30-Minute Chicken Lasagna
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Get ready for a quick and delicious take on classic comfort food with this 30-Minute Chicken Lasagna recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy-to-make lasagna combines tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese layers for a satisfying dish that the whole family will love. It's a delightful twist on traditional lasagna that'll have you coming back for seconds!
This 30-Minute Chicken Lasagna is not just quick but also a comforting bowl of flavors that will please everyone at the dinner table.
A New Twist on Tradition
Lasagna is a beloved classic, but sometimes it can be time-consuming to prepare. This 30-Minute Chicken Lasagna is designed with busy cooks in mind, allowing you to enjoy a homemade lasagna without all the fuss. By using cooked chicken and streamlined cooking methods, you can serve up this hearty dish in a fraction of the time, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
This recipe not only saves time but also introduces a twist to the conventional lasagna. By substituting ground meat with shredded chicken, you’re not only lightening the dish but also adding a different flavor profile that pairs beautifully with marinara sauce. This combination of flavors and textures makes it a winner for both kids and adults alike.
Layering Made Easy
One of the greatest joys of making lasagna is the layering process. With this recipe, you'll find that assembling the dish is straightforward and enjoyable. You’ll start by prepping your sauce mixture, then simply layer it with the noodles and cheese. Each layer builds on the last, creating a harmonious blend of ingredients that meld together during baking.
Don’t worry if your layers aren’t perfect—lasagna is all about heart! The flavors will infuse together in the oven, creating a delicious, cohesive meal that’s bound to impress. Plus, you can customize the layers by adding vegetables or different cheeses to tailor it to your family’s taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
To complement your 30-Minute Chicken Lasagna, consider serving it with a fresh side salad. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the cheesy layers and marinara sauce. Another option is garlic bread, which is always a hit at the dinner table. The bread not only adds to the meal but can also be used to scoop up any sauce left on the plate.
For a complete meal, pair your lasagna with a glass of red wine or a sparkling water infused with lemon. This will elevate your dining experience, adding a touch of elegance to your family dinner. And don’t forget—a well-prepared lasagna often tastes even better the next day, making it great for leftovers or meal prep.
Ingredients
Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let's move on to the steps!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your lasagna:
Cook the Noodles
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Layer the Ingredients
In a 9x13 inch baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of the sauce mixture. Layer with noodles, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.
Top with Cheese
Finish by topping with grated Parmesan cheese.
Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Once baked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or other meats!
Tips for Success
To ensure your lasagna comes out perfectly, be sure to cook the noodles just until al dente. Overcooking them can lead to a mushy texture once the lasagna is baked. You want them firm enough to hold their shape while still absorbing flavors from the sauce.
Another tip is to allow your baked lasagna to rest for a few minutes before cutting into it once it comes out of the oven. This resting time allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve and helping to maintain the integrity of the layers.
Storage and Reheating
If you find yourself with leftovers, store the lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze it before or after baking. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
When you're ready to enjoy your leftover lasagna, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This method will help retain the cheesy, melty goodness while preventing it from becoming soggy, ensuring that each bite is just as delightful as the first time.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver for this recipe.
→ Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
30-Minute Chicken Lasagna
Get ready for a quick and delicious take on classic comfort food with this 30-Minute Chicken Lasagna recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy-to-make lasagna combines tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese layers for a satisfying dish that the whole family will love. It's a delightful twist on traditional lasagna that'll have you coming back for seconds!
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
In a 9x13 inch baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of the sauce mixture. Layer with noodles, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.
Finish by topping with grated Parmesan cheese.
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or other meats!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 12g