A baked lasagna dish with golden cheese topping, featuring chicken, mushrooms, spinach, and creamy white sauce layers.

Chicken, Mushroom & Spinach Lasagna with White Sauce

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Layers of gooey cheese, creamy sauce, and savory chicken make this lasagna a standout. Each bite is a comforting combination of earthy mushrooms, fresh spinach, and luscious white sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and Creamy: The white sauce is infused with garlic and nutmeg for an elegant touch.
  • Packed with Flavor: Chicken, spinach, and mushrooms offer a delightful combination of textures and tastes.
  • Perfect for Sharing: Feeds a crowd and makes for great leftovers.
  • Customizable: Swap out proteins or add your favorite veggies for a personalized twist.

Ingredients for Chicken Spinach Lasagna

Lasagna Layers:

  • 9 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

White Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Chef’s Tip: Pre-shred your mozzarella for quicker assembly, but avoid pre-grated Parmesan for the best flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when your lasagna is assembled.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little butter or olive oil.
  2. Cook the mushrooms for 5-7 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
  3. Add the spinach and cook just until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Set aside the sautéed vegetables.

3. Make the White Sauce

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring to release its aroma.
  3. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
  4. Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking as you go.
  5. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.

4. Assemble the Lasagna

  1. Spread a thin layer of the white sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Lay down 3 lasagna noodles.
  3. Add a portion of the chicken, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
  4. Spoon over more white sauce.
  5. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a layer of noodles topped with sauce and the remaining cheese.

5. Bake the Lasagna

  1. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.

6. Serve

  1. Let the lasagna cool for about 10 minutes to allow the layers to set.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
  3. Slice and serve warm.

Serving Suggestions

  • Side Salad: Pair with a crisp Caesar or mixed greens salad for freshness.
  • Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread for a complete meal.
  • Wine Pairing: A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy flavors beautifully.

Chef’s Tips for Success

  • Perfect Sauce: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to thin it out.
  • Cook Noodles Al Dente: They’ll absorb the sauce without becoming mushy.
  • Shred Your Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents, which can affect melting.
  • Rest Before Serving: Allow the lasagna to cool slightly before slicing for cleaner portions.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 540 kcal
  • Total Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 125mg
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Protein: 36g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on specific ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a quick and flavorful option for this recipe.

What if I don’t have fresh spinach?
Frozen spinach works too! Just thaw it and squeeze out the excess moisture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the lasagna, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Can I freeze this lasagna?
Yes, freeze it unbaked for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 20-25 minutes to the cook time.

Conclusion

This Chicken, Mushroom & Spinach Lasagna with Creamy White Sauce is a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. With its layers of tender chicken, fresh veggies, and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy this creamy, dreamy lasagna masterpiece!

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