Creamy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna

Indulge in a delightful culinary journey with this **Chicken Alfredo Lasagna**, a modern twist on a beloved Italian classic that promises to become a new family favorite. This dish reimagines traditional lasagna layers with the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and gooey melted cheese, creating an irresistible experience. Each forkful delivers a symphony of textures and flavors, from perfectly cooked lasagna noodles to a luscious, savory sauce that coats every ingredient. It’s comfort food elevated, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, guaranteed to impress even the most discerning palates.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna

This **creamy chicken alfredo lasagna** stands out for several compelling reasons, making it a must-try recipe for any home cook:

• **Effortless Preparation (with Make-Ahead Options):** While assembling a lasagna might seem like a project, this recipe is designed to be manageable. What’s more, it’s an excellent make-ahead meal, allowing you to prepare it in advance and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve. This flexibility makes it ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests without the last-minute rush.
• **Simple, Wholesome Ingredients:** You won’t need to hunt for exotic items. This recipe uses common, readily available ingredients found at any local grocery store. This ensures a stress-free shopping experience and focuses on fresh, flavorful components that truly shine.
• **Highly Customizable for Every Palate:** One of the best aspects of this chicken lasagna is its adaptability. Whether you have picky eaters or diverse dietary preferences, you can easily adjust ingredients to suit everyone. Add extra vegetables, swap cheeses, or modify seasonings to create a version that your entire family will adore.
• **Unforgettable Flavor Profile:** With layers of tender lasagna noodles, perfectly seasoned chicken, a rich and velvety homemade Alfredo sauce, and generous amounts of gooey, melted cheese, this dish is a winning combination that will have everyone reaching for second helpings. It’s also a clever way to incorporate extra vegetables for those who might be reluctant to eat them otherwise.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

Crafting the perfect Chicken Alfredo Lasagna starts with high-quality ingredients. Below is an overview of what you’ll need. Detailed measurements and instructions are available in the comprehensive recipe card located at the bottom of this page.

Ingredient Notes and Flavorful Variations

Here are some in-depth notes on the key ingredients and how you can adapt them to your taste and what you have on hand:

• **Chicken:** For optimal tenderness and ease of shredding, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are highly recommended. However, boneless chicken thighs can also be used, offering a slightly richer flavor. If you’re short on time, a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken from your local grocery store is an excellent shortcut.
• **Milk:** Whole milk is preferred for the Alfredo sauce as its higher fat content contributes significantly to a truly rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a slightly lighter option, 2% milk can be used, though the sauce might be a touch less decadent. Avoid skim milk for this recipe, as it won’t provide the desired creaminess.
• **Chicken Broth:** This adds depth to the chicken poaching liquid and the Alfredo sauce. Chicken stock can be used interchangeably. For a quick substitute, chicken bouillon dissolved in water works well, just be mindful of the salt content.
• **Onion:** A white or yellow onion, quartered, is perfect for infusing the chicken poaching liquid with a foundational aromatic flavor. These varieties soften and lend a mild sweetness without overpowering the dish.
• **Bay Leaf:** A single bay leaf is sufficient to impart a subtle, herbaceous note to the poaching liquid. If you only have smaller bay leaves, using two will ensure adequate flavor. Remember to remove it before shredding the chicken and making the sauce.
• **Cardamom Pods:** (Optional) This is a secret ingredient that adds a surprisingly delightful, warm, and slightly floral layer of flavor to the chicken. It’s a subtle touch that elevates the dish, but it can be omitted if unavailable or if you prefer a more traditional flavor profile.
• **Fresh Rosemary:** Look for fresh, fragrant rosemary sprigs. Its piney, aromatic notes wonderfully complement the chicken and creamy sauce, adding a gourmet touch. Dried rosemary can be used in a pinch, but use about a third of the amount, as its flavor is more concentrated.
• **Unsalted Butter:** Using unsalted butter, especially for the Alfredo sauce and sautéing mushrooms, gives you complete control over the overall saltiness of the dish. This allows for precise seasoning adjustments to perfectly match your preference.
• **Baby Spinach:** Fresh baby spinach wilts beautifully into the mushroom mixture, adding a touch of color, essential nutrients, and a mild, earthy flavor. Regular fresh spinach can also be used; just chop it roughly before adding.
• **Mushrooms:** Any fresh mushrooms will work well. Button mushrooms are a classic choice for their mild flavor and tender texture, but cremini or even sliced shiitake mushrooms can add more robust, umami notes.
• **All-Purpose Flour:** This is crucial for creating the roux that thickens the creamy Alfredo sauce, giving it its characteristic velvety consistency. Ensure it’s smoothly incorporated to avoid lumps.
• **Salt and Black Pepper:** These fundamental seasonings are vital for balancing and enhancing all the flavors in the dish. Always taste and adjust to your liking, especially after adding Parmesan cheese, which is naturally salty.
• **Oil:** A neutral oil like olive oil or vegetable oil is used for sautéing the garlic and mushrooms. Olive oil offers a pleasant subtle flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• **Garlic:** Freshly minced garlic provides the best, most vibrant flavor for the Alfredo sauce. However, jarred minced garlic or even garlic powder (use about ½ teaspoon per clove) can be used as convenient alternatives.
• **Parmesan Cheese:** Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts smoothly and offers a superior nutty, salty flavor that truly defines a classic Alfredo. While pre-shredded varieties are convenient, they often contain anti-caking agents that can affect melt and texture.
• **Lasagna Noodles:** This recipe utilizes no-boil lasagna noodles for ultimate convenience, eliminating a step and saving time. If using traditional lasagna noodles, ensure they are boiled to an al dente stage before assembly, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
• **Mozzarella Cheese:** For the best melt and stretch, shredding a block of whole-milk mozzarella yourself is highly recommended. Pre-shredded mozzarella often contains starches that can prevent it from melting as smoothly and becoming as gooey as desired.

