I can hardly contain my excitement as I share one of my all-time favorite comfort food recipes with you: White Chicken Skillet Lasagna! This dish has a special place in my heart, and it’s not just because it’s delicious. I remember the first time I made it during a chilly fall evening. My friends came over for dinner, and I wanted to impress them without spending all day in the kitchen. This recipe was a game changer—easy, creamy, and full of flavor, it quickly became the star of the show.
The beautiful layers of tender chicken, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella all come together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or for impressing guests. Plus, let’s be honest—a dish that combines lasagna and white chicken is a win-win in my book. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this tasty creation!
What’s in White Chicken Skillet Lasagna?
Lasagna Noodles: The classic base for lasagna, I love using no-boil lasagna noodles for this recipe. They make the cooking process a breeze since you don’t need to pre-cook them.
Chicken Breast: Tender, juicy chicken is the heart of this dish. I typically use boneless, skinless chicken breast, but shredded rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut if you’re short on time!
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese adds richness and that classic lasagna flavor. Look for a whole milk ricotta for the best creaminess.
Spinach: Fresh or frozen, spinach adds a lovely color and nutritious boost. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to get some greens into this comforting dish!
Garlic: A must for flavor! Fresh minced garlic elevates the dish and fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma.
Chicken Broth: Using low-sodium chicken broth helps to build the foundation of flavor in this dish without overpowering it.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melty, gooey goodness! I always opt for the fresh mozzarella if I can—it makes everything extra delicious.
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese adds a nutty flavor that perfectly complements the dish. Grated or shredded, either works!
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that allow all the flavors to shine.
Is White Chicken Skillet Lasagna Good for You?
You might be wondering if you can indulge in this creamy lasagna guilt-free. Well, let me break it down for you!
Chicken Breast: A lean source of protein that helps keep you full and satisfied. Plus, it’s low in fat compared to other meats.
Spinach: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, spinach adds important nutrients to your meal. Not to mention it’s high in iron—perfect for keeping your energy levels up.
Ricotta and Mozzarella: While cheese is undeniably delicious, moderation is key. These cheeses provide calcium and protein, but they can be high in calories, so if you’re looking to lighten the dish, you can reduce the amount used or opt for lower-fat varieties.
Overall, I’d say this dish is a lovely balance of comfort and nutrition—but like any dish, enjoy it in moderation!
Ingredients List
– Lasagna Noodles (no-boil, 8-10 sheets for a serving of 4)
– 2 cups cooked and shredded Chicken Breast
– 1 cup Ricotta Cheese
– 1 cup fresh or frozen Spinach
– 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
– 2 cups Chicken Broth (preferably low-sodium)
– 1 ½ cups Mozzarella Cheese (shredded)
– ½ cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
– Salt and Pepper (to taste)
Serves: 4
How to Make White Chicken Skillet Lasagna?
1. **Sauté the Garlic:** In a large skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil and set over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
2. **Add the Chicken and Spinach:** Stir in the shredded chicken and spinach. If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure it’s thawed and drained. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
3. **Incorporate Broth:** Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. This is the time to add salt and pepper to taste.
4. **Layer the Noodles:** Begin layering the no-boil lasagna noodles over the mixture. Depending on the size of your skillet, you might need to break some noodles to fit.
5. **Spread the Ricotta:** Take dollops of ricotta cheese and spread it over the noodles. Sprinkle a little mozzarella on top too!
6. **Repeat Layers:** Continue layering the ingredients (noodles, ricotta, mozzarella) until you run out, finishing with a final layer of noodles topped with remaining mozzarella and a generous sprinkle of parmesan.
7. **Simmer and Cover:** Lower the heat and cover the skillet with a lid. Allow it to simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the noodles are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
8. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once it’s cooked, remove from heat and let it cool slightly before digging in. Trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Elevate Your Dish
– **Add More Veggies:** Feel free to sneak in other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
– **Herbs Galore:** Fresh or dried herbs like basil or parsley would make a lovely addition to the layers and enhance the flavor.
– **Spicy Kick:** If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture for a spicy twist.
I can’t wait for you to try this White Chicken Skillet Lasagna! It’s one of those dishes that warms not just your belly, but your heart, too. Whether you’re making it for family, friends, or just for yourself, I promise it will become a new favorite. When you do make it, share your thoughts and any twists you put on it! Happy cooking!
