Chicken And Spinach Lasagna
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Chicken and Spinach Lasagna recipe combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and creamy layers of cheese for a comforting and wholesome dish. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, this lasagna is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Each bite offers a delightful balance of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
This Chicken and Spinach Lasagna recipe combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and creamy layers of cheese for a comforting and wholesome dish.
Nutritional Benefits
This Chicken and Spinach Lasagna is not just a tasty dish; it's a powerhouse of nutrition. With tender shredded chicken as the protein source, each serving provides essential amino acids vital for muscle repair and growth. The fresh spinach adds a wealth of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin A, and iron, which contribute to overall health and vitality.
The combination of ricotta and mozzarella cheeses introduces calcium, which is crucial for strong bones and teeth. Additionally, this lasagna is a great way to sneak in vegetables, making it suitable for those looking to increase their vegetable intake without sacrificing flavor.
Perfect for Family Dinners
This lasagna recipe is perfect for family dinners, where everyone can gather around the table to enjoy a hearty meal. The layers of cheese, chicken, and spinach create an inviting dish that appeals to both adults and children alike. It’s a great way to introduce kids to more greens without overwhelming them, making it a wonderful addition to your family’s meal rotation.
Moreover, baked lasagna can be prepared in advance, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Simply prep the ingredients ahead of time, assemble your lasagna, and pop it into the oven when you’re ready to indulge.
Meal Preparation Strategy
Planning your meals for the week has never been easier with this Chicken and Spinach Lasagna. You can prepare it in bulk and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. Just slice it into individual portions to make reheating quick and easy, saving you precious time during hectic days. It also maintains its flavor and texture well after freezing, so you can enjoy this delicious meal at your convenience.
To optimize your meal prep, consider making two lasagnas at once. One can be baked and enjoyed fresh, while the other can be frozen for a future meal. This strategy not only minimizes cooking time in the long run but also ensures you always have a nourishing dish on hand.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients for a delicious lasagna:
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your lasagna:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Sauté Spinach
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and spinach, cooking until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
Layer Ingredients
In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce, followed by three lasagna noodles, half of the chicken, half of the sautéed spinach, a layer of ricotta, and a layer of mozzarella. Repeat the layers, finishing with noodles, marinara sauce, and a top layer of mozzarella and parmesan.
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.
Cool and Serve
Allow the lasagna to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Enjoy your homemade Chicken and Spinach Lasagna!
Suggested Side Dishes
To round out your Chicken and Spinach Lasagna meal, consider serving a fresh garden salad. The crunch of vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette can complement the rich, cheesy flavors of the lasagna, providing a refreshing balance.
Garlic bread is another classic pairing that adds to the comfort food experience. The warmth and aroma of freshly baked garlic bread will have everyone eagerly waiting for dinner. Plus, it’s great for scooping up extra marinara sauce!
Adjustments for Dietary Preferences
This lasagna recipe is versatile and can be easily adjusted for different dietary preferences. If you're looking for a lower-carb option, try substituting traditional lasagna noodles with zucchini or eggplant slices. These vegetable alternatives will add unique flavors and additional nutrients.
For those who are lactose intolerant or looking to reduce dairy, consider using plant-based cheeses and yogurt alternatives. You can find numerous options that melt and stretch almost like traditional cheese, ensuring the lasagna retains its deliciously creamy texture.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other vegetables?
Yes, you can add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
→ Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble it and refrigerate it for a day before baking.
Chicken And Spinach Lasagna
This Chicken and Spinach Lasagna recipe combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, and creamy layers of cheese for a comforting and wholesome dish. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, this lasagna is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Each bite offers a delightful balance of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Created by: Isla Turner
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6.0
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and spinach, cooking until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce, followed by three lasagna noodles, half of the chicken, half of the sautéed spinach, a layer of ricotta, and a layer of mozzarella. Repeat the layers, finishing with noodles, marinara sauce, and a top layer of mozzarella and parmesan.
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.
Allow the lasagna to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g