Chicken Alfredo Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, combining the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce with the heartiness of lasagna. I remember the first time I made this dish—it was for a family gathering where I wanted to impress everyone with something familiar yet a little different from the usual. The result? Clean plates and plenty of requests for the recipe! This dish is perfect for those moments when you crave something cheesy, creamy, and indulgent. It’s a delicious twist on traditional lasagna, and it’s guaranteed to be a hit whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for a cozy dinner at home.
The secret to a good Chicken Alfredo Lasagna lies in its layers. Each one should bring something special to the table: the tender lasagna noodles, the creamy ricotta, the flavorful chicken, and of course, that luscious Alfredo sauce that ties everything together. The process is straightforward, but the result is a dish that feels luxurious and tastes even better the next day. Whether you’re a lasagna pro or a first-timer, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup
- Heavy cream: 2 cups
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1 1/2 cups
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste
For the Lasagna:
- Lasagna noodles: 9, cooked according to package instructions
- Cooked chicken: 2 cups, shredded or diced
- Ricotta cheese: 2 cups
- Large egg: 1
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 2 cups
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup
- Fresh spinach: 2 cups, chopped (optional)
- Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
While the oven is heating up, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Make sure to drain them well and set them aside, laying them flat to prevent sticking.
3. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant—be careful not to let it burn. Pour in the heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, continuing to stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Once the sauce is done, remove it from heat and set it aside.
4. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and the egg, mixing until well combined. This mixture acts as the creamy base of the lasagna. If you’re adding spinach for an extra boost of greens, stir in the chopped spinach at this stage.
5. Assemble the Lasagna:
Now comes the layering, which is the most fun part. Start by spreading a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This will help keep the noodles from sticking and add flavor to the base. Lay three lasagna noodles over the sauce, ensuring they cover the bottom of the dish.
Next, spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles, followed by half of the shredded chicken. Drizzle a portion of the Alfredo sauce over the chicken, and then sprinkle with a third of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
Repeat these layers: three more lasagna noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, the remaining chicken, more Alfredo sauce, and another third of the mozzarella cheese. Finish with the final three lasagna noodles, spreading the remaining Alfredo sauce over the top. Sprinkle with the last of the mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from browning too quickly, and bake in your preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. This step ensures a beautiful, crispy top layer.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, allow the lasagna to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to serve. Just before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips and Variations:
- Make it ahead: You can prepare this lasagna in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just increase the baking time by about 10 minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
- Add veggies: If you want to include more vegetables, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the layers.
- Use rotisserie chicken: For a quick and easy option, use shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and ensure your Parmesan cheese is gluten-free.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze the lasagna?
A: Yes, Chicken Alfredo Lasagna freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 350°F until heated through.
Q: Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?
A: If you’re not a fan of ricotta, you can use cottage cheese or even mascarpone for a creamier texture.
Q: How can I make the Alfredo sauce lighter?
A: To lighten up the Alfredo sauce, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. The sauce will still be creamy but with fewer calories.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: The best way to reheat leftover lasagna is in the oven at 350°F. Cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out and heat until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, though the texture may be a bit softer.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Chicken Alfredo Lasagna with a crisp Caesar salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal. A light white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce and chicken.
This Chicken Alfredo Lasagna is a crowd-pleaser, combining the best of lasagna with the rich flavors of Alfredo sauce. It’s creamy, cheesy, and comforting—perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special event, it’s sure to be a hit. And don’t forget, the leftovers are just as delicious!