Flavorful Pesto Chicken Lasagna

Welcome to a culinary adventure that reimagines a beloved Italian classic! This Pesto Chicken Lasagna takes the comforting layers of traditional lasagna and infuses them with the vibrant, aromatic flavors of fresh pesto and succulent chicken. Imagine tender lasagna noodles embracing a rich, creamy béchamel sauce, generously swirled with fragrant basil pesto, all layered with a hearty mix of seasoned shredded chicken and a trio of luscious cheeses. It’s a dish that promises to tantalize your taste buds and earn a permanent spot in your family’s recipe rotation. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this lasagna offers a delightful twist that’s both familiar and exciting, delivering an unparalleled depth of flavor in every satisfying bite.

Why Pesto Chicken Lasagna is a Must-Try

This isn’t just another lasagna recipe; it’s an experience waiting to happen. Here’s why our Pesto Chicken Lasagna will quickly become a cherished family favorite:

• Unforgettable Flavor Profile: The star of this dish is undoubtedly the creamy pesto sauce. Unlike traditional tomato-based lasagnas, the vibrant basil pesto infuses every layer with a fresh, herbaceous, and subtly nutty flavor that perfectly complements the rich béchamel and savory chicken. It’s a delightful burst of Mediterranean essence that makes this lasagna truly unique.
• Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a large family dinner, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply looking for a comforting meal to enjoy throughout the week, this lasagna scales beautifully. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd and is a fantastic option for holiday feasts or special celebrations.
• Effortless Meal Prep: One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is how well it holds up, and even improves, with time. Leftovers are incredibly delicious the next day, making it an ideal choice for meal prepping lunches or dinners for the busy week ahead. The flavors meld and deepen overnight, creating an even more satisfying experience.
• Versatile and Economical: This recipe is incredibly adaptable, making it a wonderful way to utilize ingredients you might already have on hand. It’s particularly excellent for repurposing leftover rotisserie chicken, transforming it into a brand new, gourmet-quality meal. This not only saves you time but also helps reduce food waste, turning simple leftovers into something extraordinary.

Beyond its incredible taste, this Pesto Chicken Lasagna offers convenience and flexibility, making it a standout dish that caters to both your palate and your busy lifestyle.

Essential Ingredients for Pesto Chicken Lasagna

Crafting the perfect Pesto Chicken Lasagna starts with selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients. This overview provides a glimpse into the components that will create a symphony of flavors in your dish. For precise measurements and step-by-step instructions, please refer to the detailed recipe card at the bottom of this page.

Ingredient Notes and Tips

Understanding the role of each ingredient can significantly enhance your cooking experience and the final outcome of your lasagna:

• No-Boil Lasagna Noodles: These convenient “oven-ready” noodles are a game-changer, eliminating the need for pre-boiling and simplifying the preparation process. They absorb moisture directly from the sauces as the lasagna bakes, resulting in perfectly tender layers. If you prefer, or if no-boil noodles are unavailable, you can use traditional lasagna noodles, but they will need to be boiled al dente and drained thoroughly before assembly.
• Mozzarella Cheese: A cornerstone of any great lasagna, mozzarella provides that iconic gooey, stretchy texture. While pre-shredded mozzarella is convenient, grating a block of whole-milk mozzarella yourself often yields superior melting results and a creamier consistency. The anti-caking agents in pre-shredded cheese can sometimes hinder a smooth melt.

For the Creamy Béchamel Sauce:

• Unsalted Butter: Forms the base of our roux for the béchamel. Using unsalted butter gives you greater control over the overall saltiness of the sauce. If you only have salted butter, simply reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe.
• Oil: A touch of neutral oil, such as vegetable or canola, complements the butter in the roux, contributing to a smoother sauce and preventing the butter from browning too quickly.
• All-Purpose Flour: This is the thickening agent for our béchamel. It combines with the butter and oil to create a roux, which then thickens the milk and broth into a luxurious, creamy sauce.
• Milk: Whole milk is highly recommended for the richest, most velvety béchamel sauce. Its higher fat content contributes to a superior texture and mouthfeel. While 2% or 1% milk can be used, avoid skim milk as it may result in a thinner, less satisfying sauce.
• Chicken Broth: Adds a savory depth of flavor to the béchamel, enhancing the overall profile of the lasagna. For a vegetarian option, or if you prefer, vegetable broth can be substituted.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the béchamel. Remember to taste and adjust, keeping in mind the inherent saltiness of the cheeses you’ll be using in other layers.
• Pesto Sauce: The star flavor of this dish! Traditionally made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, pesto introduces a vibrant, fresh, and herbaceous dimension. You can use your favorite store-bought pesto or prepare a fresh batch at home for an even more intense flavor.
• Shredded Cooked Chicken: This adds a substantial protein element to the lasagna. Leftover cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, is perfect for a quick and easy preparation. Alternatively, you can cook and shred fresh chicken breasts or thighs.

