Creamy White Lasagna with Chicken

There’s something incredibly comforting about a classic lasagna, but today, let’s take it up a notch. This Creamy White Lasagna with Chicken swaps the traditional tomato sauce for a luscious béchamel that coats each layer with silky richness. Tender, shredded chicken mingles with creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, all layered with fresh spinach and perfectly cooked noodles. It’s a dish that feels indulgent without being heavy, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or a special meal to impress guests. Ready to dive into a new lasagna experience? Let’s get started!

Why This Recipe Works

This Creamy White Lasagna with Chicken strikes the perfect balance between creamy and cheesy, with the béchamel sauce replacing the usual tomato base for a smoother, milder flavor that lets the chicken and cheese shine. Using cooked, shredded chicken keeps the preparation simple and quick, while fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition. The blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates layers of melty, savory goodness that tie everything together beautifully. Plus, with just nine lasagna noodles, this recipe is perfectly portioned for a medium-sized casserole dish, ensuring each slice holds together well without being too dense or heavy.

Gather These Ingredients

• 9 lasagna noodles – cooked according to package instructions
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken – rotisserie chicken works great here
• 1 cup ricotta cheese – creamy and mild
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded – for that melty, gooey texture
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated – adds sharp, savory notes
• 2 cups fresh spinach – rinsed and roughly chopped
• 3 cups béchamel sauce – a simple white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – for a touch of aromatic depth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the garlic and spinach

Recommended Tools

• Large pot – to boil the lasagna noodles
• Skillet or sauté pan – for cooking the garlic and spinach
• Mixing bowls – for combining cheeses and chicken
• 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for layering the lasagna
• Whisk – to prepare the béchamel sauce smoothly
• Spatula or wooden spoon – for stirring and layering
• Aluminum foil – to cover the lasagna while baking

Creamy White Lasagna with Chicken, Made Easy

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles and Spinach

Cook the nine lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a lightly oiled baking sheet to prevent sticking. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Toss in the fresh spinach and cook until just wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Béchamel Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in ¼ cup all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until it turns a light golden color. Gradually whisk in 3 cups of warm milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Remove from heat once it reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.

Step 3: Mix the Cheese and Chicken Filling

In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded chicken, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a little Italian seasoning. Gently fold in the sautéed spinach and garlic mixture. This filling will bring the rich creaminess and savory chicken flavor to every bite.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Lay three lasagna noodles over the sauce, slightly overlapping. Spread one-third of the chicken and cheese mixture over the noodles, then drizzle with béchamel sauce. Repeat this layering process two more times: noodles, filling, sauce. Finish with a final layer of noodles topped generously with the remaining béchamel sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the lasagna tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. Let the lasagna rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing – this helps everything set beautifully and makes cutting easier.

Seasonal Adaptations

• Spring: Add fresh peas or asparagus tips to the spinach layer for a bright, seasonal touch.
• Summer: Incorporate thinly sliced zucchini or summer squash for extra veggies and texture.
• Fall: Swap spinach for sautéed kale or Swiss chard to embrace heartier greens.
• Winter: Stir in roasted mushrooms or caramelized onions for a cozy, earthy flavor.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

• Skipping the béchamel consistency check: If the sauce is too thin, the lasagna will be watery; too thick, and it can be gluey. Aim for a smooth, pourable texture.
• Overcooking noodles: Overly soft noodles can fall apart during assembly. Cook just until al dente and cool immediately.
• Not resting the lasagna: Cutting into the lasagna too soon causes it to lose its structure. Patience is key!
• Using cold ingredients: Bring cheeses and milk to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps and uneven melting.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

After baking, let your Creamy White Lasagna with Chicken cool for at least 10 minutes to set properly. To store, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the lasagna in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish covered with foil in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes until heated through. Adding a splash of milk or béchamel sauce before reheating helps maintain creaminess.

Reader Q&A

Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Absolutely! You can use cooked turkey, shredded beef, or even a plant-based chicken substitute if you prefer. Just ensure it’s shredded or chopped finely to layer easily with the cheeses and sauce.

Is it necessary to use fresh spinach, or can I use frozen?

Fresh spinach works best because it retains its texture and color after cooking. However, if using frozen, be sure to thaw and squeeze out all the excess water before sautéing to avoid a watery lasagna.

How do I make the béchamel sauce dairy-free?

You can replace the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine, and use unsweetened almond, soy, or oat milk instead of regular milk. Keep the flour the same to achieve the right thickness. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I prepare this lasagna in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the lasagna a day ahead, cover it tightly, and keep it refrigerated until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled straight from the fridge.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Baked Four Cheese Lasagna Roll Ups – A cheesy twist on traditional lasagna that’s easy to portion.
• Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne – A creamy, cheesy pasta bake with tender chicken pieces.
• Roasted Vegetable Lasagna – Loaded with seasonal veggies and a light béchamel sauce for a veggie-forward dish.
• Spinach and Mushroom White Lasagna – A meatless option featuring earthy mushrooms and fresh greens in a creamy sauce.

The Takeaway

This Creamy White Lasagna with Chicken is a celebration of comfort food done right — creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and fresh spinach. The béchamel sauce adds an elegant touch, making it stand out from your typical red-sauce lasagna. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or looking to impress at your next dinner party, this recipe delivers every time. Plus, with the easy-to-follow steps and versatile ingredients, you can tailor it to suit your taste and seasonal availability. Don’t forget to check out other delicious, cheesy pasta dishes like the Baked Four Cheese Lasagna Roll Ups or the hearty Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne for more cozy dinner ideas. Now, grab your apron and get ready to dig into layers of creamy, cheesy, chicken-filled goodness!

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