When it comes to comfort food that satisfies both the soul and the schedule, this chicken lasagna recipe hits all the right notes. Combining tender shredded chicken with a luscious spinach cream sauce and a rich ricotta cheese layer, it’s a meal that feels indulgent without being overwhelming.
The secret? Using shredded rotisserie chicken cuts down on prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends alike.
Lasagna can sometimes intimidate home cooks, but layering this dish with velvety spinach cream and that melty mozzarella topping turns it into a crowd-pleaser that’s actually quite approachable.
The blend of creamy textures with the subtle garlic and fresh spinach creates a balanced flavor profile that’s both comforting and light. Plus, it’s trending because people crave familiar flavors with a fresh twist that feels homemade but saves time.
This recipe fits beautifully with a crisp, refreshing Caesar Salad and pairs effortlessly with a fruity, Sparkling White Sangria, making your meal feel special without extra fuss.
Make sure to cook your noodles al dente—that bite makes all the difference. The creamy layers, the savory chicken, and the bubbling cheese topping? Simply irresistible.
I’d love to hear how you make this your own—add your twists or share your favorite sides!
Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will Too!)
- Shredded rotisserie chicken makes this weeknight-friendly: Saves me hours while still tasting like I spent all day in the kitchen.
- Spinach cream sauce adds freshness and depth: It’s my way of sneaking in greens without losing that comforting creaminess.
- The ricotta-egg-parmesan mix creates a luscious, fluffy layer: It reminds me of homemade lasagna from my childhood but with less fuss.
- It fits perfectly into my meal-prep routine: I make a big batch and enjoy leftovers that reheat beautifully.
- It feels indulgent but keeps me satisfied without heaviness: Great for staying on track with balanced eating without missing out on flavor.
Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot (for boiling noodles)
- Large skillet or saucepan (for spinach cream sauce)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Baking dish (9×13 inches recommended)
- Spoon or spatula
- Cheese grater (optional, for parmesan)
Ingredients
Chicken Lasagna Ingredients:
- 9 lasagna noodles cooked al dente
- 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked from 2 lbs chicken breast
Spinach Cream Sauce:
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups half and half (or equal parts of heavy cream and milk)
- 5 oz fresh spinach coarsely chopped
- 2 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3 garlic cloves minced
Ricotta Cheese Sauce:
- 15 oz ricotta
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup parsley
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese 12 oz by weight, divided (reserve 1 cup for topping)
Instructions
- Cook lasagna noodles al dente according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Prepare the spinach cream sauce: sauté onion and garlic in olive oil and butter, whisk in flour, then gradually add chicken broth and half-and-half; stir in spinach, salt, and pepper.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, egg, parsley, and parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In the baking dish, layer noodles, shredded chicken, spinach cream sauce, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese—repeat layers.
- Top with reserved mozzarella cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 337kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 24g |
| Protein | 18g |
| Fat | 19g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Sodium | 670mg |
Next-Level Variations To Elevate Your Recipe!
- Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a heartier green. These greens add a slightly earthier flavor and stand up well to the creamy sauce, giving your lasagna a bit more texture and depth.
- Add a touch of nutmeg or smoked paprika to the spinach cream sauce. A subtle hint of warming spice can enhance the richness without overpowering the dish, creating a more complex flavor profile.
- Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or caramelized shallots into the layers. These add an umami boost and a slight sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese and tender chicken.
- Try blending part of the ricotta mixture with goat cheese. It adds a tangy creaminess that cuts through the richness and introduces a lovely dimension to the cheese layer.
- Use homemade chicken stock instead of broth for the sauce. This deepens the flavor and makes the sauce feel more luxurious and fresh.
- Finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or oregano just before serving. It brightens the dish and adds a fresh, aromatic contrast to the warm, cheesy layers.
These tweaks can help personalize the recipe and keep it exciting each time you make it! Want tips for keto or gluten-free versions? Just ask.
Quick Questions?
Q: Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Ans: Absolutely! It’s a great time-saver and works perfectly shredded in this recipe.
Q: What can I substitute for half-and-half in the spinach cream sauce?
Ans: You can use equal parts milk and heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free twist.
Q: How do I prevent the lasagna from getting too watery?
Ans: Make sure to drain cooked noodles well and avoid adding extra liquid to the sauce. Let the lasagna rest before slicing.
Q: Can I prepare this lasagna ahead of time?
Ans: Yes! Assemble it a day before and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q: Is it okay to freeze leftovers?
Ans: Definitely. Cool completely, portion into airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
