White Chicken Lasagna with Spinach – Creamy, Comforting, and Perfectly Balanced

Introduction

White Chicken Lasagna with Spinach is a comforting yet refined take on traditional lasagna, offering creamy layers without the heaviness of tomato sauce. This dish combines tender chicken, a velvety white sauce, and fresh spinach for a balanced, satisfying meal that feels both cozy and elegant. I first made this recipe when I wanted something rich but not overly heavy, and it quickly became a family favorite. The white sauce brings a smooth, mellow flavor that allows the chicken and spinach to shine, while layers of pasta hold everything together beautifully. It is an excellent option for gatherings, make-ahead dinners, or when you want a dependable baked dish that reheats well. Every slice delivers creamy texture, savory depth, and just enough freshness to keep it from feeling too indulgent.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This lasagna is creamy without being overwhelming, easy to prepare ahead of time, and ideal for feeding a crowd. The combination of chicken and spinach makes it both comforting and well-balanced.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Lasagna Noodles
Lasagna noodles create sturdy layers that hold the creamy filling together and provide structure to the dish.

Cooked Chicken Breast
Chicken breast adds lean protein and mild flavor, making the lasagna filling and satisfying.

Fresh Spinach
Spinach adds freshness, color, and balance, cutting through the richness of the white sauce.

Butter
Butter forms the base of the white sauce, adding richness and depth.

All-Purpose Flour
Flour thickens the sauce, creating a smooth and stable consistency.

Whole Milk
Milk provides creaminess and body, ensuring the sauce coats every layer evenly.

Garlic
Garlic adds savory aroma and enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.

Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta adds a soft, creamy layer that lightens the lasagna and blends beautifully with the sauce.

Mozzarella Cheese
Mozzarella provides meltability and a classic cheesy stretch between layers.

Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan adds sharpness and depth, balancing the creaminess of the sauce.

Salt
Salt ensures each layer is well-seasoned and flavorful.

Black Pepper
Black pepper adds gentle warmth and rounds out the creamy elements.

Directions

Begin by cooking the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and lay them flat to prevent sticking.

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth, cooking briefly to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually add milk while whisking continuously until the sauce thickens. Stir in garlic, salt, and black pepper, then remove from heat.

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with a portion of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan. Gently fold in the cooked chicken and spinach, allowing the residual heat to wilt the spinach slightly.

To assemble, spread a thin layer of white sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Layer noodles, chicken and spinach mixture, white sauce, and cheese. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and cheese on top.

Cover and bake until bubbly, then uncover and bake until the top is lightly golden. Allow the lasagna to rest before slicing to ensure clean layers.

Equipment needed :

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 6 to 8 people. Preparation takes about 30 minutes, cooking time is 40 minutes, and resting time is 10 minutes before serving.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat individual portions in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This lasagna also freezes well for longer storage.

Variations and Customizations

This lasagna is easy to adapt to different tastes. For extra richness, add a small amount of cream cheese to the white sauce. Mushrooms can be sautéed and added for a heartier filling, while artichoke hearts provide a slightly tangy contrast.

If you prefer stronger flavor, add Italian seasoning or a pinch of nutmeg to the white sauce. For a lighter version, use part-skim ricotta and reduced-fat mozzarella.

You can also substitute rotisserie chicken for convenience or replace spinach with kale, ensuring it is lightly cooked first. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free lasagna noodles and flour alternatives for the sauce.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This dish provides protein from chicken and cheese, carbohydrates from pasta, and nutrients from spinach. It is a balanced, vegetarian-adaptable meal when chicken is omitted.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Smooth sauce
Whisk constantly while adding milk to prevent lumps.

Layer balance
Avoid overfilling layers to ensure even cooking.

Rest before slicing
Allowing the lasagna to rest helps it hold its shape.

FAQs

Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, it can be assembled a day in advance and baked when needed.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, it is a convenient and flavorful option.

Do I need to cook the spinach first?

Fresh spinach wilts during baking and does not need pre-cooking.

Can I freeze white chicken lasagna?

Yes, it freezes well either baked or unbaked.

What cheese melts best for this recipe?

Mozzarella provides the best melt and texture.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms, zucchini, or artichokes work well.

Is this recipe very rich?

It is creamy but balanced by spinach and lean chicken.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free noodles and flour substitutes.

Why is my lasagna watery?

Excess moisture from spinach or sauce can cause this; drain ingredients well.

How long should it rest before serving?

About 10 minutes for clean slices.

Conclusion

White Chicken Lasagna with Spinach is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines creamy texture with balanced flavor. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining, it is a reliable recipe that delivers elegance and comfort in every slice.

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