October 13, 2024

Creamy White Chicken and Spinach Lasagna

Healthy Fact of the Day

This White Chicken and Spinach Lasagna offers a balance of protein from chicken and calcium from cheese. Spinach adds vitamins A and K, iron, and fiber. To make it healthier, use whole wheat lasagna noodles for more fiber. Opt for low-fat cheeses and milk to reduce saturated fat content. Increase the vegetable content by adding layers of zucchini or mushrooms. You can also use less cheese and add more herbs for flavor. While creamy and indulgent, this dish can be part of a balanced diet when served with a large side salad and consumed in moderation. Remember, portion control is key to enjoying this comfort food as part of a healthy lifestyle.

Ingredients

12 lasagna noodles
4 cups cooked, shredded chicken
16 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained
15 oz ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups milk
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tsp nutmeg
Salt and white pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
Add spinach and cook until heated through. Set aside.
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until sauce thickens.
Add basil, oregano, nutmeg, salt, and white pepper. Remove from heat.
In a bowl, mix ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, and 1/2 cup Parmesan.
In a 9×13 baking dish, layer: sauce, noodles, chicken, spinach, and cheese mixture.
Repeat layers, ending with sauce and remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake 25 more minutes until bubbly.
Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

Cut into this Creamy White Chicken and Spinach Lasagna and watch as layers of tender noodles, succulent chicken, and vibrant spinach reveal themselves, all embraced by a velvety white sauce. Each forkful is a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and herbal notes, a comforting symphony that warms both body and soul. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or impressing dinner guests, this dish promises to satisfy and delight. So preheat that oven, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to create a casserole that transforms your kitchen into a haven of Italian-inspired comfort!