Creamy Chicken Lasagna

Preparation Time:

• Prep: 30 minutes
• Cook: 1 hour
• Total: 1 hour 30 minutes

Intensity:

• Moderate

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Mixture:

• 1.5 pounds (about 700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup spinach, chopped (optional)
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and white pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Other Ingredients:

• 9 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
• 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

Instructions:

1. Prepare Chicken Mixture:
   • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until softened.
   • Add shredded chicken, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until flavors meld. Add chopped spinach and mushrooms if using. Set aside.
2. Make Creamy Sauce:
   • In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously to make a roux.
   • Gradually pour in the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens.
   • Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt, white pepper, and nutmeg if using.
3. Assemble Lasagna:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
   • In a greased baking dish, spread a thin layer of the creamy sauce.
   • Place three cooked lasagna noodles on top.
   • Add half of the chicken mixture, followed by a layer of mozzarella cheese, and a portion of the creamy sauce.
   • Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
4. Bake:
   • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
5. Rest and Serve:
   • Allow the creamy chicken lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
   • Serve warm and enjoy!

Note:

• Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other vegetables or using a different cheese blend.
• You can use no-boil lasagna noodles to save some time.

This Creamy Chicken Lasagna is a delightful and indulgent dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Enjoy the rich layers of flavor!