Chicken Alfredo Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and loaded with layers of tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and gooey cheese. This version comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or when you want a satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a fan of traditional lasagna or Alfredo pasta, this dish combines the best of both worlds with ease.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to create a creamy chicken Alfredo lasagna, complete with tips for variations, preparation tricks, and serving ideas. Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Chicken Alfredo Lasagna
This recipe consists of three main components: the Alfredo sauce, the chicken filling, and the lasagna noodles. Here’s what you’ll need to make your easy chicken Alfredo lasagna.
The Alfredo Sauce:
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream: This forms the rich base of your Alfredo sauce.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and depth to the sauce.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The key ingredient for that classic Alfredo flavor.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a hint of garlic to complement the creamy sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning to bring out the flavors.
The Chicken Filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded: You can use leftover or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For cooking the chicken if starting from raw.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds extra flavor to the chicken.
The Lasagna Layers:
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked: These will form the layers of your lasagna.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create cheesy layers.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella for topping: To create a bubbly, cheesy finish.
Step-by-Step Guide to Make Chicken Alfredo Lasagna
Follow these steps to make a delicious cheesy chicken Alfredo lasagna in just 30 minutes.
Step 1: Preparing the Alfredo Sauce
- Melt the butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Parmesan cheese: Whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken
If you’re using leftover or rotisserie chicken, skip this step. For raw chicken:
- Heat olive oil: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken: Add the chicken breast and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Shred the chicken using two forks.
- Season the chicken: Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the shredded chicken and mix it into the Alfredo sauce.
Step 3: Assembling the Lasagna
- Prepare the noodles: Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Layer the lasagna: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce at the bottom. Add a layer of lasagna noodles, followed by shredded chicken, more sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat layers: Continue layering the noodles, chicken, Alfredo sauce, and cheese until you’ve used all the ingredients. Finish with a layer of sauce and shredded mozzarella on top.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the lasagna for 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
Tips for a Creamy and Delicious Alfredo Lasagna
- Use fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and adds more flavor than pre-grated options.
- Make-ahead option: You can prepare the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it an easy weeknight dinner option.
- Don’t overcook the noodles: Cook the lasagna noodles until just al dente, as they will continue to soften while baking.
Flavor Variations and Add-ins
There are plenty of ways to customize your creamy chicken Alfredo lasagna to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas:
Adding Spinach or Broccoli for Extra Greens
For a nutritious twist, add cooked spinach or steamed broccoli between the layers of lasagna. These vegetables pair perfectly with the creamy Alfredo sauce and add a pop of color.
Using Different Cheeses
While mozzarella is a classic choice, you can also experiment with other cheeses like fontina, provolone, or even sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Alfredo Lasagna
This easy chicken Alfredo lasagna is a meal on its own, but here are some side dishes to complement it:
- Garlic Bread: Serve with buttery garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, Parmesan, and croutons is a great balance to the richness of the lasagna.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed green beans or asparagus can add a fresh, healthy side.
Why Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Is a Weeknight Winner
This dish is not only delicious, but it’s also quick to make and requires minimal cleanup, thanks to the use of rotisserie chicken and pre-cooked noodles. The creamy Alfredo sauce comes together in minutes, and with just a few simple layers, your lasagna is ready to bake.
For another quick dinner option, check out this easy chicken spinach casserole recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Storing and Reheating Chicken Alfredo Lasagna
Storing
Store any leftover chicken Alfredo lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, but the oven helps maintain the texture of the lasagna.
Conclusion: The Perfect Creamy Alfredo Lasagna in 30 Minutes
Chicken Alfredo lasagna is the ideal combination of comfort and convenience. With creamy layers of cheese, tender chicken, and a rich Alfredo sauce, this lasagna is a dish that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special family meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and time again.
FAQs About Chicken Alfredo Lasagna
- Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Yes, store-bought Alfredo sauce can save time. Just make sure to choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor. - Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe and speeds up the preparation time. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready. - Can I freeze chicken Alfredo lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked lasagna. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. - Can I add vegetables to the lasagna?
Definitely! Spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms are great additions to this dish. - What other cheeses can I use in this recipe?
Besides mozzarella, you can experiment with provolone, fontina, or even ricotta for extra creaminess. - How can I make this recipe lighter?
You can use a lighter Alfredo sauce made with half-and-half instead of heavy cream or opt for low-fat cheese options. - Can I substitute gluten-free noodles?
Yes, gluten-free lasagna noodles can be used to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time.
This cheesy chicken Alfredo lasagna is sure to become a family favorite with its rich, creamy flavors and quick preparation time. Enjoy!