Shredded Chicken Spinach Lasagna
Highlighted under: Traditional Comfort Food Ideas
I absolutely adore this Shredded Chicken Spinach Lasagna! It combines wholesome ingredients, vibrant flavors, and rich textures that create a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The tender lasagna sheets layered with creamy ricotta, shredded chicken, and fresh spinach make every bite a delight. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying those cheesy cravings. I promise, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen like it has in mine!
Creating this Shredded Chicken Spinach Lasagna was an adventure of flavors in my kitchen. I had left over chicken from a previous meal and thought, why not repurpose it in a comforting lasagna? The combination of creamy ricotta and fresh spinach balances out the rich chicken perfectly. It's such a rewarding way to use ingredients creatively!
What I love the most is how simple this dish is to assemble. Layering the ingredients like a puzzle not only makes it visually appealing but also ensures each bite is packed with flavor. Plus, baking it until the cheese is bubbly is the highlight—there's nothing quite like serving it straight from the oven!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Savory chicken and spinach blend beautifully with rich, creamy cheese
- Layers of flavor that create a satisfying meal for any occasion
- Easily adaptable, you can customize with your favorite vegetables or sauces
Cooking the Perfect Noodles
When preparing lasagna, the noodles are the foundation of your dish. It’s essential to cook your lasagna noodles just until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes, depending on the brand. Overcooking them can result in a mushy lasagna. After draining, immediately rinse the noodles under cold water to stop the cooking process and ensure they won’t stick together as you layer them.
If you prefer a no-boil version, make sure to use enough marinara sauce to provide moisture during baking. Add about 1/4 cup of extra sauce to the layers to allow the noodles to hydrate properly and create a perfectly textured lasagna without the need for boiling.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Using high-quality ingredients can elevate your lasagna. Opt for fresh spinach instead of frozen for better texture and flavor. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Just pull the meat from the bones and shred it for the filling. This can save you significant prep time and adds a depth of flavor that homemade chicken sometimes lacks.
When selecting cheese, consider a mix of fresh mozzarella and low-moisture mozzarella for a perfect balance of creaminess and stretch. The ricotta cheese is the star of the filling, so don’t skimp on this. A bit of grated Parmesan adds an extra layer of flavor and a delightful crunch when baked.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Lasagna
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have all your ingredients measured and ready for a smoother cooking experience!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to cook the lasagna evenly.
Cook the Noodles
Boil the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, spinach, ricotta, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Layer the Lasagna
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Lay down three noodles, then half of the chicken mixture, followed by a layer of mozzarella. Repeat this process, finishing with noodles and remaining sauce on top. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese.
Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve
Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Remember to serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the filling.
Make-Ahead Tips
This Shredded Chicken Spinach Lasagna is ideal for meal prep. You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover the dish tightly with foil to prevent it from drying out. When you're ready to bake, increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes to ensure it heats through evenly.
If you make multiple lasagnas or want to enjoy leftovers, consider freezing portions. Assemble the lasagna without baking it, then wrap it well in foil or plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, bake it from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 60-75 minutes, removing the foil for the last 15-20 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
To complement the rich flavors of the lasagna, serve it with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing crunch and balances the meal’s heaviness. Garlic bread is another fantastic option to soak up the extra marinara sauce on your plate, making for an even more satisfying experience.
For a twist on flavors, you can experiment with different sauces. Try a creamy Alfredo in place of marinara for a decadent version, or swap in pesto for a vibrant, herby kick. Customize this dish with seasonal vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for variety during different times of the year.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Yes, just follow the package instructions for layering and cooking time, as they require less liquid.
→ Is this recipe freezable?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled lasagna before baking. Just cover well and bake straight from the freezer, increasing the baking time.
→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
Mashed cottage cheese or a vegan ricotta made from blended tofu can be good swaps.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.
Shredded Chicken Spinach Lasagna
I absolutely adore this Shredded Chicken Spinach Lasagna! It combines wholesome ingredients, vibrant flavors, and rich textures that create a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The tender lasagna sheets layered with creamy ricotta, shredded chicken, and fresh spinach make every bite a delight. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying those cheesy cravings. I promise, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen like it has in mine!
Created by: Dorothy Finch
Recipe Type: Traditional Comfort Food Ideas
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Lasagna
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to cook the lasagna evenly.
Boil the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, spinach, ricotta, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Lay down three noodles, then half of the chicken mixture, followed by a layer of mozzarella. Repeat this process, finishing with noodles and remaining sauce on top. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the filling.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 710mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 39g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 35g