For the Rich Cheese Layer:

• Ricotta Cheese: Provides a wonderfully creamy and slightly tangy contrast to the other rich flavors. It’s a classic lasagna component that adds moisture and a delicate texture. If ricotta isn’t to your liking, cottage cheese can be used as a substitute for a similar effect, though the texture will be slightly different.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese offers a sharp, salty, and umami-rich flavor that is indispensable in Italian cooking. It melts beautifully and integrates seamlessly into the ricotta mixture. Avoid pre-grated canned Parmesan, as its texture and flavor often fall short.
• Egg: Acts as a binding agent for the ricotta mixture, helping to hold the cheese layer together as it bakes and giving it a pleasant, firm texture that doesn’t ooze out when sliced.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Seasoning is crucial for bringing out the best in the cheese mixture. Adjust to your personal preference, ensuring the cheese layer is as flavorful as the sauces.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pesto Chicken Lasagna

Creating this Pesto Chicken Lasagna is a rewarding culinary journey. This section provides an overview of the process. For detailed, precise instructions and measurements, please consult the printable recipe card below.

Preparing the Flavorful Béchamel Layer:

• Begin by melting butter and oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat, ensuring they are fully combined.
• Gradually whisk in the all-purpose flour, cooking constantly for a few minutes until it forms a lightly golden roux. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce and eliminating any raw flour taste.
• Slowly pour in the milk and chicken broth while continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Season the mixture generously with salt and black pepper.
• Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens to a creamy, luscious consistency.
• Once thickened, reserve about 2 ½ cups of this classic béchamel sauce. To the remaining béchamel, stir in the vibrant pesto sauce, creating your signature pesto béchamel.
• Finally, fold in the shredded cooked chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated in the rich pesto béchamel.

Crafting the Irresistible Cheese Layer:

• In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, a large egg, salt, and black pepper.
• Whisk these ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined and smooth. This creates a rich, tangy, and binding cheese mixture for your lasagna layers.

Assembling Your Pesto Lasagna Masterpiece:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking oil spray to prevent sticking.
• Spread approximately ½ cup of the chicken-pesto béchamel sauce evenly across the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. This creates a moist base and helps prevent the first layer of noodles from sticking.
• Arrange three lasagna sheets over the sauce. If using no-boil noodles, they can overlap slightly. You might need to break a fourth noodle into smaller pieces to fill any gaps and ensure the entire bottom is covered. Don’t worry about broken pieces; they will meld seamlessly once baked.
• Evenly spread half of the cheese mixture (about 1 cup) over the noodles. Follow this with half of the pesto chicken béchamel sauce (approximately 2 cups).
• Generously sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
• Repeat the layering process: another layer of lasagna noodles, followed by the remaining cheese mixture, then the remaining pesto chicken béchamel sauce, and finally, another cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
• For the grand finale, place the last layer of lasagna noodles on top. Spread the reserved plain béchamel sauce over these noodles, ensuring they are completely covered. Finish by sprinkling the remaining cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top for a beautiful golden crust.
• Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil (a layer of parchment paper underneath the foil can prevent cheese from sticking) and bake for 50 minutes.
• After 50 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and gloriously golden brown. For an extra crisp, deeply browned top, you can briefly turn on the broiler, but watch it closely to prevent burning.
• Critically, allow the lasagna to rest for at least 20 minutes after baking before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the noodles to absorb any remaining liquid and the layers to set, ensuring clean, beautiful slices.

