Creamy White Chicken Lasagna

If you crave cheesy comforting casseroles then this Creamy White Chicken Lasagna might become your new favorite It layers tender chicken artichokes sweet sun dried tomatoes and plenty of melty cheese in a luscious cream sauce for a crowd pleasing twist on classic lasagna

I first made this creamy white lasagna for a family get together and people could not stop scooping seconds The combination of flavors won even the pickiest eaters over

Ingredients

• Shredded cooked chicken breast: this is perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken choose juicy tender meat for the best texture
• Artichoke hearts: these add a briny earthy flavor use jarred or canned and chop roughly
• KRAFT shredded mozzarella cheese: adds that gooey melted top and creamy layers choose a mozzarella with a touch of cream cheese for extra richness
• KRAFT grated Parmesan cheese: bring sharp cheesy depth look for a block and grate fresh if possible
• Sun dried tomatoes: pack a punch of sweet tangy flavor oil packed varieties are more flavorful and keep the lasagna moist
• PHILADELPHIA cream cheese: the creamy base for the white sauce make sure it is softened so it blends smoothly
• Milk: helps thin out the cream cheese and gives richness use whole milk for a silkier sauce
• Garlic powder: a background savory note fresh garlic could be substituted for a sharper kick
• Fresh basil: adds brightness and a pop of color chop just before using for maximum aroma
• Lasagna noodles: hold everything together regular or no boil both work just cook until tender but not mushy

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Creamy Mixture:

Beat the softened cream cheese with milk and garlic powder using an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy Stir in some chopped fresh basil for fragrance and brightness

Mix the Filling:

Combine shredded chicken chopped artichokes one cup mozzarella grated Parmesan and sun dried tomatoes with half of the cream cheese mixture Mix well so each bite is packed with all the flavors

Layer the Lasagna:

Spread a portion of the remaining cream cheese mixture across the bottom of a baking dish Layer on three cooked lasagna noodles then a third of the chicken mixture Repeat this process two more times to build sturdy even layers

Final Topping and Bake:

Finish with a final layer of noodles the last of the cream cheese mixture and the remaining mozzarella cheese Cover with foil and bake in preheated oven until the center is bubbly and everything is heated through This usually takes about twenty five minutes

Rest and Garnish:

After baking let the lasagna stand for about five minutes This resting period makes slicing neater Sprinkle with the rest of your fresh chopped basil for vivid color and fresh flavor

Save

One of my favorite things is the creamy artichoke pieces in every bite The first time my mom and I made this together we could not resist sneaking forkfuls right out of the pan by the stove

Storage Tips

Leftover lasagna keeps well covered in the refrigerator for up to four days To reheat cut individual servings and microwave or reheat the whole pan covered at low heat in the oven It freezes wonderfully Simply wrap tightly double in foil if freezing a whole pan Thaw overnight before baking as usual

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap spinach or sautéed mushrooms for the artichokes if you prefer For a richer flavor use rotisserie chicken thigh meat If you cannot find oil packed sun dried tomatoes soak dry ones in hot water for fifteen minutes Use any good melting cheese if you do not have mozzarella or add some smoked provolone for extra flavor

Save

Serving Suggestions

Pair this lasagna with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete dinner It is satisfying on its own but works beautifully for holiday buffets or Sunday suppers Chilled white wine such as a pinot grigio pairs well with the creamy sauce and herbs

Cultural and Historical Context

While traditional lasagna leans heavily on tomato sauce and red meat this white chicken version is inspired by Italian American comfort food traditions Casseroles using cream cheese and chicken are beloved in many US households and this bake brings those flavors together lasagna style

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of chicken works best?

Shredded cooked chicken breast is ideal, offering tenderness that blends well with the creamy layers.

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, substitute mozzarella or Parmesan with other mild, melty cheeses like provolone or fontina for variation.

→ Is it possible to prepare ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

→ How can I add more vegetables?

Include sautéed spinach or mushrooms between the layers for extra texture and earthy flavors.

→ What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Cover and reheat slices in the oven at 350°F to retain moisture and ensure even warming.