Savor the richness of our Cheesy Chicken, Spinach, and Artichoke Lasagna recipe, a decadent twist on classic comfort food. Packed with layers of savory goodness, this dish is sure to impress your family and guests alike.
Ingredients:
- 16 ounces (1 pound) lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1½ teaspoons garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups (735g) whole milk
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup (100g) parmesan cheese, grated
- 3 cups (420g) rotisserie chicken, shredded
- ½ pound frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed of excess liquid
- 1 can (15 ounces) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 container (15 ounces) whole milk ricotta cheese
- 4 cups (452g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Grated parmesan, for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish for assembly.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute. Add flour, stirring constantly, and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Simmer and Thicken: Gradually whisk in whole milk, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Add Cheese and Fillings: Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted, then incorporate shredded rotisserie chicken, thawed spinach (squeezed to remove excess liquid), and chopped artichoke hearts. Mix well to combine.
- Layer and Bake: Begin layering in the prepared baking dish: start with a thin layer of the chicken mixture, followed by lasagna noodles, ricotta cheese, more chicken mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with a generous topping of mozzarella.
- Bake to Perfection: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 5-10 minutes until the lasagna is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden. For extra browning, broil for 1-2 minutes if desired.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish the lasagna with fresh parsley and grated parmesan cheese for a finishing touch of flavor and presentation.
Nutritional Information:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 12
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving Tips:
- Presentation: Serve each portion of lasagna on a warmed plate for optimal enjoyment of its creamy layers and savory flavors.
- Accompaniments: Pair with a side salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette or garlic bread to complement the richness of the dish.
- Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and additional grated parmesan cheese over each serving for added freshness and flavor.
- Individual Portions: For gatherings, consider pre-slicing the lasagna into squares for easy serving.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or use freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for quick meals or bake larger portions covered with foil in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of Cheesy Chicken, Spinach, and Artichoke Lasagna whenever you crave a comforting and satisfying meal.
Variations:
- Mushroom Medley: Add sautéed mushrooms to the chicken mixture for an earthy flavor boost.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Twist: Incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the layers for a sweet and tangy addition.
- Pesto Perfection: Swirl pesto sauce into the ricotta cheese mixture for a burst of basil flavor.
- Italian Sausage Kick: Substitute Italian sausage for the rotisserie chicken for a hearty and flavorful variation.
- Vegetarian Delight: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a meat-free option.
- Spinach and Ricotta Rolls: Roll up the lasagna noodles with a mixture of spinach, ricotta cheese, and a touch of nutmeg for individual servings.
- Spicy Spin: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
- White Sauce Wonder: Use a white sauce (béchamel) instead of the milk-based sauce for a creamier texture.
- Spinach Artichoke Dip Inspired: Layer the lasagna with a spinach-artichoke dip mixture for a rich and indulgent twist.
- Greek Inspired: Incorporate flavors like feta cheese, olives, and a sprinkle of oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired version.
- Buffalo Chicken: Replace the rotisserie chicken with shredded buffalo chicken for a spicy twist. Add a drizzle of buffalo sauce between the layers.
- Four Cheese: Use a mix of four cheeses, such as mozzarella, provolone, fontina, and asiago, for an extra cheesy and rich lasagna.
- Alfredo Sauce: Substitute the milk-based sauce with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a richer, creamier flavor.
- Lemon and Herb: Add a touch of lemon zest and fresh herbs like basil, thyme, and rosemary to the ricotta cheese mixture for a bright and fresh flavor profile.
- Roasted Red Pepper: Incorporate chopped roasted red peppers into the chicken mixture for a sweet and smoky flavor.
- Mexican Fusion: Replace the traditional Italian seasonings with taco seasoning, and use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for a Mexican-inspired lasagna.
These variations offer a range of flavors and ingredients to customize your Cheesy Chicken, Spinach, and Artichoke Lasagna according to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy exploring these creative twists on a classic dish!
FAQs:
- Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen? Yes, you can use fresh spinach. Simply blanch it briefly in boiling water, drain well, chop, and use in place of frozen spinach. Adjust quantities as needed.
- What can I substitute for rotisserie chicken? You can use cooked, shredded chicken breasts or thighs, grilled chicken, or even leftover roasted chicken.
- Can I make this lasagna ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
- How do I prevent the lasagna noodles from sticking together? After cooking the lasagna noodles, rinse them under cold water and toss them lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Can I freeze this lasagna? Yes, this lasagna freezes well. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
- How can I make this lasagna vegetarian? Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in the sauce. Increase the amount of spinach and add more vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
- What can I serve with this lasagna? Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to complement the flavors of the dish.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as fontina, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses in place of mozzarella or ricotta.
- How do I know when the lasagna is done baking? The lasagna is done when the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out hot.
- How should I store leftover lasagna? Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake larger portions covered in foil in a preheated oven until heated through.
These FAQs provide essential tips and information to ensure your Cheesy Chicken, Spinach, and Artichoke Lasagna turns out perfectly every time, catering to various preferences and dietary considerations.
Delight in the creamy, cheesy layers of our Cheesy Chicken, Spinach, and Artichoke Lasagna for a comforting meal that satisfies every palate. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe brings together flavors that are sure to please.