If you’re craving pure comfort in every bite, White Cheese Chicken Lasagna is about to win your heart and your appetite. Picture layers of tender noodles, creamy ricotta, juicy chicken, a silky white cheese sauce, and bubbling mozzarella melding together into a decadent dish you’ll want to share at every gathering (or keep all to yourself!). This beloved classic is surprisingly easy to make, yet classy and irresistible enough for any celebration. Try it once, and I guarantee White Cheese Chicken Lasagna will become your new signature recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of White Cheese Chicken Lasagna comes from how these simple ingredients blend seamlessly to create something extraordinary. From the golden cheese crust to the rich, velvety sauce, each component plays a vital role in flavor, texture, and color. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Lasagna noodles (9): Go for classic, hearty noodles—they hold the layers together beautifully.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds a luxe sweetness and is the perfect base for your white sauce.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Lends a gentle, savory aroma that makes everything taste homemade.
- Onion (½ cup, finely chopped): Sweetens and deepens the flavor of your sauce.
- All-purpose flour (¼ cup): Thickens your sauce just right, so it hugs every noodle.
- Chicken broth (2 cups): Infuses the sauce with extra richness and umami.
- Whole milk (1 cup): Makes the sauce silky and prevents it from being too heavy.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Brings luxurious creaminess—don’t skip this for the dreamiest texture.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A sprinkle of dried herbs that ties everything together with classic Italian flair.
- Salt (½ teaspoon) & Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Balances and heightens every flavor in the dish.
- Ricotta cheese (1½ cups): Creamy and slightly tangy, it gives the lasagna those signature layers.
- Large egg (1): Binds the ricotta mixture for perfect structure during baking.
- Cooked chicken breast, shredded (3 cups): Juicy pieces add heartiness and a delicious bite.
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded (2 cups): For that stretchy, gooey cheese pull everyone loves.
- Parmesan cheese, grated (1 cup): Adds savory depth and helps the top bake up golden.
- Fresh spinach (1 cup, optional): A great way to sneak some greens in, plus lovely color.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons): Brightens the finished lasagna and adds a fresh pop.
How to Make White Cheese Chicken Lasagna
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Noodles
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish so your lasagna won’t stick. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions until just al dente—they’ll finish cooking in the oven. Drain and set them aside on a lined tray to prevent sticking. This first step is all about setting yourself up for lasagna success.
Step 2: Make the Creamy White Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, letting them cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Next, whisk in the flour and cook for a minute, stirring constantly to cook out any raw taste. Slowly whisk in chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream, smoothing out any lumps. Simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring gently, until the sauce slightly thickens. Stir in your Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and half a cup of Parmesan cheese, then remove from the heat—the aroma will already have everyone peeking into the kitchen!
Step 3: Make the Ricotta Filling
In a small bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese and the egg until completely blended. This simple combination adds a luscious creamy layer to each bite and also helps the lasagna cut neatly when served.
Step 4: Assemble Your White Cheese Chicken Lasagna
Spread about half a cup of your gorgeous white sauce in the bottom of your prepared dish to prevent sticking. Layer with 3 noodles, spreading half the ricotta mixture over them. Top with a third of the shredded chicken, half the spinach (if using), half a cup of mozzarella, and half a cup of Parmesan. Then, pour over a generous layer of sauce. Repeat for the second set of layers. Finish with the last 3 noodles, the rest of your sauce, the remaining mozzarella, and the last of your Parmesan for that irresistible bubbly cheese topping.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Cover your lasagna with foil and bake for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to mingle and melt together. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the top is gloriously golden and bubbly. Don’t skip the resting time—allow it to sit for 10 minutes before serving so everything sets up and slices perfectly.
How to Serve White Cheese Chicken Lasagna
Garnishes
You can’t go wrong with a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley on top. Not only does it make the White Cheese Chicken Lasagna look instantly more inviting, but it also adds a bright note that balances the rich, creamy layers. If you want even more flavor, try a dusting of extra Parmesan or some cracked black pepper for a little kick.
Side Dishes
The beauty of White Cheese Chicken Lasagna is that it pairs effortlessly with simple sides. A crisp green salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette, or classic garlic bread, will cut through the richness. Roasted seasonal vegetables are also a wonderful option—their earthiness complements the creamy indulgence of the lasagna.
Creative Ways to Present
Make it a showstopper at your next dinner party by baking individual ramekins of White Cheese Chicken Lasagna. For casual gatherings, serve it family-style in the center of the table and let everyone dig in. If you’re meal-prepping, portion the lasagna into sturdy lunch containers—it reheats beautifully and makes weekday lunches something to look forward to!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your meal, let the lasagna cool completely before covering tightly with foil or transferring portions to airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors deepen as it rests, making the leftovers arguably even more delicious.
Freezing
White Cheese Chicken Lasagna is a fantastic freezer meal. Assemble the unbaked lasagna, wrap securely with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, bake straight from frozen at 350°F—just allow about one hour until it’s fully heated and bubbly.
Reheating
Whether reheating a slice or the whole pan, cover loosely with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until hot throughout (about 25 to 30 minutes for several servings). Individual pieces can also be microwaved in short bursts, covered, for quick weeknight meals. A splash of milk or cream added before reheating can help revive the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breast?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver for White Cheese Chicken Lasagna, and its seasoned meat adds another layer of flavor. Simply shred and use as directed.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta on hand, cottage cheese makes a great substitute. For an even creamier finish, mascarpone cheese works beautifully as well.
How do I make this lasagna gluten-free?
You can substitute gluten-free lasagna noodles and use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the sauce. The rest of the ingredients naturally fit most gluten-free diets.
Can I add vegetables to the lasagna?
Yes! Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or even some caramelized bell peppers to the layers. Vegetables like spinach blend seamlessly into the creamy filling and add extra nutrition and color.
Can I prepare White Cheese Chicken Lasagna ahead of time?
It’s ideal for making ahead. Simply assemble the entire dish, cover well, and refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed when you’re ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this White Cheese Chicken Lasagna a try in your own kitchen—it’s comfort food on another level, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to impress anyone lucky enough to grab a slice. Share it with loved ones or savor every creamy, cheesy forkful yourself; either way, prepare for rave reviews and happy, satisfied smiles!
