If you’re craving something cozy yet delightfully fresh, this White Chicken Lasagna Recipe is the perfect dinner to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Combining tender shredded rotisserie chicken, creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, and vibrant baby spinach in a luscious white sauce, this dish takes traditional lasagna to a whole new level. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with layers of flavor that will make you want seconds — or thirds! Whether you’re making it for a weeknight family meal or a weekend gathering, this recipe delivers classic comfort food vibes with a delicious, bright twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this White Chicken Lasagna Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of creamy texture, savory flavor, and fresh color that makes this dish truly unforgettable.
- Whole milk ricotta (15 oz): Adds creamy richness and a smooth, luscious texture to the cheese layer.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups total): Provides gooey meltiness and a mild, melty stretch.
- Grated parmesan cheese (½ cup total): Offers a nutty, sharp flavor that deepens the overall cheese profile.
- Large egg (1): Binds the ricotta mixture, helping it hold together during baking.
- Freshly cracked black pepper (¼ tsp): Gives a subtle kick and balances the richness of the cheese.
- Rotisserie chicken (about 3 cups shredded): Quickly infuses the dish with tender, flavorful protein without the fuss of cooking chicken from scratch.
- Salt (½ Tbsp for pasta water + ½ tsp for sauce): Enhances every ingredient’s natural flavor.
- Lasagna noodles (9): The perfect sturdy base to support the creamy layers without falling apart.
- Butter (4 Tbsp): Adds depth and richness to the sauce base.
- Yellow onion (1, diced): Adds sweetness and aromatic depth to the white sauce.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Delivers bright, savory notes that elevate the entire dish.
- All-purpose flour (¼ cup): Thickens the sauce to a silky consistency.
- Chicken broth (2 cups): Forms the flavorful liquid foundation of the creamy sauce.
- Italian seasoning (1 tsp): Adds a herby, aromatic touch to harmonize the layers.
- Garlic powder (¼ tsp): Enhances garlic flavor without overpowering.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Boosts richness and creates the luscious texture that defines this dish.
- Baby spinach (3 cups, chopped): Introduces a fresh, bright color and subtle earthiness that lighten the dish beautifully.
How to Make White Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
Start by mixing the ricotta, shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan, egg, and black pepper in a medium bowl. This luscious blend creates the creamy, cheesy layer that melts beautifully throughout the lasagna, offering that signature richness every bite needs. Set this aside for now—you’ll come back to it shortly.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken
Remove the skin from your rotisserie chicken and shred the meat with two forks. Using pre-cooked chicken not only saves you time but adds perfect tenderness and flavor, making this White Chicken Lasagna Recipe a smart, speedy choice for busy nights.
Step 3: Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles until they are tender, just shy of al dente, since they’ll cook more in the oven. Draining them carefully and laying them flat will make layering the lasagna a breeze.
Step 4: Make the White Sauce Base
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Stir in the flour, cooking until it starts to turn golden to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring the sauce remains smooth and lump-free. This homemade white sauce is where the real magic happens, creating a velvety canvas for the other ingredients.
Step 5: Season and Add Spinach
Flavor your sauce by adding Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, garlic powder, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly and then gently mix in the chopped baby spinach. The spinach wilts in beautifully, adding freshness and vibrant color to the dish while balancing the creamy richness.
Step 6: Assemble the Lasagna
Spread about one cup of the sauce over the bottom of a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Layer three noodles on top, followed by a third of the ricotta mixture, then a third of the shredded chicken. Repeat this layering two more times until all components are used, finishing with the remaining sauce and topping everything with the last 1½ cups of shredded mozzarella. This layered construction ensures every slice spoils you with a perfect blend of flavors and textures.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the assembled lasagna in a preheated 375°F oven for 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling. To achieve that irresistible golden brown, switch the oven to broil for the last 3 to 4 minutes. Keep a close watch to prevent burning. That bubbly, lightly browned cheese topping is the final crowning touch of this White Chicken Lasagna Recipe.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Let the lasagna rest briefly after baking, then garnish with chopped parsley if you like for a fresh pop of color. Slice into nine or twelve pieces and serve warm, ready for all the smiles and satisfied sighs that will come your way.
