Get ready to transform your dinner routine with a mouthwatering twist on the classic lasagna that will have your family begging for seconds! This Chicken and Spinach Lasagna isn't just another pasta dish - it's a flavor-packed culinary adventure that combines the comfort of traditional Italian cooking with a nutritious, protein-rich spin. Imagine layers of tender lasagna noodles, succulent shredded chicken, vibrant spinach, and three types of melted cheese creating a symphony of tastes that will make your taste buds dance with joy!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the oven is hot enough to cook the lasagna evenly.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the noodles are cooking, prepare the filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, fresh spinach, ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Once the noodles are cooked, drain them and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking.
- Begin layering the lasagna. Place three lasagna noodles over the marinara sauce. Spread half of the chicken and spinach filling over the noodles, followed by a layer of marinara sauce (about 1 cup) and a third of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layering process: add three more lasagna noodles, the remaining chicken and spinach filling, another cup of marinara sauce, and another third of the mozzarella cheese.
- For the final layer, place the last three lasagna noodles on top. Spread the remaining marinara sauce over the noodles, and then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and the grated parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, making sure it doesn't touch the cheese. This will help to keep the moisture in while the lasagna cooks.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once cooked, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes before slicing. This will help the layers to set and make serving easier.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional grated parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your delicious Chicken and Spinach Lasagna!
Tips
- For the most tender lasagna, make sure to cook your noodles just until al dente - they'll continue cooking in the oven.
- Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor to your dish.
- If you want to make this recipe ahead of time, you can assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
- For a crispy top, broil the lasagna for 2-3 minutes after baking to get a golden, slightly crisp cheese layer.
- Let the lasagna rest for at least 10 minutes after baking to help it set and make cutting and serving easier.
- For added nutrition, you can mix in additional vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers into the chicken and spinach filling.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add some red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or mix some into the chicken filling.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 110mg
