Origin and Region: Chicken Alfredo Lasagna is a modern twist on traditional Italian lasagna, incorporating the classic Alfredo sauce and chicken. While lasagna itself has Italian origins, this variation with Alfredo sauce is more of an international fusion, popularized in various regions where Italian cuisine has made an impact.
Introduction: Chicken Alfredo Lasagna is a comforting and indulgent dish that brings together layers of pasta, creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese. It’s a delightful departure from the classic red sauce lasagna, offering a rich and savory flavor profile.
Ingredients:
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced cherry tomatoes
- Fresh basil leaves
Tips:
- Use a rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken for a time-saving option.
- Choose high-quality Alfredo sauce or make it from scratch for the best flavor.
- Season each layer generously with salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance the overall taste.
- Let the lasagna rest for a few minutes after baking to make slicing easier.
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place three cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Add a layer of shredded chicken, followed by a layer of ricotta mixture and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers until you run out of ingredients, finishing with a layer of Alfredo sauce and a topping of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let the lasagna rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and optional toppings like sliced cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves.
Description: Chicken Alfredo Lasagna is a decadent and flavorful dish that combines the richness of Alfredo sauce with the heartiness of chicken and the cheesy goodness of traditional lasagna. Each layer is carefully crafted to create a satisfying and indulgent dining experience.
Nutritional Information: (Per serving, based on typical ingredients and serving size)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 28g
Conclusion: Chicken Alfredo Lasagna is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions. Its creamy texture, savory chicken, and gooey cheese make it a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite.
Recommendation: Pair this Chicken Alfredo Lasagna with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. Serve it at gatherings for a comforting and impressive main dish. Consider making it ahead of time and refrigerating it until ready to bake for a convenient meal option.