Marry Me Chicken Lasagna is a delightful twist on a classic dish that combines layers of rich flavors and creamy textures. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner. Its unique blend of chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy sauce is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Why Make This Recipe
There are so many reasons to make Marry Me Chicken Lasagna. First, it is incredibly satisfying and comforting, making it a great choice for cooler days. Second, this dish is a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken. Lastly, who wouldn’t want a meal that brings people together? This lasagna will likely have your loved ones asking for seconds, and maybe even a proposal!
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Lasagna
Making Marry Me Chicken Lasagna is easy with the right ingredients and steps. Below are the key ingredients and simple directions to help you create this dish.
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles (uncooked)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 (8-ounce) jar sun-dried tomatoes (drained, julienne cut)
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 2 cups chopped spinach
- 2½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Directions
Lasagna and Meat Sauce: Start by preparing the sauce. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, whisk in the flour and keep stirring for about 2 minutes. Gradually add the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking until smooth. Stir in parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the shredded chicken and chopped spinach to the sauce.
Ricotta Layer: In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until smooth.
To Assemble: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a layer of the chicken mixture in the bottom of a baking dish. Place 4 lasagna noodles on top. Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then add more of the chicken mixture. Repeat these layers until you have three layers, ending with the chicken sauce on top. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over everything.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Lasagna
Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it warm alongside a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for sharing, so don’t hesitate to bring people together around the table!
How to Store Marry Me Chicken Lasagna
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the lasagna for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing.
Tips to Make Marry Me Chicken Lasagna
- Use pre-cooked shredded rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Let the lasagna sit for about 15 minutes after baking to help it set before serving.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by swapping the chicken for cooked and crumbled Italian sausage or adding more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for a heartier dish. Additionally, using gluten-free lasagna noodles can make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
FAQs
1. Can I use cooked lasagna noodles instead of uncooked?
Yes, you can use cooked lasagna noodles. Just make sure to adjust the baking time as they will require less cooking.
2. How long does Marry Me Chicken Lasagna last in the fridge?
It can last up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
3. Can I make this lasagna in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you are ready to bake it. Just add a few more minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Marry Me Chicken Lasagna
Ingredients
Lasagna Ingredients
- 12 noodles 12 lasagna noodles (uncooked)
- ¼ cup ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- ¼ cup ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup 1 cup chicken broth
- 2½ cups 2½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 jar 1 (8-ounce) jar sun-dried tomatoes (drained, julienne cut)
- 2 teaspoons 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
- to taste Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 2 cups 2 cups chopped spinach
- 2½ cups 2½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 container 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1 cup 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 large 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Lasagna Sauce Preparation
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Whisk in the flour and keep stirring for about 2 minutes.
- Gradually add the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
- Stir in parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add the shredded chicken and chopped spinach to the sauce.
Ricotta Layer Preparation
- In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until smooth.
Assembly
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a layer of the chicken mixture in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place 4 lasagna noodles on top.
- Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then add more of the chicken mixture.
- Repeat these layers until you have three layers, ending with the chicken sauce on top.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over everything.
