Chicken Alfredo Lasagna

Chicken Alfredo Lasagna is a creamy, indulgent twist on a classic Italian dish, layering tender lasagna noodles with a rich Alfredo sauce, fresh spinach, and savory chicken. This comforting meal is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home, offering a delicious combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 12-15 lasagna noodles
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 10 oz fresh baby spinach
• 4 cups heavy cream
• 1.5 cups Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken
• 4 cups mozzarella cheese, grated
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Fresh parsley, minced (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Soak the Noodles
   Soak the lasagna noodles in hot water for at least 30 minutes to soften them.
3. Prepare the Alfredo Mixture
   In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Pour in the heavy cream, then season with dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for a few minutes, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, ricotta cheese, and shredded chicken until well combined.
4. Assemble the Lasagna
   In the prepared baking dish, layer the soaked lasagna noodles with the Alfredo mixture and a generous amount of grated mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layering until all ingredients are used, finishing with mozzarella on top.
5. Bake
   Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. For a golden, bubbly top, you can broil the lasagna for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time, watching closely to prevent burning.
6. Let Rest
   Once baked, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with minced parsley, if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 8 people. The prep time is around 30 minutes, with a cooking time of 45 minutes, bringing the total time to approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the shredded chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a vegetarian lasagna.
• Cheese Lover’s Delight: Add more layers of cheese, such as fontina or gouda, for an extra cheesy experience.
• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the Alfredo mixture for a spicy version.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
   Yes, no-boil noodles can be used; just follow the package instructions for layering.
2. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
   Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
3. What kind of chicken should I use?
   Cooked rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe and saves time.
4. Is there a dairy-free option?
   You can use dairy-free cheeses and substitute coconut cream for the heavy cream to make it dairy-free.
5. Can I freeze Chicken Alfredo Lasagna?
   Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil for best results.
6. How do I know when the lasagna is done?
   The lasagna should be bubbly and golden on top. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out hot.
7. What can I serve with lasagna?
   A simple side salad and garlic bread complement this dish perfectly.
8. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
   Yes, fresh spinach works wonderfully; just ensure it’s wilted before adding it to the mixture.
9. What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
   You can substitute with Pecorino Romano or omit it, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
10. Can I add more vegetables?
    Yes! Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or other vegetables to the Alfredo mixture for added nutrition.

Conclusion

Chicken Alfredo Lasagna is a creamy, comforting dish that combines the best elements of Italian cuisine into a hearty meal. With layers of flavor and a delightful texture, it’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare and sure to satisfy, this lasagna will quickly become a family favorite! Enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite!

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