Description
This Rosemary Chicken Lasagna Layers recipe combines tender shredded chicken infused with fresh rosemary, rich ricotta, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, layered with classic lasagna noodles and marinara sauce. Baked to golden perfection, this lasagna offers a flavorful and comforting Italian-inspired meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Mixture
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Lasagna and Sauce
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Cheeses
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the lasagna later.
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, ricotta cheese, egg, freshly chopped rosemary, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- First Sauce Layer: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Layer Noodles: Place three lasagna noodles side by side over the marinara sauce layer, forming the first pasta layer.
- Add Chicken Mixture: Evenly spread half of the prepared chicken and ricotta mixture over the noodles, ensuring full coverage.
- Cheese Layer: Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken mixture for richness and flavor.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering starting with marinara sauce, followed by noodles, the remaining chicken mixture, and cheeses to build the second layer.
- Final Layer: Finish with the last three noodles, topped with marinara sauce and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses for a cheesy crust.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep moisture in and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Uncover and Continue Baking: Remove the foil carefully and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly, melted, and golden brown on top.
- Cool and Serve: Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving to allow it to set and enhance the flavors.
Notes
- You can prepare the shredded chicken ahead of time to save prep time.
- Fresh rosemary gives the dish a vibrant flavor, but dried rosemary can be used in a pinch (use less if dried).
- Allowing the lasagna to cool slightly helps it hold its shape when slicing.
- For a lower-fat version, consider using part-skim ricotta and mozzarella cheeses.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad and garlic bread.
