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Introduction
This White Chicken Skillet Lasagna is a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, showcasing tender chicken combined with a rich, creamy sauce, layered with lasagna noodles and plenty of cheese. It is a perfect one-pan meal that offers both comfort and satisfaction, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend gathering.
Ingredients
300g boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
15ml olive oil
200g ricotta cheese
125ml heavy cream
250ml chicken broth
150g mozzarella cheese, shredded
50g Parmesan cheese, grated
12 sheets of oven-ready lasagna noodles
100g fresh spinach, chopped
5g garlic, minced
2g dried basil
2g dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the ricotta cheese, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Cook and stir until the mixture is smooth and heated through.
3. Add the chopped spinach, dried basil, and oregano to the skillet. Cook for another 2 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
4. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Break the lasagna noodles into pieces and nestle them into the sauce, ensuring they are well covered.
6. Cover the skillet and allow the lasagna to simmer over low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender.
7. Preheat the oven’s broiler.
8. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the lasagna.
9. Place the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Serve hot, directly from the skillet.
Enjoy this hearty and cheesy dish that brings a touch of Italy right to your kitchen!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the ricotta cheese, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Cook and stir until the mixture is smooth and heated through.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Seasonings
Add the chopped spinach, dried basil, and oregano to the skillet. Cook for another 2 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
Step 4: Season the Sauce
Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to combine.
Step 5: Incorporate Lasagna Noodles
Break the lasagna noodles into pieces and nestle them into the sauce. Ensure they are well covered with the sauce so they cook evenly.
Step 6: Simmer the Dish
Cover the skillet and allow the lasagna to simmer over low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender.
Step 7: Preheat the Broiler
Preheat the oven’s broiler.
Step 8: Add Cheese Toppings
Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the lasagna.
Step 9: Broil the Lasagna
Place the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 10: Serve
Serve hot, directly from the skillet.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time, or substitute different cheeses based on your preference.
Allergy Considerations
Ensure to check for any allergies related to the ingredients, especially dairy or gluten found in the lasagna noodles.
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration
Allow the White Chicken Skillet Lasagna to cool completely before storing. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the lasagna. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, allow to thaw first for even heating.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the White Chicken Skillet Lasagna with a fresh side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A glass of white wine or sparkling water pairs nicely with the creamy flavors of the dish. For an extra touch, sprinkle with fresh herbs such as basil or parsley before serving.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximately):
– Calories: 530
– Protein: 36g
– Fat: 28g
– Carbohydrates: 36g
– Fiber: 2g
– Sugar: 4g
– Sodium: 600mg
Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portions used.
Ingredient Substitutions
– Chicken: Substitute with turkey breast or shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
– Ricotta Cheese: Cottage cheese or cream cheese can be used as a substitute for a similar texture.
– Heavy Cream: Use half-and-half or make a lighter version with milk and a little bit of cornstarch for thickening.
– Mozzarella Cheese: Provolone or a dairy-free cheese alternative can be used.
– Spinach: Kale or arugula are great substitutes for a different taste and texture.
– Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version, or water with seasoning may work in a pinch.
– Seasonings: Fresh herbs can be used in place of dried herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over relatively high heat. In this recipe, the chicken is sautéed until browned, which adds flavor and creates a nice texture.
Simmering
Simmering is cooking food gently in liquid just below boiling point. The lasagna noodles are simmered in the creamy sauce, allowing them to absorb flavors and become tender.
Layering
Layering is a technique used to create depth of flavor and texture. In this skillet lasagna, ingredients are layered together with the sauce and noodles, ensuring that every bite is rich and flavorful.
Baking
Baking, or broiling in this context, is a dry heat cooking method used to finish the dish. The mozzarella and Parmesan cheese are broiled to create a bubbly, golden top that enhances the overall appeal.
Mincing
Mincing is a technique for cutting food into very small pieces. The garlic is minced to release its aromatic oils and flavor, ensuring it blends well into the sauce.
FAQ
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cheeses such as cheddar or provolone, but keep in mind that it may alter the flavor profile.
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! You can use cooked ground turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the recipe ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just be mindful that the noodles may absorb more liquid when stored, so you may need to add a bit more broth before reheating.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the skillet or microwave until heated through.
Can I freeze this White Chicken Skillet Lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze the dish. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it well in foil or place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
This White Chicken Skillet Lasagna is a fantastic alternative to traditional lasagna, providing a creamy and flavorful dish that everyone will enjoy. Its simplicity and ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for busy families seeking a hearty meal. With its combination of succulent chicken, fresh spinach, and gooey cheeses, this dish is sure to become a favorite on your dining table.
Vegetable Skillet Lasagna
Swap out the chicken for an assortment of colorful vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms to create a delicious vegetarian version. Use a mix of ricotta and cottage cheese for added texture.
Mexican Chicken Skillet Lasagna
Add a twist by incorporating Mexican flavors. Use shredded rotisserie chicken, add black beans, corn, and a blend of taco seasoning. Top with Monterey Jack cheese and serve with sour cream.
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
For a fun variation, use the same white sauce mixture and stuff it into pasta shells instead of layering. Bake topped with mozzarella for a delightful presentation.
Buffalo Chicken Skillet Lasagna
Give this dish a spicy kick by mixing in buffalo sauce with the chicken. Top with blue cheese crumbles before broiling for an added flavor dimension.
Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet Pasta
Replace the lasagna noodles with penne or another pasta shape, and add fresh lemon juice and zest for a bright, refreshing taste that complements the creamy sauce.