Before You Begin: Essential Tools

Having the right tools ready makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Here are the basic kitchen essentials you’ll need for this delicious **chicken alfredo lasagna**:

• **Large Pot:** Necessary for poaching the chicken and simmering the flavorful broth.
• **Cutting Board:** For safely preparing your chicken and vegetables.
• **Large Skillet:** Essential for sautéing mushrooms and spinach, and for preparing the creamy Alfredo sauce.
• **13×9 Baking Dish:** The standard size for baking a generous lasagna, ensuring even cooking and beautiful presentation.

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Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting Your Chicken Alfredo Lasagna

Follow these detailed instructions to create a truly memorable Chicken Alfredo Lasagna. This is an overview; the full, printable recipe card with precise measurements is available below.

1. **Prepare the Chicken:** In a deep pot, combine the milk, chicken broth, bay leaves, quartered onion, fresh rosemary sprig, and optional cardamom pods. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and continue to cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through. Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, place the chicken on a cutting board and shred it using two forks. *Crucially, reserve the flavorful milk and broth mixture from the pot – this forms the base of your rich Alfredo sauce.*
2. **Sauté the Mushroom Mixture:** In a large skillet, melt three tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped mushrooms and cook, stirring frequently, until they have released their moisture and are nicely browned and tender. Stir in the baby spinach and continue to cook for just a minute or two until the spinach has completely wilted. Season the mixture with ½ teaspoon each of salt and black pepper. Remove the mushroom and spinach mixture from the skillet and set it aside.
3. **Craft the Alfredo Sauce:** Using the same skillet from the mushrooms, add ¼ cup of unsalted butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and the oil shimmers, add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes lightly golden and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in ¾ cup of all-purpose flour, creating a roux. Continue stirring constantly for a couple of minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually, pour in the reserved milk and broth mixture, adding it 1 cup at a time while continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in ⅓ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and another ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed.
4. **Combine Filling Components:** Measure out 2 ½ cups of the creamy Alfredo sauce and set it aside for the top layer of the lasagna. To the remaining sauce in the skillet, add the sautéed mushroom and spinach mixture, along with the shredded chicken. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated in the rich sauce. This will be your flavorful lasagna filling.
5. **Preheat Oven & Prepare Dish:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 13×9 inch baking dish generously with nonstick cooking oil. This step is essential to prevent the lasagna from sticking to the pan.
6. **First Layer:** Spread a thin layer of the plain Alfredo sauce (the 2 ½ cups you set aside earlier) at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This ensures the bottom layer of noodles doesn’t burn or stick. Arrange a layer of lasagna sheets over the sauce, breaking them if necessary to fit the pan.
7. **Middle Layers:** Evenly spread half of the chicken and mushroom mixture over the lasagna noodles. Sprinkle ½ cup of mozzarella cheese over the filling. Top with another layer of lasagna sheets. Repeat this process: spread the remaining half of the chicken and mushroom mixture, then sprinkle another ½ cup of mozzarella cheese, and finally, add the last layer of lasagna sheets.
8. **Final Touches & Bake:** Pour the reserved 2 ½ cups of plain Alfredo sauce over the top layer of lasagna noodles, ensuring everything is well covered. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese generously over the entire surface. Loosely cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the center of your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
9. **Golden Brown Finish:** Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
10. **Rest and Serve:** Allow the lasagna to stand for at least 15 minutes before cutting and serving. This resting period is crucial as it allows the layers to set, making for cleaner slices and preventing the lasagna from falling apart.

