If you’re in the mood for a comforting, creamy, and indulgent dinner that brings all the flavors you love in one dish, look no further than Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Lasagna. This mouthwatering lasagna combines tender, shredded chicken, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, and layers of gooey cheese for a dish that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, this lasagna is sure to satisfy.
What Is Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Lasagna?
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Lasagna is a twist on the classic lasagna recipe, replacing the traditional tomato-based sauce with a velvety cream sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan cheese. Shredded chicken breast, ricotta, and mozzarella cheeses come together in perfect harmony, creating a comforting and decadent dish that’s rich in flavor yet easy to prepare. This dish is a great option for those who want something a little different from the traditional red sauce lasagna.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Creamy and Rich Flavor
The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan, and garlic creates a luxurious sauce that complements the chicken perfectly. The result is a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor.
2. Comfort Food at Its Best
Lasagna is the quintessential comfort food, and this variation is no exception. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a meal for a special occasion, this creamy lasagna is a crowd-pleaser.
3. Easy to Make
Despite its rich and indulgent flavor, this recipe is easy to prepare. With a few simple steps, you can have a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a gourmet kitchen.
4. Perfect for Leftovers
Like all great lasagnas, this dish makes fantastic leftovers. The flavors continue to meld together, and the lasagna tastes just as delicious the next day—if you have any left!
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Lasagna
Here’s what you’ll need to create this irresistible dish:
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12 lasagna noodles: Classic pasta that forms the layers of this hearty dish.
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2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the garlic and starting the sauce.
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast: Cooked and shredded for a protein-packed filling.
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4 cloves garlic: Minced for that signature garlic flavor that enhances the creamy sauce.
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2 cups heavy cream: This gives the sauce its rich, velvety texture.
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1 cup chicken broth: Adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
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1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese: For the signature Parmesan flavor.
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1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: For melty, gooey layers in the lasagna.
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1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and helps bind the layers together.
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1 tbsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses the sauce with aromatic flavors.
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½ tsp salt: Enhances the flavors of the sauce.
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½ tsp black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and balances the richness of the cream.
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2 tbsp fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish and a burst of freshness.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Lasagna
This recipe is simple to follow, even for novice cooks. The steps are straightforward and don’t require any advanced cooking techniques, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Step 1: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
Start by boiling the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Once they’re cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside. Make sure the noodles are tender but firm enough to hold up through the layers. If you’re using no-boil noodles, skip this step.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant but not browned. Add the heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper to the pan. Stir everything together until the sauce starts to thicken, about 5-7 minutes. The sauce should be smooth and creamy, with a rich garlic-Parmesan flavor.
Step 3: Combine Chicken & Ricotta
Once the sauce has thickened, it’s time to add the shredded chicken and ricotta cheese. Stir them into the sauce, ensuring everything is well combined. Add the Italian seasoning and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella to the mixture. The mozzarella will melt into the sauce, adding even more creaminess and flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
Now, it’s time to build the lasagna. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil or non-stick cooking spray. Begin with a layer of cooked lasagna noodles at the bottom of the dish. Spread a layer of the creamy chicken mixture over the noodles, followed by a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, using up all the noodles and chicken mixture. For the top layer, finish with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Lasagna
Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The lasagna should be cooked through and the cheese should be melted and slightly browned on top.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the lasagna is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley to add a pop of color and a burst of freshness. Slice into squares and serve hot.
Tips for Making the Best Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Lasagna
1. Use Fresh Chicken
For the best flavor and texture, use freshly cooked chicken breast. Grilled or pan-seared chicken adds a bit of smoky flavor, which works wonderfully in this creamy lasagna. Alternatively, you can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
2. Don’t Overcook the Sauce
When making the sauce, be sure not to overcook it. The sauce should thicken just enough to coat the back of a spoon but shouldn’t become too thick or curdled. If it gets too thick, simply add a splash more chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
3. Layering the Lasagna
For best results, make sure your lasagna layers are even. This helps ensure every bite is filled with a perfect balance of noodles, chicken, and creamy sauce. If you’re using no-boil noodles, make sure they’re covered thoroughly with the sauce to cook properly.
4. Customize the Cheese
Feel free to get creative with the cheeses. If you prefer a sharper flavor, use Asiago or Pecorino Romano in place of some of the Parmesan. A blend of different cheeses will elevate the flavor of the lasagna.
5. Let the Lasagna Rest
After baking, let the lasagna rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to serve clean slices.
Nutritional Information
While this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Lasagna is undeniably rich and indulgent, it’s also packed with protein from the chicken and cheese. Each serving contains approximately:
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Calories: 400-500 per serving (depending on portion size)
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Protein: 30g
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Carbs: 40g
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Fat: 20g
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Fiber: 2g
While it’s a heavier meal, it’s perfect for a filling family dinner or a special occasion.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
If you love creamy, cheesy lasagnas like this one, here are some more recipes you’ll definitely enjoy:
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One-Pot Spinach & Tomato Pasta – A quick and easy pasta dish packed with veggies and a creamy sauce.
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Million Dollar Lasagna – A rich, indulgent lasagna with layers of cheese and a savory beef filling.
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Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Lasagna – A creamy lasagna filled with chicken, bacon, and ranch flavors.
FAQs about Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Lasagna
1. Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the lasagna in advance. Assemble it the day before, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just preheat the oven and bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute Parmesan with Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. You can also mix in other cheeses like Gouda or cheddar for a different twist.
3. Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Yes, you can replace the chicken with turkey or even ground beef if preferred. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
4. Is it possible to make this lasagna gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free lasagna noodles, and check the labels on other ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Lasagna
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Lasagna is the perfect dish for anyone craving something rich, cheesy, and utterly comforting. The creamy garlic sauce combined with tender chicken and layers of melted mozzarella and Parmesan makes every bite a dream. Whether it’s a family meal, a special occasion, or just a cozy dinner, this lasagna is sure to become a favorite. With easy-to-follow steps and ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, it’s a simple yet satisfying recipe that delivers on taste every time.
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Lasagna Recipe for Comfort
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Indulge in a comforting dish of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Lasagna. This rich and creamy lasagna layers tender chicken, a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce, and gooey melted cheeses, making it the perfect hearty meal for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
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12 lasagna noodles
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cups heavy cream
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1 cup chicken broth
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1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
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1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 cup ricotta cheese
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1 tbsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
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Cook Lasagna Noodles: Boil lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
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Prepare Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Stir until the sauce thickens.
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Combine Chicken & Ricotta: Stir in the shredded chicken and ricotta cheese. Add Italian seasoning and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
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Assemble Lasagna: In a 9×13 baking dish, layer noodles, chicken mixture, and a little more mozzarella. Repeat layers and top with remaining mozzarella cheese.
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Bake & Serve: Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
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For a healthier version, you can substitute the heavy cream with a lower-fat cream or milk.
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Feel free to substitute the chicken with cooked turkey or a vegetarian option such as sautéed mushrooms.
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Prepare the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate overnight before baking for an easy, make-ahead meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of the lasagna)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: creamy garlic Parmesan lasagna, chicken lasagna, easy lasagna recipe, comfort food lasagna