Tuscan Chicken Lasagna is a rich and hearty Italian-inspired dish that layers tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and flavorful Tuscan herbs in between soft lasagna noodles. This version of lasagna draws from the rustic flavors of Tuscany, incorporating ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a creamy white sauce instead of the traditional marinara. It’s a delicious twist on the classic lasagna, offering a creamy, savory, and comforting meal perfect for family gatherings or special dinners.
Table Of Content
Tuscan Chicken Lasagna This version of lasagna draws from the rustic flavors of Tuscany, incorporating ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a creamy white sauce instead of the traditional marinara. It’s a delicious twist on the classic lasagna, offering a creamy, savory, and comforting meal perfect for family gatherings or special dinners.
Ingredients
- Lasagna noodles
- Cooked, shredded chicken breast
- Ricotta cheese
- Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese
- Sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
- Fresh spinach
- Garlic and onion
- Italian herbs (basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Heavy cream or a caramel sauce for the creamy base
- Olive oil for sautéing These ingredients work together to create a luxurious, flavor-packed lasagna that is both comforting and indulgent.
Preparation Time
Preparing this lasagna involves a few simple steps but requires some time for layering and cooking. Expect about 25-30 minutes for preparation. Cooking the chicken, sautéing the vegetables, and preparing the creamy sauce all happen within this time frame, while the lasagna noodles can be cooked simultaneously. Once everything is ready, you’ll need additional time for assembling the lasagna layers.
Cooking Time
Once assembled, the lasagna will need to bake for about 35–40 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until the top is golden and bubbly. The total cooking time, including preparing the chicken and vegetables, is around 1 hour. Letting the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes after baking allows it to set and makes serving easier.
Nutritional Benefits
Tuscan Chicken Lasagna offers a good balance of protein from the chicken and a variety of nutrients from the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. The dish is creamy and indulgent, thanks to the cheese and cream sauce, but you can lighten it up by using low-fat cheese or whole wheat lasagna noodles. The spinach adds iron and vitamins, while the chicken provides lean protein.
Serving Suggestions
This lasagna is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance the experience by serving it with a side salad or garlic bread. A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich, creamy lasagna, balancing the flavors. A glass of white wine, like Chardonnay, also pairs well with the Tuscan herbs and chicken.
Garnishing
Once baked, let the lasagna sit for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Conclusion
Tuscan Chicken Lasagna offers a delightful blend of rich, creamy textures and savory flavors inspired by traditional Italian cuisine. The combination of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a luscious cheese sauce creates a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy family meal. Its unique twist on the classic lasagna makes it a standout recipe, with layers of flavor that will leave everyone wanting more. Simple to prepare yet bursting with flavor, this lasagna is sure to become a beloved favorite in any kitchen.