White Chicken Lasagna (with Gluten-Free Option)

Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the creamy, cheesy goodness of lasagna. A classic favorite, lasagna is often associated with hearty Italian meals shared with family and friends. However, this White Chicken Lasagna takes things up a notch, with its rich ricotta and mozzarella layers, a velvety white sauce, and tender chicken. Whether you’re craving something indulgent or simply looking to impress guests, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. My family absolutely loved it when I made it for the first time. The creamy sauce and combination of flavors won everyone over, and the best part? There’s a gluten-free option to cater to various dietary preferences, which made it even more versatile. The addition of fresh basil and balsamic glaze gives it a nice touch of brightness and acidity that really elevates the overall flavor profile. Whether you stick to the traditional version or go gluten-free, this lasagna will not disappoint!

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Ingredients

For the Ricotta Layer:

• 2 lbs ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 stick butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free all-purpose flour)
• 4 cups milk (whole milk recommended)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 2 cups packed spinach
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

For Layering:

• 1 1/2 cups additional mozzarella cheese
• 1 box oven-ready lasagna noodles (gluten-free option available)
• 2 cooked chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 20 halved cherry tomatoes
• Fresh basil for garnish
• Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)

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Instructions

Prepare the Ricotta Layer:

1. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated. Set aside.

Make the Sauce:

2. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Stir in flour to create a roux. Whisk constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Gradually add the milk, continuing to whisk as the sauce thickens. Once fully incorporated, add the heavy cream and bring to a gentle boil, stirring often.
5. Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the shredded mozzarella, spinach, salt, pepper, and chopped basil. Stir until the cheese has melted and the spinach wilts. Remove from heat.

Assemble the Lasagna:

6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread a few ladles of sauce over the bottom.
8. Add a layer of oven-ready lasagna noodles over the sauce.
9. Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then layer one-third of the cooked chicken pieces, followed by one-third of the remaining sauce.
10. Repeat this layering process (noodles, ricotta, chicken, sauce) two more times, finishing with a final layer of sauce on top.
11. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top and scatter the halved cherry tomatoes.

Bake:

12. Place the lasagna dish on a cookie sheet (to catch any potential overflow) and bake for 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
13. If the lasagna is browning too quickly, loosely cover the dish with foil for the remaining cooking time.

Cool and Garnish:

14. Let the lasagna cool for 10-20 minutes before serving.
15. Top with fresh basil and drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavor and visual appeal.

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Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 slice (based on 12 servings)
Calories per Serving: ~430 calories
Total Fat: 25g

• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
  Cholesterol: 95mg
  Sodium: 560mg
  Total Carbohydrates: 31g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 6g
  Protein: 23g
  Vitamin A: 15%
  Vitamin C: 10%
  Calcium: 25%
  Iron: 8%

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Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

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How to Serve

• Garnish: Fresh basil and balsamic glaze for a pop of color and extra flavor.
• Side Dishes:
• A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Garlic bread or gluten-free garlic bread if you’re following a gluten-free diet.
• Roasted vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus) to complement the rich flavors of the lasagna.
• A glass of crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, to balance the creamy richness of the lasagna.

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Additional Tips

1. Make-Ahead Option: This lasagna can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Gluten-Free Version: Be sure to use gluten-free oven-ready lasagna noodles and gluten-free flour in the sauce for a completely gluten-free meal.
3. Chicken Substitutes: Try swapping the chicken for ground turkey or even a vegetarian version with mushrooms or tofu for a different twist.
4. Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses, such as gouda or fontina, for added depth of flavor in the sauce.
5. Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

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Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian White Lasagna: Skip the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. For extra protein, you can add a layer of lentils or beans.
• Spicy Chicken Lasagna: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce or layer in some sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Pesto Chicken Lasagna: Stir in a tablespoon or two of pesto into the ricotta layer for an extra burst of basil flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

• As a Main Dish: White Chicken Lasagna is hearty enough to be served on its own as the star of the meal.
• For a Potluck: This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd at a family gathering, party, or potluck event. Just double the recipe and bring a large pan.
• With Soup: Pair it with a light soup, such as tomato basil or a vegetable minestrone, to start the meal with a lighter touch before diving into the rich lasagna.

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Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: To freeze, assemble the lasagna in a baking dish but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 1.5 hours, or until bubbly and golden brown.
• Refrigerating: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

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FAQ

1. Can I use regular lasagna noodles instead of oven-ready?
   Yes, you can use regular noodles, but make sure to cook them according to package instructions before assembling the lasagna.
2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
   You can try substituting dairy-free ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, and using almond or oat milk instead of whole milk. The sauce may have a slightly different texture, but it will still be delicious.
3. How do I prevent the lasagna from being too watery?
   Be sure to drain the spinach well before adding it to the sauce, and use a slotted spoon to layer the ricotta mixture to avoid excess liquid.
4. Can I make this lasagna without chicken?
   Absolutely! You can make a vegetarian version by adding extra veggies or substituting with another protein like tofu or mushrooms.
5. How can I make the sauce thicker?
   If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply cook the roux (flour and butter mixture) a little longer or add a little extra cheese to the sauce.
6. Can I use frozen spinach?
   Yes, frozen spinach works fine. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before adding it to the sauce.
7. Can I double this recipe?
   Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled for a larger crowd. Just be sure to use a bigger baking dish and adjust cooking times if necessary.
8. How long can I store leftovers?
   Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months.
9. Can I use heavy whipping cream instead of heavy cream?
   Yes, heavy whipping cream can be used interchangeably with heavy cream for the sauce.

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. How can I make the lasagna spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.

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Conclusion

This White Chicken Lasagna is the perfect comfort food that combines rich, creamy layers of cheese and sauce with tender chicken and fresh spinach. The recipe is versatile, with a gluten-free option and variations to suit all tastes. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this lasagna is sure to impress. With its perfect balance of cheesy goodness, fresh ingredients, and just the right amount of comfort, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy!

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