Introduction
If you’re craving something rich, cheesy, and heartwarming, White Cheese Chicken Lasagna is the perfect dish to satisfy that craving. Imagine layers of tender noodles, juicy chicken, creamy white sauce, melted mozzarella, and a hint of herbs—like a warm hug on a chilly evening.
This recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also easy to prepare, even if you’re not a kitchen pro. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this lasagna will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This White Cheese Chicken Lasagna isn’t your ordinary lasagna—it’s a lighter, creamier twist on the classic red sauce version. Instead of tomato-based sauce, this dish features a velvety white sauce infused with garlic, butter, and herbs.
You’ll love it because:
It’s comfort food at its finest.
It’s perfect for meal prep or family gatherings.
It’s freezer-friendly and easy to reheat.
It combines protein, dairy, and greens in one satisfying meal.
Ingredients Overview
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious lasagna:
9 lasagna noodles
½ cup butter
1 onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 ½ cups milk
1 teaspoon salt
4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups cubed, cooked chicken meat
2 (10-ounce) packages frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Essential Kitchen Tools
Before you start, make sure you have the right tools:
Large pot for boiling noodles
Saucepan for preparing the white sauce
Whisk for smooth sauce texture
9×13 inch baking dish
Aluminum foil for baking
Spatula or large spoon for layering
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Let’s break down the process so you can easily follow along.
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Cook Noodles
Boil the lasagna noodles in salted water for 8–10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
Step 3: Prepare Sauce
Melt butter in a saucepan. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft.
Whisk in the flour and cook until lightly browned. Gradually add chicken broth, milk, and salt. Stir in 2 cups mozzarella and ¼ cup Parmesan until melted. Season with basil, oregano, and black pepper.
Step 4: Assemble Lasagna
Spread one-third of the sauce on the bottom of your baking dish.
Add 3 noodles, then spread half of the ricotta. Add half the chicken and spinach, then sprinkle 1 cup mozzarella and ¼ cup Parmesan.
Repeat the layers, ending with noodles and sauce on top.
Step 5: Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an extra 10 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for Perfect White Cheese Chicken Lasagna
Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother, creamier texture.
Don’t overcook noodles—they’ll continue to cook in the oven.
Drain spinach well to avoid watery lasagna.
Let it rest before cutting; this helps layers hold together beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping the cooling time: Cutting too soon causes layers to fall apart.
Too much sauce: Makes the lasagna soggy.
Undercooked flour: Ensure the roux (butter-flour mix) cooks long enough for a nutty aroma.
Not seasoning layers: Taste your sauce and fillings—seasoning makes a big difference.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
Want to make it your own? Try these ideas:
Swap chicken with turkey or rotisserie chicken for a quick version.
Use low-fat milk or cream for a lighter or richer sauce.
Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for a flavor boost.
Replace ricotta with cottage cheese if you prefer a different texture.
How to Make It Ahead of Time
You can assemble this lasagna up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge 30 minutes beforehand.
If you’re freezing it:
Wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Bake directly from frozen—just add 20 minutes to the baking time.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot.
Freeze: Cool completely before freezing. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your White Cheese Chicken Lasagna with:
Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
Fresh green salad with Italian dressing
Chilled white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio
It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even Sunday meal prep.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Sodium | 880 mg |
| Fiber | 3 g |
(Note: Nutrition values may vary based on ingredients used.)
Conclusion
In a world full of tomato-based lasagnas, White Cheese Chicken Lasagna stands out as a creamy, comforting alternative that feels both indulgent and homey. It’s like the culinary equivalent of your favorite cozy blanket—warm, satisfying, and made with love.
Whether you’re feeding a family or impressing guests, this lasagna never disappoints. Simple ingredients, easy steps, and that heavenly cheese pull—what more could you ask for?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make White Cheese Chicken Lasagna without spinach?
Yes! You can skip spinach or replace it with mushrooms, kale, or zucchini for a veggie twist.
2. How can I make the sauce thicker?
Cook the roux (flour and butter mixture) a bit longer before adding liquids, and let the sauce simmer until it thickens naturally.
3. What’s the best cheese combination for this lasagna?
A mix of mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta provides the best texture and flavor balance.
4. Can I use pre-cooked noodles?
Yes, oven-ready noodles work fine—just ensure the sauce is slightly thinner to help them soften properly.
5. How long does White Cheese Chicken Lasagna last in the fridge?
Stored properly, it lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
