If you’re craving a lasagna that feels both indulgent and fresh, you’ve got to try this Creamy White Chicken Lasagna Recipe. It’s unlike your traditional red sauce lasagna—think layers of tender noodles, a luscious homemade white Alfredo sauce, tender shredded chicken, and pockets of spinach and artichoke goodness. I absolutely love how this turns out every single time, and I know once you make it, your family will go crazy for it too. Stick around because I’m sharing all my little tricks to make sure yours is just as creamy and flavorful!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate Comfort Food: It combines creamy homemade Alfredo, melty mozzarella, and tender chicken for a rich and satisfying meal.
- Fresh Spinach & Artichokes: These veggies add a bright, earthy twist that balances the indulgence perfectly.
- Layered for Flavor: Three full layers mean every bite is packed with cheesy, saucy goodness you won’t want to miss.
- Make Ahead Friendly: Prep it ahead or freeze for later—versatility that fits any busy schedule.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients in this Creamy White Chicken Lasagna Recipe all come together to create layers of flavor and texture, from the rich Alfredo sauce to the creamy ricotta filling. When shopping, look for fresh herbs and good-quality cheeses to really make this recipe shine.
- Classic lasagna noodles: Use the traditional kind, not no-boil, so you can soak them and get that perfect tender bite.
- Shredded mozzarella: Fresh shredded for melting like a dream—avoid pre-shredded, which often has anti-caking agents.
- Unsalted butter: I sometimes swap half for olive oil to add a little depth to the sauce, but butter keeps it rich and silky.
- Garlic cloves: Freshly minced, because garlic in any form makes everything better!
- All-purpose flour: For thickening that velvety Alfredo sauce.
- Chicken broth: Keep it low sodium to control salt levels in this dish.
- Half and half: It balances creaminess without being too heavy, key for a luscious sauce.
- Seasonings: Onion powder, dried parsley, basil, oregano, thyme, pepper, chicken bouillon, and a pinch of red pepper flakes create a layered flavor profile.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated packs much more punch than pre-grated.
- Rotisserie chicken: Already cooked and shredded, hearty and convenient for this recipe.
- Eggs: Bind the ricotta filling, giving it structure but still keeping it creamy.
- Whole milk ricotta cheese: The creamy star of the filling, it gets that secret boost from sour cream.
- Full-fat sour cream: This little addition makes the ricotta extra luscious and dreamy.
- Fresh basil: Or dried if you don’t have fresh on hand, giving a fragrant herbal lift.
- Nutmeg: Just a pinch adds incredible warmth to the ricotta mixture.
- Artichoke hearts: Make sure to chop them finely and pat very dry to avoid sogginess.
- Frozen chopped spinach: Thawed and really well-drained to keep your lasagna from turning watery.
Variations
The beauty of this Creamy White Chicken Lasagna Recipe is that it’s highly adaptable. I’ve switched things up depending on what’s in my fridge or the season, and it never disappoints. Feel free to make it your own!
- Vegetarian version: Skip the chicken and add extra mushrooms or zucchini—I’ve done this, and it’s just as creamy and satisfying.
- Spicy kick: If you love heat, increase the red pepper flakes or toss in a diced jalapeño; it wakes up the dish beautifully.
- Herbs: Swap fresh basil for fresh thyme or rosemary for a different herbal aroma.
- Cheese swaps: Try adding provolone or fontina in place of mozzarella for a different melt and flavor.
How to Make Creamy White Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Soak Those Noodles Like a Pro
This step is a game-changer. Instead of boiling, submerge your classic lasagna noodles in hot tap water—just enough to cover. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. I discovered this trick when I was in a pinch without enough time, and the noodles turned out perfectly tender and easy to layer!
Step 2: Mix the Ricotta Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, eggs, sour cream, parmesan, fresh basil, salt, pepper, nutmeg, chopped artichokes, and drained spinach until combined. This filling is creamy but has texture from the veggies, making every bite rich and interesting. I always make sure to pat those veggies dry—it prevents watery lasagna layers.
