This Marry Me Chicken Lasagna is a lovely twist on a classic dish! With layers of creamy chicken, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s comfort food at its best.
Honestly, who wouldn’t fall in love with a recipe like this? I can’t resist a hearty slice when I serve it at dinner. You’ll leave your guests asking for the recipe!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles work best, but if you want a healthier option, consider whole wheat or gluten-free noodles. I personally love using the oven-ready kind for convenience!
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken saves time, but you can also cook your chicken breasts in the skillet or bake them beforehand. It’s a great way to use leftover chicken too!
Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a nice touch, but frozen spinach can work in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using!
Ricotta Cheese: If you’re looking to lighten it up, cottage cheese can be a good replacement. Just blend it to get a similar texture. You might enjoy the slightly different taste too!
Heavy Cream: For a lower fat option, swap in half-and-half or use a plant-based milk, but keep in mind that the creaminess will vary. Personally, I love the richness heavy cream adds.
How Do I Layer My Lasagna Perfectly?
Layering your lasagna properly ensures each bite has all the flavors you want. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a thin layer of the chicken and cheese mixture to prevent sticking.
- Lay down three noodles side by side, leaving a little space for expansion.
- Add a generous layer of the chicken and cheese mixture, spreading it evenly for consistent flavor.
- Repeat the layering twice, finishing with the cheese mix on the top for that cheesy, golden crust.
Don’t rush through this! Enjoy the process, and you’ll have a beautifully layered lasagna that is sure to impress!
Marry Me Chicken Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Lasagna:
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions and drained
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
For the Cheesy Mixture:
- 3 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 20 minutes for prep work and around 40 minutes for baking. Total time approximately 1 hour. This includes layering the ingredients, which makes the process simple and enjoyable, and the result is well worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Sauté:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant and inviting!
2. Cook Chicken and Spinach:
Next, add the cooked shredded chicken and fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook together until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Once done, take it off the heat!
3. Mix the Cheesy Filling:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, ½ cup of Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, dried basil, dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s nice and creamy.
4. Combine Chicken and Spinach:
Now, gently fold the chicken and spinach mixture into the cheesy mixture until everything is well combined. This is where the magic starts!
5. Layering Time:
In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of your chicken and cheese mixture on the bottom to prevent sticking. Then, place three lasagna noodles on top. Follow with one-third of the chicken and cheese mixture, spreading it evenly. Repeat this layering two more times, but end with the chicken and cheese mixture on top.
6. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese over the top layer for that delicious cheesy finish.
7. Bake:
Cover your dish with foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 25 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s done, let the lasagna cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor.
This creamy, cheesy Marry Me Chicken Lasagna will definitely impress anyone who tries it. Enjoy every warm, delicious bite!
Can I Use No-Cook Lasagna Noodles?
Yes, no-cook lasagna noodles work great for this recipe! Just make sure to increase the baking time slightly, as they may need a bit longer to cook through. You might also want to add a little extra sauce to ensure they get adequately moist.
Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the lasagna a day ahead, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, it may need an extra 5-10 minutes in the oven since it will be cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftover Lasagna?
Store any leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can warm individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative to heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt. Just keep in mind that the sauce might be slightly less rich, but it will still be delicious!
