Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna offers a delightful twist to the traditional lasagna recipe, combining tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and cheesy goodness. This fusion of flavors creates a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Ingredients:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 4 boneless chicken breasts, cut into small cubes
- 12 oz. bag of frozen broccoli, thawed
- 8 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1/4 tsp. Plus 1 T. Salt
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups full-fat milk
- 1 tsp. dried basil
- 2 tsp. olive oil
- 5 Tbsp. Butter
- 5 tsp. Flour
Directions:
- Prepare the Noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt and noodles, cooking for 7-8 minutes until tender. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken and Broccoli Mixture: In a medium skillet, heat olive oil and fry the chicken until fully cooked. Add broccoli, onion, and garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In another saucepan, melt the butter and whisk in flour. Cook for 1 minute, then add chicken broth and milk. Whisk until the sauce begins to thicken. Cook until the sauce coats the back of the spoon. Remove from heat and add basil, salt, Parmesan cheese, and 1/4 cup of mozzarella cheese.
- Combine Chicken Mixture with Sauce: Add the cooked chicken and broccoli mixture to the sauce. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Assemble the Lasagna: In a lightly greased 9″ x 13″ pan, layer noodles followed by a generous portion of the sauce mixture. Sprinkle with a quarter of the remaining cheese. Repeat for a second layer, ending with a topping of noodles. Pour any remaining sauce on top and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the assembled lasagna for 30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling.
Tips:
- Thaw the frozen broccoli before adding it to the chicken mixture to ensure even cooking.
- Be sure to cook the noodles until they are tender but still slightly firm, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Allow the lasagna to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven to set before serving.
Conclusion:
Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna is a flavorful and hearty dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, this lasagna offers a delightful twist on a classic recipe, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the comforting flavors and satisfying textures of this delicious homemade dish!
- Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
- Absolutely! While the recipe calls for a 12 oz. bag of frozen broccoli, you can substitute it with fresh broccoli florets. Simply blanch the fresh broccoli in boiling water for a few minutes until it’s slightly tender before adding it to the chicken mixture. This ensures that the broccoli cooks evenly and retains its vibrant color and crisp texture.
- Can I make this lasagna ahead of time and freeze it?
- Yes, you can prepare Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna ahead of time and freeze it for later use. After assembling the lasagna in the baking dish, cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Label the dish with the date and freeze it for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, remove the lasagna from the freezer and let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Then, bake according to the recipe instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
- Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
- Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version of Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in the sauce. You can also add more vegetables like sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish. Adjust the seasonings to taste and follow the rest of the recipe as instructed. The result will be a delicious and satisfying vegetarian lasagna that everyone can enjoy.
- Can I substitute different types of cheese in this recipe?
- Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. While the recipe calls for shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, you can try using other varieties such as cheddar, provolone, or fontina for added flavor and richness. Keep in mind that different cheeses may melt and behave differently during baking, so be mindful of texture and melting properties when making substitutions. Feel free to mix and match cheeses to create your own unique flavor profile for this delightful Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna.
- Can I use gluten-free noodles in this recipe?
- Absolutely! If you prefer or require gluten-free options, you can substitute traditional lasagna noodles with gluten-free lasagna noodles. There are many brands available in stores that offer gluten-free pasta options made from rice, corn, quinoa, or other gluten-free grains. Follow the cooking instructions on the package for the gluten-free noodles, and assemble the lasagna according to the recipe instructions. The result will be a delicious gluten-free Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary restrictions.
- How can I make this lasagna lower in calories and fat?
- To make Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna lighter and lower in calories and fat, you can make a few simple substitutions and modifications to the recipe. Use low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk instead of full-fat milk in the sauce to reduce the fat content. You can also use less butter or substitute it with olive oil for a healthier fat option. Additionally, you can use part-skim mozzarella cheese and reduce the amount of cheese used in the recipe to cut down on calories and fat without compromising flavor. Incorporating more vegetables and lean protein like grilled chicken breast can also help boost nutrition and reduce overall calorie and fat content. Experiment with different ingredients and cooking methods to create a lighter version of this delicious Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna that fits your dietary preferences and health goals.
