Introduction

This Ultimate Creamy Chicken Lasagna is the easy, comforting dinner you’ve been craving. It layers tender chicken, rich cheeses, and a velvety sauce between pasta for a decadent twist on a classic. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or making ahead for busy nights. For another simple pasta favorite, try this Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe.

Ingredients

This creamy chicken lasagna recipe layers rich, savory flavors with tender pasta and a trio of melty cheeses for the ultimate comfort food experience.

• 12 uncooked lasagna noodles (12 oz)
• 1 tablespoon butter or margarine
• 3/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 3/4 cup chopped onions (1 1/2 medium)
• 1/3 cup milk
• 2 cans (10 3/4 oz each) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil leaves
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 container (12 oz) small-curd cottage cheese
• 3 cups diced cooked chicken
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (8 oz)
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (4 oz)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Timing

Prep Time	30 minutes
Cook Time	45 minutes
Total Time	1 hour 15 minutes

Context: This Creamy Chicken Lasagna recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes, thanks to its simplified layering and no-boil noodle method.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Chicken Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast, seasoned with salt and pepper, until no longer pink in the center (165°F internal temperature). Shred the cooked chicken using two forks and set it aside. For extra flavor, you can use a rotisserie chicken to save time.

Step 2 — Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in 3 cups of milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded mozzarella and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of nutmeg.

Step 3 — Combine Chicken and Sauce

Pour about two-thirds of the creamy cheese sauce into the bowl with the shredded chicken. Stir thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated. This mixture will be the rich, cheesy layer of your Creamy Chicken Lasagna.

Step 4 — Assemble the Lasagna Layers

Spread a thin layer of the remaining plain cheese sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place a layer of oven-ready lasagna noodles over the sauce. Top with half of the creamy chicken mixture, spreading it evenly.

Repeat the layers: noodles, the remaining chicken mixture, then a final layer of noodles. Finish by pouring the rest of the plain cheese sauce over the top, ensuring all noodles are covered to prevent drying out.

Step 5 — Add the Final Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the top of the assembled lasagna with an additional 1 to 1.5 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. For a golden, bubbly finish, a sprinkle of Parmesan works beautifully here too.

Step 6 — Cover and Bake

Tightly cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 35 minutes. The foil traps steam, which helps cook the noodles perfectly without the top browning too quickly.

Step 7 — Uncover and Brown

Carefully remove the foil. Return the Creamy Chicken Lasagna to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and spotty golden brown.

Step 8 — Rest Before Serving

Let the lasagna rest on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes after baking. This crucial step allows the layers to set, making it much easier to cut clean, beautiful portions that hold their shape.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~520 kcal
Protein	~38 g
Carbohydrates	~32 g
Fat	~26 g
Fiber	~3 g
Sodium	~850 mg

Note: These values are estimates for one serving of this creamy chicken lasagna, based on typical ingredients and portion size. Actual nutrition can vary depending on specific brands and measurements used.

Healthier Alternatives

This classic Creamy Chicken Lasagna is wonderfully adaptable. Here are simple ingredient swaps to tailor it to your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

• Protein Swap: Ground Turkey — A leaner alternative to chicken that still provides a savory, mild flavor perfect for absorbing the creamy sauce.
• Lower-Carb Option: Zucchini or Eggplant Slices — Replace traditional lasagna noodles with thin, grilled slices for a vegetable-forward, gluten-free version.
• Dairy-Free Creaminess: Cashew Cream or Vegan Béchamel — Blend soaked cashews with broth or use a plant-based milk and flour roux for a rich, lactose-free sauce.
• Gluten-Free Noodles — Use certified gluten-free lasagna sheets made from rice or corn flour to keep the classic layered texture.
• Low-Sodium Version: Homemade Sauce & Fresh Herbs — Skip canned cream soups and use a homemade béchamel with low-sodium broth, boosting flavor with fresh rosemary or thyme.
• Lighter Cheese: Part-Skim Ricotta & Reduced-Fat Mozzarella — These cuts down on saturated fat while maintaining the essential melty, cheesy quality of the dish.
• Boost Veggies: Spinach or Mushrooms — Layer in sautéed spinach or finely chopped mushrooms with the chicken filling for added nutrients and an earthy depth.
• Alternative Flour: Whole Wheat Lasagna Noodles — For a fiber-rich option that adds a nutty flavor and more substance to each bite.

Serving Suggestions

This rich and comforting Creamy Chicken Lasagna is a complete meal, but the right pairings and presentation can elevate it from a simple dinner to a memorable occasion.