Step 3: Make That Dreamy Alfredo Sauce
Start by melting butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and garlic, cooking for about 2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste. Then, slowly add half and half and chicken broth along with all your spices. Bring it gently to a boil, whisking constantly. When it thickens to a creamy consistency, remove from heat and stir in Parmesan until melted. This is where the magic happens! Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken to coat it all in that rich sauce. If your sauce seems too thick, swirl in a little milk to loosen it up. Trust me, the sauce’s consistency makes a huge difference in your lasagna’s creaminess.
Step 4: Assemble With Love
Lightly grease a deep 9×13 baking dish. Spread about 1 cup of Alfredo sauce on the bottom for a thin base layer. Lay out 4 noodles lengthwise plus part of a fifth to cover the bottom, then spread one-third of the ricotta filling over the noodles. Sprinkle with 1 cup mozzarella. Repeat twice more layering Alfredo, noodles, ricotta, and mozzarella. Finish topping with the remaining Alfredo sauce and mozzarella. Every time I assemble, I keep my layering neat because it makes serving easier and the presentation prettier.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the lasagna tightly with foil and bake it in a preheated 350°F oven for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake an additional 30 minutes until bubbly and hot throughout. For that golden, slightly crispy top, I switch the oven to broil for just 3 minutes, watching like a hawk so it doesn’t burn. Then, I always let it set for 15 minutes before slicing—this little wait lets the layers firm up and makes plating so much cleaner.
Pro Tips for Making Creamy White Chicken Lasagna Recipe
- Noodle Soak Time: Don’t rush soaking the noodles; 30 minutes lets them soften just enough to avoid breakage during assembly.
- Dry Your Veggies: Always squeeze out excess water from spinach and artichokes to keep your lasagna from turning watery.
- Alfredo Sauce Consistency: It should coat the back of a spoon and be pourable; too thick and your lasagna becomes heavy, too thin and it’s runny.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the lasagna rest at least 15 minutes after baking to set the layers for clean slices and perfect presentation.
How to Serve Creamy White Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
I like to finish my slices with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil and a little extra Parmesan right before serving—it brightens up the rich flavors wonderfully. Sometimes, a light drizzle of good olive oil adds a silky gloss on top that makes it feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This creamy lasagna pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted garlic asparagus. I also love crusty garlic bread on the side for dipping into all that delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For holidays or special dinners, I’ve made individual portions in small ramekins topped with extra cheese and broiled until bubbly for a cute, personalized touch. It’s a fun way to impress guests without extra fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After it cools, I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I’ve found that letting it rest before refrigerating helps keep the layers intact and flavors meld beautifully overnight.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully! I either freeze the entire unbaked dish tightly wrapped in foil or plate individual servings in freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to indulge, just thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual. It’s a lifesaver for busy weeks!
Reheating
I reheat individual slices in a 350°F oven covered with foil to keep the moisture intact, about 20 minutes, then uncover for a few minutes to refresh the top. Using the oven maintains that creamy texture better than a microwave.
FAQs
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Can I use no-boil noodles for this creamy white chicken lasagna recipe?
While no-boil noodles are convenient, this recipe works best with classic noodles soaked in hot water first. Soaking softens them perfectly without the risk of a watery lasagna, which is important given the creamy sauce and vegetable fillings.
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How do I prevent the lasagna from getting watery?
The key is thoroughly draining the spinach and artichoke hearts before mixing them into the ricotta filling and avoiding over-thinning the Alfredo sauce. Properly soaking noodles instead of boiling also helps maintain the right moisture balance.
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Can I prepare the creamy white chicken lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge, then bake it fresh when ready. This lets the flavors meld together even more, making it taste even better the next day.
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What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F to preserve the creamy texture and avoid drying out. Microwaving can work in a pinch, but oven reheating keeps the layers intact and sauce velvety.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy White Chicken Lasagna Recipe is truly a labor of love that’s worth every step. I remember the first time I made it for my family—seeing their eyes light up at that first creamy, cheesy bite was priceless. It’s a recipe that feels fancy but is totally doable, bringing comfort and joy in every slice. I hope you give it a try soon—you might just find your new favorite weeknight or special occasion dish!
