Quick Description
A rich, creamy lasagna layered with shredded chicken, tender broccoli florets, and a luscious white sauce. This wholesome family favorite is comfort in every bite — cheesy, hearty, and so easy to make!
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 6–8
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour
- Calories: ~420 per serving (approx.)
Ingredients List
Main Components
- 9 lasagna noodles (regular or oven-ready)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie or boiled)
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the White Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional, for richness)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Noodles:
- Boil lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain and lay flat on parchment or lightly greased foil to prevent sticking.
-
Steam the Broccoli:
- Steam or microwave broccoli just until tender (about 3 minutes). Drain well.
-
Make the White Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to remove raw flavor.
- Slowly add milk and chicken broth while whisking until smooth.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Cook until the sauce thickens (about 4–5 minutes). Remove from heat.
-
Assemble the Lasagna:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of white sauce on the bottom of a 9×13″ baking dish.
- Add 3 lasagna noodles, then half of the chicken, half of the broccoli, and ⅓ of the sauce.
- Add dollops of ricotta and sprinkle mozzarella on top.
- Repeat the layers once more.
- Top with remaining noodles, sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
-
Bake:
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
-
Rest & Serve:
- Let sit for 10 minutes before slicing to allow layers to set.
Additional Notes
- Time-Saver Tip: Use rotisserie chicken and frozen broccoli to speed up prep.
- Make It Creamier: Add ¼ cup cream cheese to the white sauce.
- Crispy Top: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for a golden finish.
Dietary Info
- High-Protein (chicken + cheese)
- Family-Friendly
- Can be made low-carb: Substitute zucchini or cauliflower sheets for noodles.
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
- Milk: Use evaporated milk or almond milk (unsweetened) for a lighter version.
- Cheese Options: Substitute mozzarella with Monterey Jack or provolone for a different flavor.
- Broccoli: Can replace with spinach, kale, or asparagus.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne to the sauce.
- Mushroom Version: Add sautéed mushrooms between layers.
- Serve With: Garlic bread, green salad, or roasted vegetables.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerate: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze: Up to 3 months before baking — wrap tightly with foil.
- Reheat: Bake covered at 350°F (175°C) until hot throughout.