Expert Tips for a Flawless Pesto Chicken Lasagna

Achieving a restaurant-quality Pesto Chicken Lasagna is simple with these expert tips:

• Mastering the Béchamel: When preparing the béchamel sauce, constant attention is key. Stir it consistently to prevent lumps from forming and ensure a smooth, creamy texture. A good whisk is your best friend here!
• Don’t Waste Broken Noodles: If you find broken lasagna noodles in your box, don’t discard them! You can easily piece them together in the layers. Once baked, no one will be able to tell the difference, and it helps ensure every inch of your lasagna is perfectly covered.
• Hydrate Your Noodles: Ensure that every layer of lasagna noodles is generously covered with sauce. This provides the necessary moisture for no-boil noodles to soften perfectly and contributes to the overall tender, cohesive structure of the lasagna.
• Prevent Sticking with Parchment: For a clean lift-off and to prevent cheese from sticking to the foil, cover your casserole dish with a piece of parchment paper first, and then securely wrap it with aluminum foil. This simple trick makes uncovering a breeze.
• The Importance of Resting: Allowing your Pesto Chicken Lasagna to rest for at least 20 minutes after baking is perhaps the most crucial tip. This resting period is essential for the noodles to fully absorb any excess liquid, allowing the sauces and cheese layers to set properly. The result? Neatly sliced portions that hold their shape beautifully, rather than a messy, soupy heap.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

This Pesto Chicken Lasagna is incredibly accommodating, perfect for both immediate enjoyment and future planning:

• Refrigeration: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container or by covering the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap. It will remain fresh and delicious in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing for Later: To freeze, wrap the unbaked lasagna tightly with plastic wrap, followed by a layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight.
• Reheating Instructions: To reheat, cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed through. Individual portions can also be conveniently reheated in the microwave.

Make Ahead for Convenience

Prepare this delectable Pesto Chicken Lasagna a day in advance! Simply assemble the entire dish, cover it securely, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. If baking directly from the refrigerator, add an additional 10-15 minutes to the total cooking time to ensure it heats through completely.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With Pesto Chicken Lasagna

While this Pesto Chicken Lasagna is a hearty and complete meal on its own, pairing it with a simple side can elevate your dining experience:

• A light and fresh side salad offers a wonderful contrast to the richness of the lasagna. Consider serving it alongside a crisp Arugula Salad with a tangy vinaigrette, or a classic Caesar salad.
• Garlic bread is always a perfect companion to any pasta dish, especially lasagna. The crunchy, buttery texture and garlicky aroma of Air Fryer Garlic Bread or a traditional oven-baked version are ideal for soaking up any extra sauce.
• For a balanced meal, a simple vegetable side is excellent. Roasted or steamed vegetables like Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans provide a fresh, slightly bitter counterpoint to the creamy, cheesy lasagna.

Delicious Variations to Customize Your Lasagna

One of the beauties of lasagna is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with these variations to tailor your Pesto Chicken Lasagna to your taste or dietary needs:

• Add More Veggies: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by incorporating sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, or thinly sliced zucchini between the layers. These vegetables add texture, earthiness, and a lovely freshness.
• Noodle Alternatives: If no-boil noodles aren’t available, standard lasagna noodles work perfectly. Just remember to boil them to an al dente stage and drain them well before assembling your lasagna.
• Herbaceous Boost: For an extra layer of aromatic flavor, sprinkle some fresh basil leaves, chopped parsley, or dried oregano into your ricotta cheese mixture. These herbs will infuse the dish with a delightful fragrance.
• Vegetarian Option: Easily transform this into a vegetarian masterpiece by omitting the chicken entirely. You can also substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth in the béchamel sauce. Consider adding extra vegetables or a plant-based protein alternative if desired.
• Alternative Proteins: If chicken isn’t your preferred protein, ground beef, ground turkey, or even Italian sausage (cooked and crumbled) can be used instead. Each will lend a distinct flavor profile to the dish.
• Explore Different Pestos: While basil pesto is classic, don’t shy away from other pesto varieties! Sun-dried tomato pesto, kale pesto, or even a walnut pesto could offer an exciting new dimension to your lasagna.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pesto Chicken Lasagna

Related Recipes

If you love the flavors and comfort of this Pesto Chicken Lasagna, be sure to explore these other delicious recipes:

• Do you adore the combination of pesto and creamy ricotta cheese? Then you must try this Lemon Ricotta Cheese Pasta for an incredibly easy and satisfying meal or side dish.
• For another comforting and quick casserole, our Alfredo Tortellini Bake is a creamy, cheesy delight. It’s a perfect weeknight solution that feels like a gourmet meal.

