Chicken and Spinach Lasagna Recipe (Creamy, Comforting Family Favorite)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken and spinach lasagna is a comforting, well-balanced dish that feels both hearty and refined. It offers a delicious alternative to traditional beef lasagna by using tender chicken, creamy white sauce, and nutrient-rich spinach layered between sheets of pasta and melted cheese. What makes this recipe especially appealing is its versatility. It works just as well for a cozy family dinner as it does for entertaining guests. I tested this lasagna with both fresh and frozen spinach, and each option delivered great results with proper preparation. The flavors are mild yet satisfying, making it a crowd-pleaser for both adults and children. This lasagna is rich without being overwhelming, creamy without feeling heavy, and it reheats beautifully. If you are looking for a reliable, comforting baked dish that still feels a little elevated, this chicken and spinach lasagna is an excellent choice.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Lasagna Noodles
Lasagna noodles form the structure of the dish and hold the layers together. Cook them until just al dente so they maintain their texture during baking.

Cooked Chicken
Chicken provides lean protein and a mild flavor that pairs well with creamy sauces. Shredded or diced cooked chicken works best.

Spinach
Spinach adds color, freshness, and nutritional value. Fresh spinach should be wilted first, while frozen spinach must be thawed and well-drained.

Butter
Butter creates a rich base for the white sauce and adds depth of flavor.

Garlic
Garlic enhances the overall savory profile without overpowering the dish.

All-Purpose Flour
Flour thickens the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy consistency.

Milk
Milk forms the body of the white sauce and keeps it light yet satisfying.

Heavy Cream
A small amount of cream adds richness and silkiness to the sauce.

Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta adds creaminess and structure to the lasagna layers.

Mozzarella Cheese
Mozzarella melts beautifully, creating gooey, comforting layers.

Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan adds sharpness and balances the creamy elements.

Salt and Black Pepper
These seasonings enhance all the flavors and bring balance to the dish.

Nutmeg
A pinch of nutmeg adds warmth and complements the creamy sauce.

Directions

Begin by cooking the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the garlic briefly until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for about one minute.

Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, then season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Remove from heat.

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cooked chicken, and spinach. Mix gently until evenly combined. To assemble, spread a thin layer of sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Add a layer of noodles, followed by the chicken and spinach mixture, sauce, and a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat the layers, finishing with sauce and cheese on top.

Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C until bubbly and lightly golden. Let the lasagna rest before slicing and serving.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves six people. Preparation takes about 30 minutes, with a baking time of 40 minutes. Allow 10 minutes of resting time before serving.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This lasagna also reheats well the next day, making it ideal for leftovers.

Variations and Customizations

Chicken and spinach lasagna is easy to adapt to suit different tastes. You can substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a deeper flavor. I have also tested this recipe by adding sautéed mushrooms, which add an earthy note that pairs well with the creamy sauce.

For extra richness, a layer of béchamel can be added between each layer. If you prefer a lighter version, use low-fat milk and part-skim cheeses. Herbs such as basil or thyme can be added to the sauce for additional aroma and depth.

You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as adding a small amount of Gruyère or fontina for a more complex flavor. These variations allow you to personalize the dish while keeping its comforting character intact.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This dish contains dairy, gluten, and meat. It is a good source of protein and calcium. Gluten-free lasagna noodles can be used if needed.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Drain Spinach Thoroughly
Excess moisture can make the lasagna watery.

Rest Before Cutting
Allowing the lasagna to rest helps the layers set.

Season Each Layer
Light seasoning throughout improves overall flavor.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works very well and saves time.

Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, it can be assembled a day in advance and baked later.

Can I freeze chicken and spinach lasagna?

Yes, freeze before or after baking for up to two months.

What sauce is used in this lasagna?

A creamy white sauce pairs best with chicken and spinach.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, just thaw and drain it thoroughly.

How do I prevent watery lasagna?

Drain spinach well and avoid excess sauce.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms and zucchini work well.

What cheese melts best?

Mozzarella provides the best melt.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, the flavors are mild and creamy.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free noodles and flour.

Conclusion

Chicken and spinach lasagna is a comforting, creamy dish that brings together tender chicken, wholesome greens, and rich layers of sauce and cheese. It is reliable, adaptable, and perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. With thoughtful preparation and quality ingredients, this lasagna delivers satisfying results every time and is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

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