Variations to Make It Your Own

One of the joys of cooking is personalizing recipes. Here are some fantastic ways to customize your **chicken alfredo lasagna**:

• **Pre-Cooked Chicken Shortcut:** If time is a constraint, a shredded rotisserie chicken from your local grocery store is a fantastic shortcut. It saves a significant amount of prep time without compromising flavor.
• **Add Extra Creaminess with Ricotta:** For an even cheesier and more traditional lasagna experience, consider adding a layer of creamy ricotta cheese or cottage cheese between your existing layers. This adds moisture and a wonderful tangy note.
• **Boost Sauce Flavor:** Enhance your homemade Alfredo sauce with additional seasonings. A pinch of Italian seasoning, dried basil, or oregano can deepen the herbaceous notes, while a touch of nutmeg can add a classic, warm undertone. A dash of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat.
• **Vegetable Boost:** Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like finely diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté them with the mushrooms or spinach before adding to the chicken mixture.
• **Cheese Combinations:** Experiment with different cheese blends. A mix of provolone, fontina, or even a smoked mozzarella can add unique flavor dimensions to the classic mozzarella and Parmesan.

Let’s Make the Perfect Recipe: Amira’s Tips

Achieving a restaurant-quality **chicken alfredo lasagna** at home is easier with these expert tips:

• **Noodle Perfection:** If you opt for traditional lasagna noodles that require boiling, make sure to cook them only to an al dente stage. They will continue to cook and soften significantly in the oven, and overcooked noodles will result in a mushy lasagna.
• **Prevent Sticking:** Always generously spray your casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray or grease it with butter. This crucial step prevents the lasagna from sticking to the bottom and sides of the baking dish, ensuring easy removal and clean slices.
• **The Foundational Sauce Layer:** Always begin your lasagna assembly with a thin layer of the creamy Alfredo sauce at the bottom of the pan. This acts as a protective barrier, preventing the first layer of pasta from burning or sticking to the pan and keeping it moist.
• **Even Shredding:** Ensure your chicken is shredded into relatively uniform pieces. This allows for even distribution throughout the lasagna layers, so every bite has a good balance of chicken and sauce.
• **Freshly Grated Cheese is Key:** While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly grating your Parmesan and mozzarella makes a noticeable difference. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly, resulting in a silkier sauce and gooier, more satisfying cheese layers, free from anti-caking agents.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

This **creamy chicken alfredo lasagna** is just as delicious the next day! Here’s how to properly store and reheat any leftovers:

• **Refrigerate:** Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.
• **Freeze:** Lasagna freezes exceptionally well. For best results, allow the entire baked casserole to cool completely. You can either freeze the whole dish by wrapping the casserole dish tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil, or freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen lasagna overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• **Reheat:** The best way to reheat lasagna is in the oven. Place individual slices or the entire dish (covered with foil if frozen or chilled) in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until it’s warmed through and bubbling. For single servings, you can use a microwave, heating for 1-2 minutes at a time until hot.

Make Ahead: Prepare Your Lasagna in Advance

One of the fantastic advantages of this **chicken alfredo lasagna recipe** is its make-ahead potential. You can fully assemble the lasagna the day before you plan to bake it. Simply cover the unbaked dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. The next day, when you’re ready to cook, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to account for the lasagna being cold when it goes into the oven. This strategy is a game-changer for meal planning and stress-free entertaining.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With Chicken Alfredo Lasagna

To complete your meal, this rich and savory **chicken alfredo lasagna** pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

• **Fresh Side Salad:** A crisp, light green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the lasagna.
• **Garlic Bread:** A classic Italian accompaniment, a warm slice of Air Fryer Garlic Bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the creamy sauce.
• **Roasted Vegetables:** Simple roasted asparagus or broccoli can add a healthy and flavorful element to your meal.
• **Light Dessert:** Finish your meal with a sweet and tangy treat like this Lemon Poke Cake, offering a delightful balance to the hearty main course.

