?
If your white sauce turns out too thin, return it to the heat and continue whisking it while simmering for a few more minutes to thicken. If it's lumpy, try whisking vigorously or use an immersion blender to smooth it out. A great tip is to always add the milk slowly and whisk continuously after adding the flour to prevent lumps.
Is this dish suitable for those with lactose intolerance?
While this recipe contains dairy, you can certainly make a lactose-free version! Substitute lactose-free milk and cheese, like lactose-free mozzarella and ricotta, to keep all the deliciousness without any discomfort. Just be cautious and make sure to check the ingredient labels if allergies are a concern.
White Sauce Chicken Lasagna
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the minced garlic and let it sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Whisk in the flour to create a roux, stirring constantly for about 2-3 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
- Pour in the whole milk gradually, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep cooking for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and remove the sauce from heat.
- Layer the lasagna by spreading a thin layer of white sauce in a baking dish, followed by 3 lasagna noodles.
- Top them with a third of the shredded chicken, a sprinkle of ricotta, and a generous amount of mozzarella.
- Repeat this layering process twice, finishing with noodles and the remaining white sauce on top.
- Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese evenly over everything.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
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