There’s something undeniably comforting about lasagna, don’t you think? Growing up, my family made all sorts of lasagna recipes, each layered with love and cheesy goodness. Yet, it’s the White Chicken Skillet Lasagna that holds a special place in my heart. Not only does it bring a meal together in one delicious dish, but it also has this magical quality of being both creamy and hearty while still feeling light, which I absolutely adore.
I stumbled upon this recipe one busy week when I wanted something comforting but didn’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The best part? It cooks on the stovetop in about 30 minutes! I’ve made countless versions since then, and every time I serve it, there’s not a single leftover in sight. Perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So, let’s dive into what makes this creamy goodness so irresistible!
What’s in White Chicken Skillet Lasagna?
Chicken Breast: Tender and juicy, the star of our show! I prefer using skinless, boneless chicken breasts for ease, and they cook up beautifully in the skillet.
Lasagna Noodles: Instead of the traditional oven-baked method, we use broken lasagna noodles. It’s all about the convenience, friends! I find the no-boil type works really well here.
Ricotta Cheese: Creamy and rich, this cheese adds a smooth texture to the dish. Sometimes, if I’m feeling fancy, I’ll use a flavored ricotta for a little extra kick.
Spinach: Fresh or frozen, spinach is a great way to add some greens and sneaks nutrition into a comfort food classic. Plus, it brightens up the dish!
Alfredo Sauce: For convenience, I often use jarred Alfredo sauce, but homemade is always amazing if you’ve got the time. Either way, it’s the luscious sauce that binds everything together.
Parmesan Cheese: A generous sprinkle of this nutty cheese on top before serving adds that extra layer of flavor. Oh, and please don’t skimp on it!
Is White Chicken Skillet Lasagna Good for You?
Absolutely! While this dish is a comfort food, it also packs a nutritional punch.
Chicken Breast: It’s a lean source of protein which is great for muscle health and keeps you feeling full longer.
Spinach: Not only does it add a pop of color, but spinach is loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. Talk about a superfood!
However, keep in mind that the creamy sauce and cheese do add calories and fat, so if you’re watching your intake, you might want to control the portions or enjoy it as an occasional treat. Balance is key, right?
Ingredients List
– 1 lb skinless, boneless chicken breasts, diced
– 8 oz no-boil lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
– 15 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 (10 oz) package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe serves about 4 people, perfect for a small family dinner or a night with friends.
How to Make White Chicken Skillet Lasagna?
1. **Cook the Chicken:** In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until it’s golden brown and cooked through (about 6-7 minutes).
2. **Mix with Spinach:** Once the chicken is cooked, add the squeezed-dry spinach to the skillet. Stir well to combine everything.
3. **Add Noodles:** Toss in the broken lasagna noodles, mixing them evenly with the chicken and spinach.
4. **Pour in the Sauce:** Pour the Alfredo sauce over the noodle mix. Make sure everything is coated and mixed well.
5. **Simmer:** Cover and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes on medium-low heat until the noodles are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. **Cheesy Goodness:** Once the noodles are soft, remove the skillet from heat. Dollop the ricotta over the top, sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and cover until the cheese is melted (about 3-5 minutes).
7. **Serve:** Give it a gentle stir to combine the melted cheeses. Then dive in and enjoy your delicious, creamy, salty goodness!
Cheesy Tips & Twists
– Feel free to customize: Add in mushrooms, zucchini, or even some sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor twist.
– If you’re short on time, grab a rotisserie chicken, shred it, and mix it in. Instant flavor boost with no cooking involved!
– Top with fresh basil or parsley before serving for a fresh touch and a beautiful presentation.
I really can’t wait for you to try this White Chicken Skillet Lasagna! Cooking should be fun and delicious, and this recipe truly embodies that spirit. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so give it a go, and don’t forget to share your experience! Happy cooking!