White Chicken Skillet Lasagna: A Delicious Twist on a Classic

Lasagna is a beloved classic in many households, known for its hearty layers and comforting flavors. While the traditional version features a robust tomato sauce, there's a delightful variation that swaps out the red sauce for a creamy, white alternative. Enter White Chicken Skillet Lasagna, a dish that combines the essence of traditional lasagna with a lighter, more elegant twist.

What Makes White Chicken Skillet Lasagna Special?
White Chicken Skillet Lasagna offers a fresh take on the classic by using a white sauce instead of the typical marinara. This dish is not only a great way to enjoy the flavors of lasagna in a different form but also provides a wonderful balance of creamy, savory, and cheesy goodness. The use of chicken makes it a lighter option compared to its beef or sausage counterparts, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to cut down on red meat or simply enjoy a different flavor profile.

Ingredients
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well. You can cook and shred them or use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Lasagna Noodles: No-boil lasagna noodles are ideal for this dish as they cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully.
White Sauce: A creamy white sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and a bit of garlic. You can add Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
Cheese: Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese provide the classic lasagna texture and flavor.
Vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, and onions complement the chicken and add a nutritious boost.
Seasonings: Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like basil or parsley enhance the overall taste.
Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Chicken: Season and cook the chicken in a skillet until it's fully cooked through. Shred or dice the chicken and set aside.

Make the White Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens and add minced garlic, salt, and pepper. For a richer sauce, stir in grated Parmesan cheese.

Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté onions and mushrooms until tender. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Mix the cooked vegetables with the shredded chicken.

Layer the Lasagna: In a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, spread a thin layer of white sauce. Place a layer of no-boil lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by a layer of the chicken and vegetable mixture. Add dollops of ricotta cheese and sprinkle with mozzarella. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sauce and cheese on top.

Cook and Bake: Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and cook on the stovetop over low heat for about 20 minutes. Then, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.

Serve: Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy!

Tips and Variations
Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the white sauce for a bit of heat.
Make-Ahead: This lasagna can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion
White Chicken Skillet Lasagna is a fantastic variation on the traditional lasagna, offering a lighter, creamy alternative that's just as satisfying. It's perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, and its easy preparation makes it a winner for busy cooks. Whether you're a lasagna aficionado or just looking for a delicious new recipe, this white chicken version is sure to please.