Creamy White Chicken Lasagna

Creamy white chicken lasagna is the answer when you want all the comfort of classic lasagna but crave something extra creamy and rich. Layers of silky cream cheese sauce hug tender chicken shreds, tangy artichoke hearts, and sweet sun dried tomatoes. Mozzarella and Parmesan create that golden cheesy stretch with every slice. This one always wins rave reviews at gatherings and easily feeds a hungry family with satisfying leftovers the next day.

The first time I made this creamy lasagna was for a family birthday and it completely disappeared from the pan Even every single person came back for seconds even those who never liked traditional lasagna

Ingredients

• Shredded cooked chicken breast: adds protein and soaks up the sauce, best use freshly cooked or leftover rotisserie chicken for a juicy bite
• Artichoke hearts: bring tangy earthy flavor, jarred or canned both work, just drain well before chopping
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: melts for that classic stretch and keeps everything creamy, choose a high moisture variety for extra silkiness
• Grated Parmesan cheese: offers sharpness and deep savory notes, it is worth grating your own from a wedge for maximum flavor
• Sun dried tomatoes: infuse each layer with sweet tang, oil packed types are best and keep things moist
• Softened cream cheese: forms the base of the creamy sauce, so allow it to reach room temp for the smoothest mix
• Milk: loosens the cream cheese so the sauce spreads and bakes up creamy, whole milk creates a silkier texture
• Garlic powder: a subtle allium background or try fresh garlic for a punchier taste
• Fresh basil: brings brightness and finishes the dish with color, always chop right before using so the flavor is vivid
• Lasagna noodles: keep the layers together, use regular noodles cooked until just tender or no boil sheets for speed

Instructions

Prepare the Creamy Mixture:

Start by beating softened cream cheese with milk and garlic powder until completely smooth and slightly fluffy Throw in a small handful of fresh chopped basil for an aromatic boost making sure everything is evenly combined so your layers stay silky

Mix the Filling:

In a separate bowl toss together the shredded chicken chopped artichokes grated Parmesan about one cup of mozzarella and diced sun dried tomatoes Pour in half of the cream cheese mixture and stir well This ensures every bit of chicken and vegetable is cloaked in flavor

Layer the Lasagna:

Spread a generous spoonful of the remaining cream cheese mixture across the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking Lay down three cooked lasagna noodles slightly overlapping Top with a third of the chicken filling Continue layering cream cheese mixture noodles and chicken until you have three complete layers ending with noodles on top

Final Topping and Bake:

Coat the top layer of noodles with the last of the cream cheese sauce Sprinkle generously with the rest of the mozzarella Cover the pan tightly with foil and bake in a preheated oven until everything is bubbling and the cheese is melted inside Plan for about twenty five minutes depending on your oven

Rest and Garnish:

Out of the oven let the lasagna sit for about five minutes This helps everything firm up and makes it much easier to slice Scatter freshly chopped basil over the top for a hit of color and fragrance before serving

My favorite part of every bite is catching the creamy chunks of artichoke that pop with flavor The first time I made this with my mom we ended up eating it standing right at the kitchen counter because we could not even wait to sit at the table

Storage Tips

This lasagna actually gets creamier after a night in the fridge so do not hesitate to make it ahead Store in an airtight container for up to four days For freezing wrap tightly in foil Freeze whole or in portions for up to three months Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before baking or reheating covered at low temp

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use shredded rotisserie thigh meat for a richer result Try baby spinach or sautéed mushrooms in place of artichokes for an earthy spin If you only have dry sun dried tomatoes soak them in hot water for fifteen minutes before chopping and adding in Any good melting cheese works for topping swap in provolone or even fontina for a nutty twist

Serving Suggestions

A bright green salad with Italian vinaigrette and simple garlic bread round out the meal beautifully This dish also holds its own at a buffet or Sunday lunch and it pairs well with a crisp white wine like pinot grigio for a refreshing contrast

Cultural and Historical Context

Inspired by Italian American comfort food traditions this lasagna trades traditional marinara for rich creamy layers reminiscent of chicken casseroles loved across the US It is a perfect example of how classic techniques can be adapted for cozy family gatherings and busy weeknight dinners

Seasonal Adaptations

Add roasted zucchini or peas in spring for a lighter feel Swap in roasted butternut squash for a fall inspired version Use fresh sage instead of basil for a wintery herbal note

Success Stories

Friends have called for the recipe after trying a bite and it is now a staple at our family Thanksgiving When you bring out the leftovers for lunch the next day it feels like a treat My youngest declared it the best lasagna ever and that is some high praise

Freezer Meal Conversion

This dish freezes like a dream Assemble everything as usual but do not bake yet Wrap tightly with several layers of foil Label and freeze for up to three months When ready to cook thaw overnight then bake as instructed If baking from frozen simply add extra time covered until hot all the way through

This creamy white chicken lasagna is pure comfort baked in layers. Make it once and it is sure to become a family favorite for years to come.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What type of chicken works best?

Shredded cooked chicken breast is ideal for tenderness. Rotisserie chicken can add richer flavor.

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, mild cheeses like provolone or fontina can substitute for mozzarella or Parmesan for variation.

→ Is it possible to prepare ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking fresh when needed.

→ How can I add more vegetables?

Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms between the layers to introduce more texture and earthy flavors.

→ What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Cover individual portions and warm in the oven at 350°F to retain moisture and heat evenly.

→ How do I make the sauce extra creamy?

Ensure cream cheese is fully softened and blend it smoothly with milk for a silky, lump-free sauce.