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If you are craving a comforting, cheesy, and wholesome meal that feels like a warm embrace on a plate, this Chicken Lasagna with Spinach and Provolone Recipe is an absolute must-try. It marries tender shredded chicken and vibrant spinach with creamy ricotta and layers of gooey provolone cheese, all nestled between perfectly cooked lasagna noodles. The luscious white sauce, infused with garlic and parmesan, ties everything together in a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and elegant. Whether for a family dinner or a special gathering, this dish brings both heartiness and a touch of freshness that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing complicated here—just a collection of simple, everyday ingredients that come together beautifully to create a rich, creamy, and flavorful Chicken Lasagna with Spinach and Provolone Recipe. Each item plays a vital role from building the velvety sauce to giving the lasagna its luscious texture and vibrant color.
- 4 tablespoons butter: The base for our smooth and creamy sauce that adds richness and depth.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the sauce to the perfect consistency.
- 2 cups milk: Creates a silky, luscious texture that makes the sauce irresistible.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds savory notes that enhance the chicken flavors throughout the dish.
- 2 teaspoons salt: Balances all the flavors perfectly.
- ¼ teaspoon pepper: A subtle hint of warmth to complement the creamy sauce.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a gentle aromatic punch without overpowering.
- ½ cup parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, sharp flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley: A touch of herbaceous freshness to brighten the sauce.
- 1 package lasagna noodles: The essential layers that hold all the flavors together.
- 32 ounces ricotta cheese: Gives this lasagna a creamy, luscious filling with a mild tang.
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds depth and umami to the filling mix.
- 2 eggs: Binds the filling ingredients for a smooth, even texture.
- ¾ teaspoon salt: Seasoning that enhances the filling’s natural flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon pepper: A delicate kick that balances the cheese and spinach.
- 8 ounces frozen spinach (thawed and drained): Brings vibrant color, nutrition, and fresh earthiness to the filling.
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken: Tender, protein-rich star ingredient that makes this lasagna hearty and wholesome.
- 18 slices provolone cheese: Smoky, melty, and mild—this cheese creates irresistible gooey, golden layers.
How to Make Chicken Lasagna with Spinach and Provolone Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Noodles
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Once tender but still firm to the bite, drain them and set aside to cool. This step ensures your noodles are perfectly cooked for layering without becoming mushy later.
Step 2: Craft the Creamy Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 3-4 minutes until it turns golden brown and bubbles—this is your roux, the base of your luxurious sauce. Slowly add the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to thicken beautifully. Remove from heat, then stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, parmesan cheese, and dried parsley. This sauce is silky, flavorful, and the perfect complement to the lasagna layers.
Step 3: Mix the Rich Filling
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, eggs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Fold in the thawed and thoroughly drained spinach, followed by the shredded cooked chicken. This filling is a luscious blend of creamy texture, subtle herbiness, and savory chicken that will generously layer your lasagna.
Step 4: Assemble Your Chicken Lasagna with Spinach and Provolone Recipe
In a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, spread about ¾ cup of the prepared sauce evenly on the bottom. Layer three lasagna noodles over the sauce to cover the base. Next, spread half of the chicken and spinach filling over the noodles, followed by six slices of provolone cheese. Spoon another ¾ cup of sauce over the cheese layer to keep everything moist and flavorful. Repeat this layering process with three more noodles, the remaining filling, six more slices of provolone, and another ¾ cup of sauce. Finish off with a final layer of three noodles, leftover sauce, and the remaining provolone slices, creating a gorgeously cheesy top.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden
Place your assembled lasagna in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the sauce is bubbling joyfully and the cheese on top has melted into a lightly browned, golden crust. Once out of the oven, let it cool for 10-15 minutes to set up nicely before slicing—this step ensures every portion holds together with beautiful layers.
How to Serve Chicken Lasagna with Spinach and Provolone Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate this dish even further. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness that contrasts wonderfully with the rich cheese and creamy sauce. For an extra touch of indulgence, a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few cracked black pepper turns each serving into a restaurant-quality experience.
