Savory Chicken and Roasted Red Pepper Goat Cheese Lasagna
Indulge in layers of flavor with this Savory Chicken and Roasted Red Pepper Goat Cheese Lasagna. Combining tender shredded chicken, luscious roasted red peppers, and creamy goat cheese, this hearty lasagna captures a harmonious blend of Mediterranean tastes. Rich tomato sauce, a hint of balsamic vinegar, and aromatic herbs perfectly complement the creamy bechamel sauce, making it an unforgettable dish for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. This recipe serves 12, ensuring there’s plenty to share or to enjoy as leftovers!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
24
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
1 tablespoon (for sautéing)
onion
1 (diced)
garlic cloves
2 (chopped)
red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon (optional)
diced tomatoes
1 (14 ounce) can (drained)
tomato paste
1 tablespoon (stirred in)
balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon (added to sauce)
oregano
1 teaspoon (dried)
salt
to taste (for seasoning)
pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
cooked chicken
2 cups (shredded)
parsley
1 1/2 cups (chopped)
lasagna noodles
15 (cooked according to package)
butter
1/4 cup (for roux)
flour
1/4 cup (for roux)
milk
2 cups (whole or 2% preferred)
nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon (optional)
goat cheese
6 ounces (softened)
basil
1/2 cup (sliced fresh)
roasted red peppers
3 large (sliced)
ricotta cheese
15 ounces (part-skim)
feta cheese
1 cup (crumbled)
mozzarella cheese
1 cup (shredded)
parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (grated)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent.
2
Stir in the chopped garlic and optional red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant — about 1 minute more.
3
Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
4
Mix the shredded cooked chicken and chopped parsley into the sauce, stir well, and set aside.
5
Prepare the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
6
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until bubbling. Gradually whisk in the flour, cooking until it reaches a light golden brown color.
7
Slowly pour in the milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Add the optional nutmeg and goat cheese, stirring until smooth and thickened.
8
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
9
Layer 1: Place a layer of lasagna noodles across the bottom of the baking dish, followed by half of the prepared chicken and tomato sauce mixture.
10
Layer 2: Add another layer of noodles and sprinkle half of the crumbled feta, half of the chopped basil, and half of the sliced roasted red peppers.
11
Spoon half of the ricotta cheese in small dollops over this layer, and add one-third of the bechamel sauce.
12
Repeat the process with another layer of noodles, the remaining chicken sauce, another layer of noodles, the remaining feta, basil, roasted peppers, ricotta, and another third of the bechamel.
13
Top with a final layer of noodles, pour over the remaining bechamel, and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan on top.
14
Cover tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
15
Let the lasagna rest for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Chicken and Roasted Red Pepper Goat Cheese Lasagna?
It is a Mediterranean-inspired lasagna featuring shredded chicken, roasted red peppers, goat cheese, and a creamy bechamel sauce.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields 12 servings, making it ideal for large families or dinner gatherings.
What kind of chicken should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken. Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking.
How long does the lasagna need to bake?
Bake for 25 minutes covered with foil, then an additional 10 to 25 minutes uncovered until golden and bubbling.
Is there a specific resting time required after baking?
Yes, let the lasagna rest for about 15 minutes before slicing to ensure the layers stay together.
What ingredients are in the chicken and tomato sauce mixture?
The sauce contains olive oil, onion, garlic, red pepper flakes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, oregano, and shredded chicken.
How do I prepare the bechamel sauce for this recipe?
Melt butter, whisk in flour to make a roux, gradually add milk, and stir in goat cheese until smooth and thickened.
What type of milk is preferred for the bechamel?
Whole or 2% milk is preferred for achieving a rich and creamy consistency.
What cheeses are used in this lasagna?
This recipe uses goat cheese, ricotta, feta, mozzarella, and parmesan.
How many lasagna noodles are needed?
You will need approximately 15 lasagna noodles, cooked until al dente.
What purpose does balsamic vinegar serve in the sauce?
It adds a touch of acidity and depth that balances the richness of the chicken and cheese.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes, the recipe includes 1/2 teaspoon of optional red pepper flakes, which you can increase if you prefer more heat.
What size baking dish is required?
A standard 9x13 inch baking dish is recommended for this recipe.
How do I layer the lasagna?
Alternate layers of noodles, chicken sauce, feta, basil, roasted peppers, ricotta, and bechamel sauce.
Can I use fresh herbs?
The recipe specifies fresh sliced basil and 1.5 cups of chopped parsley for the best flavor profile.
How should I store leftover lasagna?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze this lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze it either before or after baking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Why is goat cheese added to the white sauce?
Incorporating goat cheese into the bechamel provides a unique, creamy, and tangy flavor that sets this lasagna apart.
What type of ricotta should I use?
Part-skim ricotta cheese is recommended for this recipe.
Do I need to cover the lasagna while it bakes?
Yes, cover it tightly with foil for the first 25 minutes to retain moisture before uncovering to brown the top.
What is the final topping of the dish?
The top layer is finished with bechamel sauce, shredded mozzarella, and grated parmesan cheese.
Is the nutmeg necessary in the bechamel sauce?
Nutmeg is optional, but it adds a traditional aromatic warmth to the creamy white sauce.
How long should I sauté the onions?
Sauté the diced onions for 5 to 7 minutes until they are softened and translucent.
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
The recipe calls for cooked noodles, but if you use no-boil noodles, you may need to add extra liquid to the sauce.
How much roasted red pepper is needed?
The recipe requires 3 large roasted red peppers, sliced.
What are the primary flavors of this dish?
The lasagna combines Mediterranean flavors from roasted peppers, feta, goat cheese, and fresh herbs.
How do I prevent lumps in the bechamel?
Slowly pour in the milk while continuously whisking the butter and flour roux.
Can I use dried oregano?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of dried oregano for the tomato sauce.
What is the total preparation and cook time approximately?
Between sautéing, simmer time, assembly, and baking, expect a total time of approximately 90 minutes.