Indulge in a culinary delight that brings together the creamy richness of cheddar, the heartiness of chicken, and the vibrant crunch of broccoli—all layered beautifully in a comforting lasagna! This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Lasagna is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a potluck gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its gooey cheese and wholesome ingredients. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that promises to be a hit at your table!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli, chopped
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- If using uncooked lasagna noodles, cook them according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside. If using no-boil noodles, you can skip this step.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, chopped broccoli, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly to create the filling.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Layer the lasagna as follows: - Place 3 lasagna noodles to cover the bottom of the dish - Spread half of the chicken and broccoli mixture evenly - Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce - Sprinkle 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese
- Repeat the layering process with another layer of noodles, remaining chicken mixture, sauce, and cheese.
- Top with the final 3 lasagna noodles, remaining marinara sauce, and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn't touch the cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes covered, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the lasagna to set.
- Slice into 6 portions and serve hot, garnishing with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the chicken and broccoli mixture a day in advance. Just assemble the lasagna right before baking for a quick weeknight meal.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! Adding mozzarella or a sprinkle of Parmesan can give your lasagna an extra cheesy flavor.
- No-Boil Noodles: If you're in a hurry, using no-boil lasagna noodles can cut down on prep time significantly. They absorb moisture from the sauce while baking, making them a convenient option.
- Resting Time: Allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes slicing easier, ensuring each piece holds its shape.
- Garnish: For an added touch, garnish your lasagna with fresh parsley or basil before serving. It not only enhances the presentation but also adds a burst of freshness.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your lasagna with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete Italian feast that everyone will love!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