How to Serve White Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or even a few basil leaves adds a burst of color and brightness that wakes up the creamy, rich flavors. For a bit of extra indulgence, a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a dusting of parmesan can accentuate the cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
Pair this comforting, creamy lasagna with crisp green salads, such as a simple arugula with lemon vinaigrette or a crunchy Caesar salad. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts with garlic complement the richness while bringing balance to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, bake the White Chicken Lasagna Recipe in individual ramekins for personal servings that look elegant and feel special. Alternatively, build it in a clear glass dish to showcase the beautiful layers — a feast for the eyes as well as the palate!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any remaining lasagna in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This meal actually tastes even better after sitting overnight, as the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat gently for a cozy, satisfying dinner.
Freezing
White Chicken Lasagna Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or store the entire dish in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months, making it a lifesaver for busy weeks or when you want a homemade meal ready to go.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, usually about 20-25 minutes if thawed. For frozen portions, thaw overnight prior to reheating for best results. Microwaving is also an option; just cover and heat on medium power in short intervals until hot to avoid drying out the cheese layers.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken other than rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! You can use leftover baked or grilled chicken, or even poached chicken breasts. Just shred the cooked chicken to ensure it mixes well within the layers of your lasagna.
Is it necessary to boil the noodles, or can I use no-boil lasagna sheets?
You can use no-boil noodles, but make sure your white sauce is a bit thinner to allow the noodles to cook properly in the oven. Otherwise, boiling noodles ensures that they are tender and ready to absorb all those wonderful flavors.
Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?
Definitely! Feel free to add mushrooms, zucchini, or even artichoke hearts for extra texture and flavor. Just sauté them with the onion and garlic before adding the flour to the sauce.
How spicy is this White Chicken Lasagna Recipe?
This recipe is mild and comforting, focusing on creamy and savory flavors. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce if you like a little gentle heat without overpowering the dish.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
This dish relies heavily on dairy for its creamy texture and flavor, so it’s challenging to convert it directly. However, you can try dairy-free cheese substitutes and non-dairy cream alternatives, but results may vary. Using plant-based chicken substitutes can help make it vegan-friendly.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a White Chicken Lasagna Recipe that feels both decadent and fresh at the same time. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself to a comforting meal that doesn’t disappoint. Give it a try, and I promise it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes when you want that perfect creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dinner. You’re going to love every bite!
Print
White Chicken Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This creamy White Chicken Lasagna combines tender rotisserie chicken, a luscious ricotta and mozzarella cheese blend, and a savory spinach-infused white sauce. Layers of tender lasagna noodles are smothered in a rich creamy sauce, then baked to golden, bubbly perfection. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers depth of flavor with Italian seasoning and fresh spinach for a delicious twist on classic lasagna.
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
- 15 oz. whole milk ricotta
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
Chicken and Pasta
- 1 rotisserie chicken (about 3 cups cooked chicken)
- ½ Tbsp salt, for the pasta water
- 9 lasagna noodles
White Sauce
- 4 Tbsp butter
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 3 cups baby spinach, chopped
Topping
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta, shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan, egg, and freshly cracked black pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and set aside to allow flavors to meld.
- Shred Chicken: Remove the skin from the rotisserie chicken and use two forks to shred the cooked meat into bite-sized pieces, setting it aside for layering.
- Boil Lasagna Noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Add ½ tablespoon of salt, then carefully add the lasagna noodles. Cook until tender or al dente, then drain using a colander, and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté for about 4 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Make White Sauce: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for a few minutes until it turns slightly light brown. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Season and Enrich Sauce: Add Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, garlic powder, heavy cream, and ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Add Spinach: Stir the chopped baby spinach into the white sauce and cook just until the spinach wilts and is evenly distributed.
- Assemble Lasagna: In a 9×13-inch casserole dish, spread about 1 cup of the white sauce on the bottom. Lay three lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread one-third of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by one-third of the shredded chicken. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with the remaining sauce on top.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top layer of sauce.
- Bake: Place the assembled lasagna in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Broil for Color: Switch the oven to broil and cook the lasagna for an additional 3-4 minutes or until the cheese just begins to brown. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, optionally top with chopped parsley, slice into nine or twelve pieces, and serve warm. Enjoy your rich and creamy white chicken lasagna!
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor, but leftover cooked chicken works well too.
- Make sure to stir the white sauce continuously when adding broth to avoid lumps.
- Boil lasagna noodles just until tender to avoid overcooking during baking.
- Broiling at the end gives the cheese a golden, slightly crisp top—watch carefully to prevent burning.
- You can add fresh herbs like parsley or basil as garnish for extra freshness.
- This recipe can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated before baking to deepen flavors.