• Perfect Pairings: Balance the richness with a crisp, bright side. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad works wonderfully. For a vegetable side, try roasted asparagus, garlic green beans, or steamed broccoli.
• Ideal Occasions: This dish is perfect for family Sunday dinners, potlucks where it travels well, and holiday gatherings like Christmas Eve or Easter. It’s also a fantastic make-ahead meal for busy weeks.
• Bread on the Side: No pasta dish is complete without bread for soaking up the sauce. Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread, soft dinner rolls, or a loaf of focaccia.
• Plating Tips: Use a sharp knife to cut clean portions. Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil and a light dusting of grated Parmesan for a restaurant-quality finish.
• Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce, while a light red like Pinot Noir pairs nicely with the chicken and herbs.
• Leftover Magic: Leftover Creamy Chicken Lasagna tastes even better the next day. Reheat individual portions in the oven or air fryer to restore the crispy top edges.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using dry, overcooked chicken breast. Fix: Poach or shred a rotisserie chicken for guaranteed moist, tender meat.
• Mistake: A watery, runny sauce that makes layers soggy. Fix: Thicken your béchamel properly and thoroughly drain any cooked spinach or mushrooms.
• Mistake: Not seasoning each component. Fix: Season the chicken, the sauce, and the vegetables individually for deep, layered flavor.
• Mistake: Using no-boil noodles without extra sauce. Fix: Add ½ cup extra liquid (broth or milk) to the dish, as these noodles absorb more moisture.
• Mistake: Skipping the resting time after baking. Fix: Let your creamy chicken lasagna rest for 15–20 minutes; this allows the layers to set for clean slices.
• Mistake: Overloading with cheese, causing greasiness. Fix: Use a balanced blend (ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan) and measure for perfect melt and structure.
• Mistake: Undercooking the roux for the béchamel. Fix: Cook flour and butter for a full minute to eliminate raw flour taste in your creamy sauce.
• Mistake: Forgetting to cover with foil for part of the bake. Fix: Cover for the first 30 minutes to prevent the top from burning before the center is hot.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool your Creamy Chicken Lasagna completely, then cover tightly or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual portions or the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or use a freezer-safe container. This creamy chicken lasagna freezes well for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat covered in a 350°F (175°C) oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 20-30 minutes for a full dish. Add a splash of broth or water to maintain creaminess. Microwave single portions in 60-second intervals, stirring in between.

Always use a food thermometer to ensure your reheated lasagna reaches the safe temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken Lasagna is a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. For more family-friendly pasta dishes, try our Classic Lasagna Recipe or Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe. We hope you love this recipe—please leave a comment with your review and subscribe for more weekly dinner ideas!

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Creamy Chicken Lasagna

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A comforting and creamy chicken lasagna made with layers of tender lasagna noodles, seasoned chicken, and a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfect for a hearty family dinner.

• Author: Dorothy Miller
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x
• Method: Main Course
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 uncooked lasagna noodles (12 oz)
• 1 tablespoon butter or margarine
• 3/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 3/4 cup chopped onions (1 1/2 medium)
• 1/3 cup milk
• 2 cans (10 3/4 oz each) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil leaves
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 container (12 oz) small-curd cottage cheese
• 3 cups diced cooked chicken
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (8 oz)
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (4 oz)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Heat oven to 350°F. Spray bottom and sides of 13×9-inch (3-quart) glass baking dish with cooking spray. Cook and drain noodles as directed on package.
2. Meanwhile, in 2-quart saucepan, melt butter over medium-high heat. Cook bell pepper and onions in butter, stirring occasionally, until crisp-tender; remove from heat. Stir in milk, soup, basil and pepper.
3. Place 4 noodles in baking dish. Top with about 1 cup of the soup mixture, half of the cottage cheese, 1 1/2 cups of the chicken, 2/3 cup mozzarella cheese and 1/3 cup Cheddar cheese. Repeat layers once, starting with noodles. Place remaining 4 noodles over top. Top with remaining soup mixture, mozzarella cheese and Cheddar cheese. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over top.
4. Bake uncovered 50 to 55 minutes or until bubbly and hot in center. Let stand 15 minutes before cutting.

Notes

For extra flavor, use rotisserie chicken. Letting the lasagna stand before cutting helps it hold its shape. You can substitute ricotta for cottage cheese if preferred.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5
• Sodium: 900
• Fat: 22
• Saturated Fat: 11
• Unsaturated Fat: 8
• Trans Fat: 0
• Carbohydrates: 35
• Fiber: 2
• Protein: 28
• Cholesterol: 85

FAQs

Can I make this Creamy Chicken Lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the Creamy Chicken Lasagna up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate it, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold from the fridge. This makes it a perfect dish for easy entertaining.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese in this recipe?

For a similar texture, you can substitute cottage cheese or a smooth mascarpone. If using cottage cheese, blend it briefly for a creamier consistency. These swaps will still yield a deliciously rich and creamy chicken lasagna.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover Creamy Chicken Lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the whole dish with foil and warm it in the oven until heated through.