Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna – Family Favorite

Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna is not merely a meal; it is a culinary masterpiece, a joyous fusion where two beloved Italian-American comfort food titans unite to create an unforgettable dining experience. I am absolutely delighted to guide you through crafting this exceptional dish, which I believe truly elevates the concept of a rich, satisfying pasta bake. While we often associate lasagna with vibrant tomato sauces and Alfredo with its indulgent, creamy Parmesan base, this recipe masterfully blends their finest qualities, offering a luxurious twist on tradition.

Prepare to fall in love with the ultimate creamy, cheesy pasta layered perfection.

The venerable lasagna, with its roots tracing back to ancient Roman banquets, has always captivated palates with its layered goodness. Meanwhile, the velvety Alfredo sauce, though inspired by Italian flavors, achieved its widespread fame and cherished status in American kitchens. Our rendition, this delightful Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna, takes these well-loved foundations and transforms them into something truly spectacular. Enthusiasts adore this dish for its irresistible combination of succulent, seasoned chicken, perfectly tender pasta, a decadent, smooth Alfredo sauce, and, of course, an generous blanket of golden, melted cheese. Its profound depth of flavor and wonderfully comforting textures make it an instant classic, ensuring every spoonful is pure bliss.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• For the Alfredo Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 6-8 cloves garlic, minced (I love my garlic, feel free to adjust!)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk, warmed (this helps prevent lumps!)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (a little secret ingredient that really enhances the flavor)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• For the Ricotta Layer:
  • 15 ounces (about 1 3/4 cups) full-fat ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• For the Lasagna Layers:
  • 1 (12-16 ounce) box lasagna noodles (oven-ready or traditional, follow package directions for pre-cooking if needed)
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• For Garnish (Optional):
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra grated Parmesan cheese
  • Red pepper flakes, for a subtle kick

Preparing the Chicken

1. First things first, let’s get our chicken ready. I like to pat my chicken breasts or thighs completely dry with paper towels. This helps immensely in getting a beautiful sear. Next, in a small bowl, combine the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, a generous pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning blend generously all over both sides of your chicken. Don’t be shy; this is where we build the foundational flavor for our spectacular Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna.
2. Now, grab a large skillet or a Dutch oven and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be shimmering, but not smoking. Carefully place your seasoned chicken into the hot skillet. If you’re using chicken breasts, sear them for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they’re beautifully golden brown on the outside and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Thicker thighs might take a few minutes longer. The goal here is to get a nice crust and ensure they’re fully cooked. This step is crucial for developing deep, savory flavors that will permeate the entire dish.
3. Once your chicken is perfectly cooked, remove it from the skillet and transfer it to a clean cutting board. Let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes. Please, don’t skip this resting step! It allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring your chicken remains incredibly tender and moist when you bite into your luscious lasagna. After resting, dice the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. I find that smaller pieces integrate better into the layers and ensure you get some chicken in every forkful. Set the diced chicken aside for later.

Crafting the Alfredo Sauce

1. Alright, it’s time to make the heart and soul of our Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna: a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce. In the same large skillet or Dutch oven you used for the chicken (don’t clean it, those browned bits are flavor!), melt the 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and foamy, add your minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it’s fragrant and slightly softened. Be careful not to let it brown or burn, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
2. Next, sprinkle the 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour over the melted butter and garlic. This is our roux, which will thicken the sauce. Whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes, cooking out the raw flour taste. The mixture will form a thick paste. This step is essential for a smooth, lump-free sauce, so keep whisking!
3. Now, gradually add the warmed whole milk, about 1 cup at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition to fully incorporate the liquid and prevent lumps. I find warming the milk slightly beforehand helps immensely in achieving a silky-smooth sauce. Once all the milk is added and the sauce begins to thicken, pour in the heavy cream. Continue to whisk gently over medium heat until the sauce comes to a gentle simmer and coats the back of a spoon. It should be thick, but still pourable.
4. Reduce the heat to low, and stir in the 2 cups of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Freshly grated Parmesan is non-negotiable here; it melts much better and tastes infinitely superior to pre-grated varieties. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated, creating a luxurious, velvety sauce.
5. Finally, stir in the 1/2 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it a taste test and adjust the seasonings as needed. Remember, the Parmesan cheese is salty, so add additional salt cautiously. Remove the sauce from the heat and set it aside. This creamy Alfredo is going to be absolutely divine in our lasagna!

Preparing the Ricotta Mixture

1. While our sauce is cooling slightly, let’s prepare the ricotta layer. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the 15 ounces of full-fat ricotta cheese (I always go full-fat for the best texture and flavor), 1 large egg, 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
2. Mix everything together thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth. The egg acts as a binder, helping the ricotta layer hold its shape and preventing it from oozing out during baking. This savory, herbaceous ricotta mixture adds another fantastic dimension of flavor and creaminess to our Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna. Set this aside.