More Lasagna Inspirations

Can’t get enough of layered pasta dishes? Discover more exciting lasagna recipes from our collection:

• Our Chicken Alfredo Lasagna offers another creamy, cheesy classic, featuring flavorful chicken, a rich white sauce, and tender noodles that will please everyone at your table.
• If you crave the flavors of lasagna without the extensive layering, this Easy Lasagna Casserole is your go-to. It comes together in minutes but delivers all the comforting taste you expect.
• For those who prefer a lasagna without ricotta cheese, our classic Lasagna without Ricotta is perfect. It features a rich, savory meat sauce that makes for a hearty and satisfying meal.

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Essential Cooking Equipment

Having the right tools can make all the difference in your cooking process. Here is some recommended equipment for preparing your Pesto Chicken Lasagna:

• Large Saucepan: Ideal for preparing your béchamel sauce, ensuring even heating and plenty of room for whisking.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining your cheese mixture and other ingredients.
• 9×13 Casserole Dish or Lasagna Pan: The perfect size for assembling and baking your family-sized lasagna.

Pesto Chicken Lasagna

A delicious family meal featuring tender lasagna noodles, rich cheese, and a creamy béchamel sauce loaded with pesto and cooked chicken. This comforting casserole is sure to become a staple in your home.

4.78 from 9 votes

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Course:
Main Course

Cuisine:
Italian / American

Diet:
Halal

Prep Time:
30 minutes

Cook Time:
1 hour

Servings:
12 Servings

Author:
Amira

Ingredients

• 12 No-boil lasagna noodles
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Béchamel Sauce:

• 3 Tablespoon unsalted butter
• 3 Tablespoons oil
• 8 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ -¾ teaspoon salt or to taste
• 1 ¾ cup pesto sauce
• 3 cups cooked chicken shredded

Cheese Layer:

• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• ¼ -½ teaspoon salt or to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Make the Béchamel Layer:

1. In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter and oil.
2. Add flour and cook until lightly yellow, stirring constantly.
3. Whisk in milk and broth, then season the mixture with salt and pepper.
4. Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
5. Set aside 2 ½ cups of the plain béchamel sauce. Add the pesto sauce to the remaining béchamel.
6. Mix in the shredded chicken until well combined.

Make the Cheese Layer:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Assemble Pesto Lasagna:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 13×9 inch baking dish with cooking oil spray.
2. Spread about ½ cup of the chicken-pesto béchamel sauce at the bottom of the casserole dish.
3. Place three lasagna sheets on top of the sauce. Break approximately ¾ of a fourth noodle to cover any remaining gaps on the bottom layer. Do not discard broken pieces, as they will cook and mend together.
4. Spread half of the cheese mixture (about 1 cup) evenly over the noodles. Top with half of the pesto chicken béchamel sauce (about 2 cups).
5. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Repeat the layers: add another layer of lasagna noodles, followed by the remaining cheese mixture, then the remaining pesto chicken béchamel sauce, and another 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
7. For the final layer, add the last lasagna noodles, then top with the plain béchamel sauce that was set aside. Sprinkle the remaining cup of mozzarella cheese over everything.
8. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil (you can place parchment paper underneath to prevent sticking) and bake for 50 minutes.
9. Remove the cover and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. You can also use the broiler for a few minutes for a darker, crispier top, but watch it carefully to prevent burning.
10. Let the lasagna rest for at least 20 minutes before cutting and serving. This allows the layers to set and the sauces to thicken, ensuring clean slices.

Notes

• Resting the casserole after baking is crucial as it allows the noodles to absorb any extra liquids and for the layers to set, resulting in perfectly firm slices.
• For best results and to prevent sticking, cover your casserole dish with a piece of parchment paper before adding aluminum foil.
• Please check our nutrition disclaimer policy for information regarding nutritional values.

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