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Introduction
This comforting and creamy White Chicken Lasagna is a delicious twist on the classic, featuring succulent chicken, savory ham, and nutritious spinach. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion gathering, this dish combines layers of tender noodles with a rich white sauce to create a truly delightful meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
250g lasagna noodles
300g cooked chicken, shredded
200g ham, diced
150g fresh spinach leaves
60g butter
50g all-purpose flour
750ml milk
150g mozzarella cheese, shredded
150g parmesan cheese, grated
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
30ml olive oil
Prep Time
25 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Step 2: Prepare Lasagna Noodles
Boil the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic, Ham, and Spinach
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Step 4: Add Ham and Spinach
Stir in the diced ham and fresh spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts. Remove from heat and mix in the shredded cooked chicken.
Step 5: Make the White Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously until a smooth paste forms.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
Gradually add milk while whisking constantly until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano.
Step 7: Incorporate Cheese
Mix half of the mozzarella and half of the grated parmesan cheeses into the sauce until melted and smooth.
Step 8: Assemble the Lasagna
Begin assembling the lasagna by spreading a thin layer of the cheese sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Step 9: Layer Ingredients
Layer the noodles over the sauce, followed by half of the chicken mixture, and more cheese sauce. Repeat the layers, finishing with noodles and remaining cheese sauce on top.
Step 10: Add Final Cheese
Sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheeses.
Step 11: Bake the Lasagna
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 12: Rest Before Serving
Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This lasagna pairs well with a fresh side salad or garlic bread.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen before baking. Simply cover tightly with foil and freeze. Bake directly from the freezer, but add additional baking time as needed.
Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration
Allow the lasagna to cool completely before storing. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
For longer storage, lasagna can be frozen. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Remove any plastic wrap and cover with foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. For individual portions, microwave on high for 2-3 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
This White Chicken Lasagna pairs well with a fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. Garlic bread or breadsticks on the side can also complement the creamy texture of the lasagna beautifully. For a finishing touch, sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top before serving.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (assuming 8 servings):
– Calories: Approximately 420
– Protein: 35g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Dietary Fiber: 2g
– Sugars: 5g
– Fats: 18g
– Saturated Fat: 9g
– Sodium: 650mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
Ingredient Substitutions
– Chicken: Substitute shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked turkey for the chicken.
– Ham: Use diced cooked turkey or sausage for a different flavor profile.
– Spinach: Fresh kale can replace spinach, or you can use frozen spinach (make sure to drain it well).
– Milk: Almond milk or soy milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative for the white sauce.
– Cheese: For a lighter option, use reduced-fat mozzarella or parmesan cheese. Non-dairy cheese can be used for a vegan version.
– Flour: Gluten-free all-purpose flour can substitute for regular flour to make this dish gluten-free.
Cook Techniques
Boiling Lasagna Noodles
Boil the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside to prevent sticking.
Sautéing
In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then add ham and spinach, cooking until the spinach is wilted.
Creating a White Sauce
Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour to create a roux, then gradually add milk while whisking until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
Layering
Assemble the lasagna by layering a thin layer of cheese sauce, noodles, chicken mixture, and cheese sauce, repeating the process and finishing with noodles and cheese sauce on top.
Baking
Cover the assembled lasagna with foil and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Resting
Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes after baking, which helps the layers set and makes for easier slicing.
FAQ
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh spinach can be used and will provide a vibrant flavor and texture.
What kind of chicken should I use?
Cooked rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken works well for this recipe.
Can I substitute the ham?
Yes, you can substitute the ham with cooked bacon or omit it altogether for a simpler version.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Can I freeze the lasagna?
Yes, this lasagna freezes well. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap before freezing. To reheat, bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
Conclusion
This White Chicken Lasagna with Ham and Spinach is a delightful dish that brings a comforting twist to traditional lasagna. The combination of tender chicken, savory ham, and nutrient-rich spinach creates a mouthwatering flavor profile, while the creamy white sauce and melted cheeses ensure a satisfying experience. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, this versatile recipe is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.
Classic Vegetable Lasagna
Replace the chicken and ham with a medley of seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Layer with ricotta cheese and marinara sauce for a hearty vegetarian option.
Four Cheese Lasagna
For cheese lovers, use a combination of ricotta, mozzarella, cheddar, and goat cheese. This rich and creamy lasagna will be a cheesy delight for any gathering.
Pesto Chicken Lasagna
Incorporate a homemade or store-bought pesto sauce into the layers. Combine shredded chicken with pesto and ricotta for a refreshing twist that’s bursting with flavor.
Mexican Lasagna
Use tortilla sheets instead of traditional lasagna noodles. Layer with seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, and a blend of Mexican cheeses for a zesty, fusion dish.
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Instead of lasagna, fill jumbo pasta shells with a mixture of ricotta, spinach, and herbs. Top with marinara sauce and mozzarella for a delightful alternative that retains the same flavor profile.
Lasagna Roll-Ups
Spread the chicken, ham, and spinach mixture onto lasagna noodles, roll them up, and place them in the baking dish with sauce and cheese. These individual servings are perfect for portion control and presentation.