Side Dishes
This hearty chicken lasagna pairs delightfully with crisp, refreshing sides. A simple mixed green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad balances the richness while adding crunch and brightness. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts work beautifully as well, providing a healthy, colorful accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re looking to impress guests or just to add a bit of flair, try layering individual portions in small ramekins or ceramic dishes for a personal touch. You might also serve this lasagna alongside some garlic breadsticks or herb-infused focaccia to soak up every last bit of that incredible sauce. Presentation matters, and this dish lends itself splendidly to both casual dinners and special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftover Chicken Lasagna with Spinach and Provolone Recipe tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious and safe to eat for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers even more tempting!
Freezing
This lasagna freezes beautifully. To freeze, assemble as directed but do not bake. Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual, adding a bit of extra time if it’s not fully thawed. Alternatively, freeze fully baked and cooled portions individually for convenient, ready-to-reheat meals.
Reheating
Reheat your lasagna in the oven at 350°F covered with foil to keep moisture inside. Warm until heated through, about 20-25 minutes for a whole dish or 10-15 minutes for individual servings. For quicker reheating, use the microwave on medium power to avoid drying out the cheesy layers—cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen for this Chicken Lasagna with Spinach and Provolone Recipe?
Absolutely! If using fresh spinach, sauté it briefly to wilt and remove excess moisture before incorporating it into the filling. This helps prevent watery lasagna and maintains the perfect texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the regular lasagna noodles for gluten-free noodles available in most grocery stores. Make sure to check your other ingredients, like broth and seasonings, for gluten-free labels as well.
Can I substitute another cheese for provolone?
Certainly! Mozzarella or fontina are excellent alternatives that melt well and provide a mild, creamy flavor. Feel free to experiment with a blend for more complexity, but provolone’s smoky character is unique and delicious here.
How can I make this recipe ahead for a dinner party?
Prepare the entire lasagna up to assembly, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time, so your dinner is stress-free and impressive.
Is this dish freezer-friendly after baking?
Yes, you can freeze leftover baked lasagna portions. Let them cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze. Reheat gently to avoid drying out, either in the oven or microwave, for a comforting meal any time.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Chicken Lasagna with Spinach and Provolone Recipe enough for anyone craving a dish that’s flavorful, nourishing, and downright comforting. The combination of creamy cheeses, tender chicken, bright spinach, and a delicate white sauce makes every bite a joy. It’s a wonderful recipe to share, impress, and most importantly, enjoy with loved ones. Give it a try—I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to lasagna dishes!
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Chicken Lasagna with Spinach and Provolone Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
This Chicken Lasagna Recipe is a rich and comforting dish featuring layers of tender lasagna noodles, creamy ricotta-spinach and chicken filling, provolone cheese, and a savory homemade white sauce. Perfectly baked to golden bubbly perfection, it serves a crowd and makes a wonderful meal for family gatherings or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
Lasagna and Filling Ingredients
- 1 package lasagna noodles
- 32 ounces ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 8 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 18 slices provolone cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Noodles: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cook the lasagna noodles following the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
- Make the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is golden brown and bubbling. Gradually add the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook until it thickens. Remove from heat and stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, parmesan, and dried parsley to enhance the flavor.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated parmesan, eggs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly. Fold in the thawed and drained spinach along with the shredded cooked chicken, ensuring an even distribution throughout the filling.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Spoon approximately ¾ cup of the prepared sauce into the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch baking dish. Layer three lasagna noodles over the sauce to cover the bottom. Spread half of the chicken and spinach filling evenly over the noodles. Arrange six slices of provolone cheese on top of the filling. Spoon another ¾ cup of sauce over the cheese. Repeat the layering: noodles, remaining filling, provolone slices, and sauce. Finally, top with three more noodles, the remaining sauce, and the remaining provolone slices.
- Bake: Bake the assembled lasagna in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until the sauce bubbles vigorously and the cheese is melted and golden brown on top. After baking, allow the lasagna to cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving to ensure it sets properly.
Notes
- Ensure the spinach is thoroughly thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the lasagna.
- Using cooked shredded chicken saves time; rotisserie chicken works well.
- Letting the lasagna rest after baking helps in cleaner slicing and better flavor melding.
- You can prepare the sauce and filling ahead of time to streamline assembly on the day of baking.
- If preferred, substitute provolone with mozzarella for a different cheese texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American