Your Questions Answered: Chicken Alfredo Lasagna FAQs

Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you loved this **chicken alfredo lasagna**, here are more creamy pasta and chicken dishes to satisfy your cravings:

• If your family adores Alfredo but you’re out of heavy cream, this Alfredo Sauce Without Cream recipe is a brilliant solution.
• This Copycat Panera Chicken Tortellini Alfredo offers a delicious and easy dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes!
• For another cheesy and comforting weeknight meal, this Alfredo Tortellini Bake is packed with flavor and sure to be a family hit.

Imagine this hearty casserole made with leftover cooked turkey—it would be absolutely fantastic! I’d love for you to leave a comment below and tell me what your favorite lasagna recipe is. If you truly enjoyed this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating! Your feedback is greatly appreciated.

Chicken Alfredo Lasagna

This lasagna is a guaranteed hit with everyone. Cozy, cheesy tender chicken with creamy Alfredo sauce all layered with lasagna. What’s there not to like?

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Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian / American

Diet: Halal

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Servings: 10 Servings

Calories: 447 kcal

Author: Amira

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 3 Chicken Breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 3 cups milk
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 small onion (quartered)
• 1 bay leaf
• 2-3 cardamom pods (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 rosemary spring (optional for extra flavor)

For the mushroom mixture:

• 3 Tablespoons butter
• 1 cup baby spinach (roughly chopped)
• 8 ounces chopped mushrooms
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 2 Tablespoons of oil
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• ¾ cup all purpose flour
• ⅓ cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt (to your liking)

For the Lasagna Assembly:

• 10-12 Lasagna sheets (no-boil sheets, approx. 6.5 x 3.5 inches)
• 2 ½ cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)

Instructions

1. In a deep pot, pour milk, broth, bay leaves, onions, rosemary, and cardamom pods. Bring to a gentle simmer on medium-low heat.
2. Add chicken and continue cooking for 15-20 minutes until done.
3. Remove chicken from pot and set aside to cool.
4. When chicken cools down, place it on a cutting board and shred.
5. Reserve the milk broth mixture to make the sauce.

Make the mushroom mixture:

6. In a large skillet, melt butter and add mushrooms, stirring until mushrooms cook through and soften.
7. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted. Remove mixture and set aside.

Make the sauce:

8. In the same skillet, add butter and oil on medium heat.
9. When butter melts, add garlic and sauté until lightly golden.
10. Add flour and continue stirring for a couple of minutes to create a roux.
11. Gradually add the reserved milk broth mixture, 1 cup at a time, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens.
12. Remove from heat and stir in parmesan cheese and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
13. Set aside 2 ½ cups of the plain sauce. Then, add the mushroom mixture to the remaining sauce in the skillet.
14. Mix in the shredded chicken with the mushroom-sauce mixture.

Assemble the lasagna:

15. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
16. Spray a 13×9 baking dish with cooking oil.
17. Spread some of the plain Alfredo sauce (not the one with chicken) at the bottom of the casserole dish. Cover with a layer of lasagna sheets.
18. Top with half of the mushroom chicken mixture, then ½ cup of mozzarella cheese. Cover with another layer of lasagna sheets.
19. Pour the remaining half of the mushroom chicken mixture, then another ½ cup of mozzarella cheese. Cover with a final layer of lasagna sheets.
20. Pour the preserved 2 ½ cups of plain Alfredo sauce over the top layer, then sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
21. Cover with foil loosely and bake in the center of your oven for 25-30 minutes.
22. Remove foil and continue to bake for another 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
23. Let stand for 15 minutes before cutting and serving.

Notes

• You can use any lasagna noodles you like; fresh and pre-boiled noodles also work well. Adjust cooking time for boiled noodles (cook al dente).
• You might need to break lasagna sheets to cover the pan completely and ensure a snug fit.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 447 kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 91mg | Sodium: 733mg | Potassium: 592mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 799IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 305mg | Iron: 2mg