Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Lasagna: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish

Introduction

Lasagna is a popular Italian dish known for its layers of pasta, cheese, and flavorful fillings. While traditional lasagna recipes often feature meat or vegetables, one mouthwatering variation is chicken broccoli Alfredo lasagna. Combining the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce with tender chicken and nutritious broccoli, this dish offers a delightful twist on the classic favorite. In this article, we will explore the step-by-step process of creating this scrumptious chicken broccoli Alfredo lasagna.

Table of Contents : Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Lasagnas

1. Ingredients
2. Preparing the Chicken
3. Blanching the Broccoli
4. Preparing the Alfredo Sauce
5. Assembling the Lasagna Layers
6. Baking the Lasagna
7. Serving and Enjoying the Dish
8. Health Benefits of Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Lasagna
9. Tips for Variations and Modifications
10. Frequently Asked Questions
11. Conclusion
12. Get Access Now

Ingredients for Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Lasagnas

To prepare chicken broccoli Alfredo lasagna, you will need the following ingredients:

• 9 lasagna noodles
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 2 cups broccoli florets, blanched
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cups Alfredo sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by cooking the chicken breasts until they are fully done. You can use grilled, baked, or boiled chicken according to your preference.
2. Once cooked, allow the chicken to cool before shredding it into bite-sized pieces. Set it aside for later use.

Blanching the Broccoli

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the broccoli florets to the boiling water and cook for approximately 2 minutes, or until they are tender but still firm.
3. Drain the broccoli and immediately transfer it to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
4. Once cooled, drain the broccoli again and set it aside.

Preparing the Alfredo Sauce

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic to the pan and sauté until fragrant.
3. Pour in the Alfredo sauce and stir in the dried oregano and basil.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Allow the sauce to simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
6. Remove the sauce from heat and set it aside.

Assembling the Lasagna Layers

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
3. Place 3 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce, slightly overlapping them.
4. Spread a layer of shredded chicken evenly over the noodles.
5. Add a layer of blanched broccoli on top of the chicken.
6. Drizzle a generous amount of Alfredo sauce over the broccoli and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Repeat steps 3-6 to create two more layers of noodles, chicken, broccoli, sauce, and cheese.
8. For the final layer, place 3 lasagna noodles on top and cover them with the remaining Alfredo sauce and cheese.

Baking the Lasagna

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
2. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
3. Once cooked, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Serving and Enjoying the Dish

1. Slice the chicken broccoli Alfredo lasagna into squares and serve it hot.
2. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
3. This lasagna pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread.
4. Enjoy the delicious flavors and creamy texture of this delightful dish!

Health Benefits of Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Lasagna

• Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Broccoli is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, providing numerous health benefits, including improved digestion and strengthened immunity.
• This lasagna incorporates a moderate amount of cheese and Alfredo sauce, which can contribute to calcium intake.

Tips for Variations and Modifications

• For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as fontina or Gruyère, for a unique flavor profile.
• Spice up the dish by adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the Alfredo sauce.
• Substitute whole wheat lasagna noodles for a healthier alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make chicken broccoli Alfredo lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it. Just remember to adjust the baking time accordingly.

2. How long does chicken broccoli Alfredo lasagna last in the refrigerator?
When stored in an airtight container, chicken broccoli Alfredo lasagna can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

3. Can I freeze chicken broccoli Alfredo lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze the lasagna. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

4. Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce instead of making it from scratch?
Absolutely! Using store-bought Alfredo sauce can save you time and effort. Just make sure to choose a high-quality sauce for the best flavor.

5. Can I add other vegetables to the lasagna?
Certainly! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or experiment with different combinations to personalize the dish according to your taste.

Conclusion: Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Lasagna

Chicken broccoli Alfredo lasagna is a delightful variation of the classic Italian dish. With its creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli, this lasagna is a crowd-pleasing option for family dinners or special occasions. By following the step-by-step instructions in this article, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that will leave everyone craving for more.