Hey there, my lovely food friends! Let me take you on a little trip down memory lane today. Picture this: a cozy winter evening, the aroma of garlic and cream wafting through the house, and laughter bouncing off the walls as family gathers around the dinner table. That warm ambiance, mixed with the comfort of creamy chicken lasagna, is something that makes my soul sing. There’s something truly magical about a medley of tender chicken, gooey cheese, and the luxuriousness of white sauce nestled between velvety lasagna sheets. This Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce is my go-to recipe for those nights when you want something hearty and satisfying, but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. So, grab your apron, and let’s cook together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy weeknight dinner—it whips up with minimal fuss! 🍽️
Budget-friendly, using simple ingredients that pack a flavorful punch!
Comforting flavors that will warm your heart and your home.
Perfect for meal prep—leftovers are fantastic!
A dish the whole family will love, even the pickiest of eaters!

Ingredients

Okay, friends, here’s what you’ll need for this creamy delight:

9-12 lasagna noodles (about 1 box)
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works wonders!)
2 cups ricotta cheese
3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
4 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk (for a richer flavor, use half-and-half!)
3-4 cloves fresh garlic, minced (don’t skimp on this goodness!)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional, but it adds a lovely touch!)

Note: Fresh garlic adds more punch than powdered, so really consider using the real deal!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s nice and toasty when you pop that delicious lasagna in!
Cook the lasagna noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to avoid sticking.
Make the white sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Whisk in the flour and cook for another minute, just until it’s lightly golden. Gradually pour in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens—about 5-7 minutes. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the cheese mixture: In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, and half a cup of Parmesan. If you want to be fancy, you can add a beaten egg for extra creaminess—it’s totally optional!
Layer it up: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the white sauce on the bottom. Next, place a layer of lasagna noodles, followed by half of the shredded chicken, half of the cheese mixture, and a generous drizzle of the white sauce. Repeat layers until ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of noodles topped with the remaining sauce and mozzarella.
Bake it: Cover the dish with aluminum foil (make sure it’s not touching the cheese!). Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden and bubbly. Ah, you’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells like a little slice of heaven!
Let it rest: Once out of the oven, let your lasagna sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to settle and makes it easier to slice. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Pro Tips & Variations

Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s get a bit creative!

Spice it up: Add some red pepper flakes to the white sauce if you like a little heat!
Veggie lovers: Want to sneak in some veggies? Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini would be lovely additions.
Herby twist: Fresh basil or thyme in your cheese mixture adds a fresh garden flair.
Diet swaps: For a lighter version, swap out ricotta for cottage cheese or use low-fat mozzarella. Gluten-free pasta works well too!

Cooking is all about having fun and expressing yourself, so don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce, I love pairing it with a crisp green salad. A simple arugula and cherry tomato salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette complements the rich flavors beautifully. A loaf of warm garlic bread on the side is the cherry on top of this cozy meal. And don’t forget a nice cup of coffee or a glass of your favorite wine to wash it down! It’s the small things that make a meal complete, don’t you think?

Storage Tips

After enjoying a hearty dinner, if you find yourself with leftovers (which is always a win!), here’s how to store them:

Refrigerate: Store the lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat a portion in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freeze: You can freeze it before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it’ll keep for up to 3 months. To bake, remove from the freezer, thaw in the fridge overnight, and then bake as usual.
Reheat: For best results, reheat covered in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, rather than in the microwave. This keeps the texture nice and creamy!

FAQs

Can I use store-bought sauce instead of making the white sauce?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, using a pre-made Alfredo sauce is a great shortcut. Just pour it over your layers instead!

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can easily omit the chicken and add sautéed veggies like spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini. You’ll still get that creamy, comforting texture!

How do I know when the lasagna is fully cooked?

Look for bubbling around the edges and a nice golden brown on the cheese. A knife inserted into the center should come out hot!

Can I make this ahead of time?

You sure can! You can assemble it the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to add extra time in the oven if starting from cold!

What can I serve with lasagna?

A fresh salad, garlic bread, or a simple vegetable side dish makes for a great accompaniment. Think balance—light salads pair beautifully with the richness!

Can I use different types of cheese?

Go for it! Different types of cheese can bring in unique flavors. Goat cheese, provolone, or even a sprinkle of feta can add a lovely twist.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it—my favorite Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce recipe! I hope it warms your kitchen as much as it does mine. Cooking is a wonderful way to share love and create memories, and I can’t wait for you to try this cozy dish. It’s perfect for gathering around the table with friends or family. If you give this recipe a try, drop me a comment to let me know how it turned out! Happy cooking, and may your meals always be filled with love and laughter!