If you have ever dreamed of combining the rich creaminess of Alfredo sauce with the comforting layers of a classic Italian lasagna, this Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Recipe will become your new go-to dish. Bursting with tender shredded chicken, gooey mozzarella, and that incredible homemade Alfredo sauce, this recipe is a celebration of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds sing. It’s both hearty and elegant, perfect for family dinners or impressing guests with something a little different but utterly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the secret behind the marvelous taste and texture of this Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Recipe. Each element, from the creamy cheese to the perfectly seasoned sauce, plays a crucial role in bringing this dish to life.
- 9 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil): These create the essential layers that hold everything together beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps in preventing noodles from sticking if you boil them.
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken: The star protein that brings heartiness and tender bites to every slice.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Used to create the base of the creamy Alfredo sauce for that velvety texture.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers fragrant warmth in the sauce, elevating every bite.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce so it clings to every layer perfectly.
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk: Provides the smooth and creamy body of the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds luscious richness, making the Alfredo sauce decadently creamy.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Injects sharp, salty flavor that balances the cream beautifully.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that brings a touch of herbaceous magic.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick for a well-rounded taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional): Gives a delicate warmth that complements the creamy sauce.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, stretchy cheese that top and layer the dish perfectly.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds a creamy, slightly tangy layer for a lovely textural contrast.
- 1/2 cup chopped spinach (optional): Brings a pop of color and a nutritious touch without overwhelming flavors.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Freshens the final presentation with a vibrant green and mild herb flavor.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions if you’re not using no-boil noodles. Once cooked, drain them carefully to avoid breakage, then set aside. This step ensures your pasta layers are tender but still hold their structure through baking.
Step 2: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then add minced garlic and cook just until fragrant—about 1 minute. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute to form a smooth roux; this step is crucial to thicken your sauce perfectly. Slowly whisk in the milk and cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer while whisking frequently until it thickens, usually 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg to create a gorgeously creamy, flavorful Alfredo sauce.
Step 3: Combine Chicken and Ricotta Mixtures
In a large bowl, toss the shredded chicken with half a cup of the Alfredo sauce—this keeps the chicken moist and flavorful throughout the layers. In another small bowl, gently combine ricotta cheese with the chopped spinach, if using, to brighten the dish and add a subtle fresh note to the cheese layer.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. Layer your noodles first, then spread one-third of the ricotta mixture evenly, followed by one-third of the chicken, a handful of mozzarella cheese, and a ladle of Alfredo sauce. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with a final layer of noodles, sauce, and mozzarella cheese on top. This layering builds those irresistible creamy, cheesy pockets throughout your lasagna.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the assembled dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time lets the layers set so every piece remains beautifully intact when served.
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a lovely burst of color and a hint of fresh herbaceousness that brightens this rich dish perfectly. It’s the simple touches like this that make the Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Recipe really feel special at the table.
Side Dishes
Pair this creamy delight with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables. The acidity and crunch from fresh greens complement the richness of the lasagna superbly and provide a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in small ramekins for a charming, personalized look at dinner parties. Or layer your lasagna in clear glass dishes for a stunning visual effect, showing off all those layered treasures of cheese, chicken, and sauce. Both options elevate the experience and add a little wow factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Recipe in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It remains creamy and delicious, perfect for savoring later without losing any of its fresh flavors.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked assembled lasagna by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It keeps well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking to enjoy that fresh-from-the-oven goodness anytime.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwaving works great for single servings, just heat in short intervals until warmed through, keeping the sauce luscious and gooey.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds great flavor and saves prep time. Just shred it and you’re ready to go.
Is it necessary to use both milk and heavy cream in the Alfredo sauce?
Using both keeps the sauce creamy and rich without being too heavy. Milk adds smoothness while cream provides that luxurious thickness everyone loves.
Can I add vegetables to the Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Recipe?
Yes, adding chopped spinach is a popular choice, and you can also mix in mushrooms or broccoli for extra nutrients and texture.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for the roux. This way, you keep all the flavor without the gluten.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Cover the lasagna with foil while reheating in the oven or add a splash of milk before microwaving to maintain moisture and creaminess.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Recipe is truly a delightful twist on two beloved dishes, marrying creamy Alfredo sauce with the layered goodness of lasagna. Every bite is rich, comforting, and packed with flavor, making it a reliable crowd-pleaser for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience this creamy, cheesy comfort food magic for yourself!
Print
Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Recipe is a rich and creamy twist on traditional lasagna, featuring layers of tender lasagna noodles, shredded chicken, spinach-infused ricotta, and a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce. Baked to perfection with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, this Italian-American comfort dish is perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Lasagna
- 9 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped spinach (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish
For the Alfredo Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Noodles: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re not using no-boil noodles, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make Alfredo Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in flour to form a roux and cook for another minute. Slowly whisk in whole milk and heavy cream until the sauce is smooth. Continue whisking frequently for 4–5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg.
- Prepare Filling Mixtures: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken with 1/2 cup of the Alfredo sauce to keep it moist and flavorful. In another bowl, mix together ricotta cheese with chopped spinach if using, creating a creamy, green-infused filling.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. Arrange a layer of noodles over the sauce, then evenly spread one-third of the ricotta mixture, one-third of the chicken mixture, a handful of shredded mozzarella cheese, and a ladle of Alfredo sauce. Repeat these layers two more times, and finish with a final layer of noodles, the remaining Alfredo sauce, and the remaining mozzarella on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes after taking it out of the oven to help it set. Garnish with chopped parsley before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.
- Add mushrooms or broccoli to the layers for extra vegetables.
- This lasagna can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