Assembling the Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish. If you’re using traditional lasagna noodles that require pre-cooking, make sure you’ve boiled them according to package instructions and laid them out on a clean surface to prevent sticking. If you’re using oven-ready noodles, you can skip that step, which is a wonderful time-saver!
2. Let’s start layering! Spread about 1 to 1 1/2 cups of your glorious Alfredo sauce evenly over the bottom of the baking dish. This prevents the noodles from sticking and provides a flavorful base.
3. Next, arrange a single layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce. Depending on your dish size, you’ll typically use 3-4 noodles. If your noodles don’t quite fit, you can break them to fill in gaps; it’s all going to be covered anyway!
4. Now, spoon half of your prepared ricotta mixture evenly over the noodle layer. Use the back of a spoon or an offset spatula to gently spread it out.
5. Sprinkle half of the diced chicken evenly over the ricotta. You want a good distribution of chicken in every layer.
6. Follow that with about 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Who doesn’t love extra cheese? This is a Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna, after all!
7. Drizzle another generous amount of Alfredo sauce (about 1 cup) over the mozzarella layer.
8. Repeat the layering process: Place another layer of lasagna noodles, followed by the remaining half of the ricotta mixture, the remaining diced chicken, another cup of mozzarella cheese, and another cup of Alfredo sauce.
9. For the final layer, place the last set of lasagna noodles on top. Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the noodles, ensuring they are well covered. This is important to prevent them from drying out during baking.
10. Finally, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, making sure to cover the entire surface. If you like, you can also add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for an even richer crust.

Baking and Serving

1. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. I like to lightly spray the underside of the foil with cooking spray to prevent the cheese from sticking, but that’s a personal preference! Place the covered lasagna in your preheated oven.
2. Bake for 30 minutes. The foil helps to steam the noodles and ensure everything cooks evenly without the top browning too quickly.
3. After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Now, return the lasagna to the oven and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly, golden brown, and absolutely irresistible. You want those edges to be slightly crispy and the cheese to be melted and beautifully caramelized. If you notice the top browning too quickly, you can always loosely tent it with foil again.
4. Once your magnificent Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna is out of the oven, this next step is crucial: let it rest! Transfer the baking dish to a wire rack and allow it to rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the layers to set, preventing the lasagna from falling apart when you cut into it. Trust me, it’s worth the wait for perfectly neat, delicious slices.
5. After resting, slice into generous portions. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and maybe a little extra Parmesan cheese, or even a dash of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a subtle warmth. Serve immediately and prepare for rave reviews! This rich, creamy, and incredibly satisfying Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Enjoy every single bite!

Conclusion:

Well, my friends, we’ve reached the grand finale of our culinary journey, and what a journey it has been! I truly believe this isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s an experience, a masterpiece in the making right in your own kitchen. After all the layering, the simmering, and the anticipation, you’re left with something truly spectacular. I’m talking about a dish that effortlessly marries the creamy, comforting embrace of classic Alfredo with the hearty, satisfying layers of a traditional lasagna, all brought together with tender chicken and, of course, an abundance of glorious cheese. It’s the kind of meal that instantly transports you to a cozy, happy place, promising warmth and deliciousness in every single forkful. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration, a testament to the fact that sometimes, the best things in life are indeed rich, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection. Trust me when I say, once you smell this baking, and certainly once you taste it, you’ll understand exactly why I’m so enthusiastic.

The magic of this particular recipe lies in its intricate balance of flavors and textures. Each layer contributes to a symphony of taste: the perfectly cooked pasta, the succulent pieces of chicken, the velvety Alfredo sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan, and the generous blankets of mozzarella and ricotta that melt into an irresistible, gooey dream. It’s a dish that promises to impress, whether you’re serving it to a discerning crowd at a special gathering or simply indulging in a well-deserved treat with your family on a relaxed evening. It truly elevates the concept of comfort food, taking familiar ingredients and transforming them into something extraordinary. This Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna isn’t merely a dish; it’s an event, a culinary landmark that will undoubtedly earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. It’s hearty enough to be the star of any meal, yet sophisticated enough to feel like a luxurious indulgence.