Print
Creamy White Chicken Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Total Time: 110 minutes
- Yield: 18 servings (serving size approximately 1×3 inch slice) 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Halal
Description
This White Chicken Lasagna is a rich and creamy layered pasta dish featuring tender rotisserie chicken, a homemade Alfredo sauce infused with garlic and herbs, and a luscious ricotta filling blended with spinach and artichokes. Baked to bubbly perfection and topped with golden, melted mozzarella and Parmesan, this dish offers comforting, satisfying flavors with a delightful combination of creamy textures and aromatic spices. Ideal for family dinners or special occasions, this lasagna promises to be your new favorite chicken Alfredo recipe.
Ingredients
Lasagna Noodles
- 15 classic lasagna noodles (NOT no-boil)
Cheese
- 1 pound shredded mozzarella (4 cups)
- 2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- 3 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 cup full fat sour cream
- 2 eggs
Alfredo Sauce
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (may substitute half with olive oil)
- 8 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 3 cups half and half
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp chicken bouillon
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Filling and Add-ins
- 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 14 oz. can artichoke hearts (chopped and patted very dry)
- 16 oz. frozen chopped spinach (thawed and patted very dry)
Instructions
- Prepare the Noodles: Place the lasagna noodles in a long pan and cover them completely with hot tap water. Allow them to soak for at least 30 minutes, occasionally stirring to prevent sticking. This pre-soaks the noodles for a tender lasagna without boiling.
- Make the Ricotta Filling: In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the whole milk ricotta cheese, full-fat sour cream, eggs, chopped basil, salt, pepper, nutmeg, thawed spinach (well drained), and chopped artichoke hearts (well drained). Set aside to keep flavors melded.
- Preheat Oven: Warm the oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the assembled lasagna later.
- Prepare Alfredo Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and whisk in the flour. Cook and stir continuously for 2 minutes to form a roux. Lower the heat and gradually whisk in half and half, chicken broth, and all the specified spices and seasonings (onion powder, dried parsley, basil, oregano, salt, thyme, pepper, chicken bouillon, and red pepper flakes). Bring the sauce to a boil while whisking and then reduce to a medium simmer, stirring occasionally until it thickens to a creamy but not overly thick consistency—about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups Parmesan cheese until melted. Mix in shredded rotisserie chicken. Add more milk if needed to loosen the sauce slightly.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Lightly grease a deep 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread 1 cup of Alfredo sauce thinly on the bottom. Layer 4 lasagna noodles lengthwise to cover the sauce, adding part of a 5th noodle to fill gaps. Spread one-third of the ricotta filling evenly over the noodles, then sprinkle with 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat this layering two more times with the remaining Alfredo sauce (about 2 cups per layer), noodles, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella for a total of three layers. Finish with the remaining third of Alfredo sauce and remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the lasagna tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes in the preheated oven. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes or until the lasagna is hot, bubbly, and cooked through.
- Broil for Finish: Set the oven to broil at 550°F (288°C). Without moving the lasagna, broil the top until golden and lightly browned in spots—approximately 3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Rest and Serve: Let the lasagna stand for 15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set for cleaner slices and enhances flavor.
Notes
- This White Chicken Lasagna is loaded with creamy layers of homemade Alfredo sauce, ricotta filling with spinach and artichokes, shredded chicken, and gooey mozzarella — making it rich and flavor-packed.
- Ensure the artichoke hearts and spinach are patted very dry to prevent excess moisture that can make the lasagna watery.
- Use traditional lasagna noodles, not no-boil types, to get proper texture and layering.
- You can prepare the lasagna assembly ahead of time, store it covered in the fridge, and bake when ready.
- This recipe freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze before baking or freeze portions after baking.
- For added flavor variation, fresh herbs can be substituted or added, such as fresh oregano or thyme.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/18th of recipe)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 490mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg