Creamy Pesto Chicken and Spinach Lasagna
Indulge in a delightful twist on traditional lasagna with our Creamy Pesto Chicken and Spinach Lasagna. This comforting one-dish meal pairs tender chicken, hearty spinach, and a luscious creaminess from ricotta cheese, all enveloped in layers of flavorful basil pesto and melty mozzarella. Perfect for family gatherings or meal prep, this lasagna is not only satisfying but also a delicious way to enjoy nutritious ingredients. Serve it with a simple green salad for a complete meal that's sure to impress everyone at the table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
Olive oil
3 tablespoons (Plain)
Onion
1 cup (Chopped)
Garlic cloves
3 (Crushed)
Frozen chopped spinach
24 ounces (Thawed)
Cooked chicken breasts
3 cups (Diced)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (Plain)
Black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (Plain)
Ricotta cheese
2 cups (Plain)
Large egg
1 (Plain)
Basil pesto
1 1/2 cups (Plain)
Basil pesto
2 teaspoons (Plain)
Parmesan cheese
3/4 cup (Grated)
Mozzarella cheese
2 cups (Shredded)
No-boil lasagna noodles
12 (Plain)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Pesto Chicken and Spinach Lasagna?
It is a flavorful twist on traditional lasagna that uses basil pesto, cooked chicken, and spinach instead of a red meat sauce.
What kind of chicken should I use for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 3 cups of cooked chicken breasts that have been diced.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this lasagna?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option for the 3 cups of diced cooked chicken required.
How do I prepare the frozen spinach?
Thaw 24 ounces of frozen chopped spinach and squeeze it thoroughly to remove as much moisture as possible before using.
What are no-boil lasagna noodles?
No-boil noodles are precooked pasta sheets that soften during the baking process by absorbing moisture from the other ingredients.
Can I use regular lasagna noodles instead?
Yes, but you will need to boil them according to the package instructions before layering the lasagna.
Why is there an egg in the ricotta cheese?
The egg acts as a binder, helping the ricotta cheese layer set so it doesn't run when the lasagna is sliced.
What size baking dish should I use?
A standard 9x13 inch baking dish is the ideal size for this 12-noodle lasagna recipe.
How much pesto is needed for the recipe?
You will need a total of 1.5 cups plus an additional 2 teaspoons of basil pesto.
Can I use homemade pesto?
Absolutely, fresh homemade pesto will provide a vibrant and rich flavor to the dish.
Is this lasagna recipe gluten-free?
It is not gluten-free as written, but you can make it so by using certified gluten-free no-boil lasagna noodles.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze this chicken lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap before freezing.
What should I serve with this meal?
A simple green salad or roasted vegetables pair perfectly with the creamy and savory flavors of this dish.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to keep it hearty.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe typically yields about 8 to 10 servings depending on the portion size.
What cheeses are used in this lasagna?
The recipe uses a combination of ricotta, parmesan, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this is a savory and creamy dish. If you want heat, you can add red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, but you should sauté the fresh spinach first and squeeze out the excess liquid to avoid a watery lasagna.
How do I prevent the lasagna from being watery?
The most important step is ensuring the thawed spinach is squeezed completely dry before adding it to the mix.
What temperature should I bake the lasagna at?
Typically, lasagna is baked at 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
How long does it take to bake?
It usually takes between 35 and 45 minutes for the noodles to soften and the cheese to become bubbly and golden.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until you are ready to bake.
Should I cover the lasagna with foil?
It is recommended to cover it for the first 20 minutes to prevent the cheese from burning, then uncover to finish browning.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat individual slices in the microwave or place the dish in the oven at 350 degrees until heated through.
Can I substitute cottage cheese for ricotta?
Yes, cottage cheese can be used as a substitute, though the texture will be slightly different and less creamy.
What ingredients are used for the vegetable layer?
The vegetable layer consists of onion, garlic, and thawed chopped spinach sautéed in olive oil.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it is excellent for meal prep as it holds up well and often tastes even better the next day.
How do I know when the lasagna is done?
The lasagna is done when the edges are bubbling and the top layer of mozzarella is melted and slightly browned.
Can I add other herbs to this recipe?
Yes, fresh basil or parsley can be added to the ricotta mixture for extra freshness.