Elevate Your Meal: Serving Suggestions and Delicious Variations

Now that you’re ready to dig into this incredible creation, let’s talk about how to make it an even more memorable meal. For a complete and balanced plate, I always recommend pairing a rich dish like this with something fresh and vibrant. A simple, crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette is the perfect counterpoint, cutting through the richness and adding a refreshing crunch. Think mixed greens, a few cherry tomatoes, and maybe some thinly sliced cucumber – nothing too heavy, just enough to cleanse the palate. Crusty garlic bread or warm focaccia is also an absolute must! It’s perfect for soaking up any extra pools of that divine Alfredo sauce and adds another layer of satisfying texture to your meal. You can even elevate your garlic bread by sprinkling a little extra Parmesan and fresh parsley before serving.

But the beauty of a recipe like this lies in its versatility. While the core recipe is utterly fantastic as is, don’t hesitate to put your own spin on it! If you’re a fan of a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to your Alfredo sauce for a subtle kick. For extra veggies, you could sauté some fresh spinach, thinly sliced mushrooms, or even finely diced bell peppers and layer them in with the chicken. Tender broccoli florets, either steamed or roasted until al dente, also make a wonderful addition, bringing a touch of green and a slightly different texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. Feeling adventurous with your proteins? Cooked shrimp, sautéed until just pink, could be a delightful seafood variation, offering a lighter, yet equally flavorful, twist. Or for a smoky depth, crumble some crispy cooked bacon over one of the cheese layers – bacon always makes things better, doesn’t it? Experiment with different cheeses too! A layer of provolone or smoked mozzarella could add new dimensions of flavor and melt beautifully. If you’re keen on making this ahead, assemble the lasagna completely, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You might need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s going into the oven straight from the fridge. It also freezes beautifully once baked and cooled; simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the oven for a quick and comforting meal.

Your Culinary Adventure Awaits!

So there you have it, my friends. I’ve poured my heart and soul into sharing this recipe with you, and now it’s your turn to bring it to life in your kitchen. I genuinely believe that cooking should be an enjoyable and rewarding experience, and this recipe embodies that spirit perfectly. There’s a profound satisfaction that comes from creating something so utterly delicious from scratch, and I promise you, the aroma filling your home as this bakes is a reward in itself! Don’t be intimidated by the layers; each step is straightforward and incredibly rewarding, leading you to a dish that will earn you rave reviews.

I am absolutely convinced that this dish will become a firm favorite in your home, bringing smiles and satisfied sighs to everyone who tastes it. I truly can’t wait for you to experience the rich, creamy goodness, the tender chicken, and the comforting layers of pasta and cheese that make this lasagna so special. Once you’ve whipped up your own batch, please, please share your experience with me! I absolutely love seeing your culinary creations and hearing about how a recipe works out for you. Did you add a special twist? Did your family rave about it? Snap a photo, drop a comment, or simply tell me about your delightful dining experience. Your feedback and stories are what make this whole cooking community so vibrant and exciting. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and prepare to embark on a truly unforgettable flavor adventure. Happy cooking, everyone!

Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna

A culinary masterpiece, this Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna fuses beloved Italian-American comfort food titans for an unforgettable dining experience. Layers of succulent chicken, tender pasta, a decadent Alfredo sauce, and melted cheese create a truly satisfying meal.

Prep Time
1 Hours

Cook Time
55 Minutes

Total Time
15 Minutes

Servings
8 servings

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 6-8 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk, warmed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 (12-16 oz) box lasagna noodles
• 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
• Extra Parmesan cheese (for garnish, optional)
• Red pepper flakes (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Prepare Chicken: Pat chicken dry, season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt & pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 5-7 mins per side until golden (165°F/74°C). Rest 5-10 mins, then dice.
2. Step 2
   Make Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 1/2 cup butter. Sauté minced garlic 1-2 mins. Whisk in 1/2 cup flour for 1-2 mins. Gradually whisk in 4 cups warmed milk, then heavy cream; cook until thickened. Stir in 2 cups Parmesan, nutmeg, salt & pepper. Remove from heat.
3. Step 3
   Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, parsley, 1/4 cup Parmesan, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Mix well.
4. Step 4
   Assemble Lasagna (Preheat Oven to 375°F/190°C): Spread 1-1.5 cups Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer with noodles, half of the ricotta, half of the diced chicken, 1 cup mozzarella, and 1 cup Alfredo sauce.
5. Step 5
   Repeat Layers: Add another layer of noodles, remaining ricotta, remaining chicken, another 1 cup mozzarella, and another 1 cup Alfredo sauce.
6. Step 6
   Final Layer & Top: Place final noodles, pour remaining Alfredo sauce over them, and sprinkle with remaining 1 cup mozzarella (and optional extra Parmesan).
7. Step 7
   Bake: Cover with foil (optional cooking spray underside) and bake for 30 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Remove foil and bake an additional 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
8. Step 8
   Rest & Serve: Let rest 15-20 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, or red pepper flakes. Enjoy!

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.