Lasagna is a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. Our Chicken Mushroom Spinach Lasagna takes this beloved dish to the next level by adding tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach. It’s a hearty meal that’s packed with flavor and perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
This recipe combines creamy béchamel sauce with layers of savory fillings and melted cheese to create a rich and satisfying dish. We love how the spinach adds a fresh touch while the mushrooms bring a deep umami flavor. Whether you’re a lasagna lover or looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Chicken Mushroom Spinach Lasagna, we carefully select fresh ingredients that build layers of rich flavor and creamy texture. Below are the key components broken down for ease of preparation.
For the Chicken Filling
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Mushroom and Spinach Mixture
- 12 ounces mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button mushrooms work well)
- 10 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembling the Lasagna
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| No-boil lasagna noodles | 9 sheets | Use no-boil for convenience |
| Ricotta cheese | 1 1/2 cups | Whole milk preferred |
| Shredded mozzarella | 1 cup | Reserved for topping |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup | For topping and layers |
Each section combines to make this hearty and satisfying lasagna that bursts with flavors from tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant spinach, all enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Chicken Mushroom Spinach Lasagna perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. Each tool plays a crucial role in ensuring our layers blend harmoniously, textures develop correctly, and flavors deepen beautifully.
List of Essential Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
For cooking the diced chicken, mushrooms, and spinach evenly with proper caramelization.
- Medium saucepan
To prepare the creamy béchamel sauce, allowing precise control of heat for smooth texture.
- Mixing bowls
For combining cheeses and assembling ingredients without cross-contamination.
- 9×13 inch baking dish
The ideal size to layer our no-boil lasagna noodles, fillings, and cheeses perfectly.
- Wooden spoon and whisk
The spoon helps stir the chicken and vegetables while the whisk ensures a lump-free béchamel.
- Measuring cups and spoons
Required for accurate seasoning and ingredient ratios, critical for consistency.
- Aluminum foil
To cover the lasagna during baking, preventing top drying and ensuring even melting.
- Oven mitts
For safe handling of hot pans and baking dishes.
- Sharp knife and cutting board
Essential for chopping chicken, mushrooms, and preparing other ingredients cleanly and safely.
Equipment Overview Table
| Equipment | Purpose | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Large Skillet | Sauté chicken, mushrooms, spinach | Even heat distribution |
| Medium Saucepan | Prepare béchamel sauce | Heat control for smooth sauce |
| Mixing Bowls | Combine cheese and layers | Multiple sizes for flexibility |
| 9×13 inch Baking Dish | Layer and bake lasagna | Suitable size for portioning |
| Wooden Spoon | Stir fillings | Durable for sautéing |
| Whisk | Mix béchamel sauce | Helps avoid lumps |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement | Precision in seasoning |
| Aluminum Foil | Cover lasagna for baking | Retains moisture |
| Oven Mitts | Handle hot equipment safely | Heat resistance |
| Sharp Knife & Cutting Board | Chop ingredients | Safety and precision |
Ensuring we have these tools within reach streamlines our cooking process, delivering a smooth workflow for our Chicken Mushroom Spinach Lasagna Recipe. Let’s gather this equipment and move confidently to the next steps.
Prep Work
To build our Chicken Mushroom Spinach Lasagna, prepping each component carefully sets us on the path to a flavorful, perfectly layered dish. Let’s break down the essential steps.
Preparing the Chicken
- Dice 1 lb of chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the diced chicken, then season with 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through, approximately 7-8 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Sautéing the Mushrooms and Spinach
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add 8 oz of sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5-6 minutes until browned and their moisture evaporates.
- Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
- Add 5 oz of fresh spinach, tossing until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Season with ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper for balanced flavor.
- Remove from heat and transfer the mixture to a bowl.
Making the Cheese Sauce
We create a creamy béchamel sauce enhanced with cheeses to bind all flavors.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 4 tablespoons |
| All-purpose flour | ¼ cup |
| Warmed whole milk | 3 cups |
| Freshly grated nutmeg | ⅛ teaspoon |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | ½ cup |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Freshly ground black pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour continuously for 2 minutes to form a roux without browning.
- Gradually add the warmed milk whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in nutmeg, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, and pepper until the cheeses melt smoothly.
- Reserve this velvety sauce for layering.
By finishing these prep steps, our components will come together effortlessly, giving our Chicken Mushroom Spinach Lasagna its rich, balanced taste and creamy texture.
Directions
Follow these precise steps to create our Chicken Mushroom Spinach Lasagna layered with rich flavor and creamy texture.
Cooking the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in 1 pound diced chicken breasts. Season with 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
- Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and no longer pink inside, approximately 7-8 minutes.
- Remove the cooked chicken from heat and set aside.
Combining the Filling Ingredients
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon butter and melt over medium heat.
- Add 8 ounces sliced mushrooms and sauté until golden and soft, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add 4 cups fresh spinach and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook until spinach wilts, around 2-3 minutes.
- Return the cooked chicken mixture to the skillet. Stir to combine all filling ingredients evenly, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a separate medium saucepan, prepare the béchamel sauce:
- Melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour, cooking for 1 minute without browning.
- Gradually whisk in 3 cups warmed milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Cook until thick and creamy, about 7 minutes.
- Stir in ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, ½ cup Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste until melted and smooth.
Assembling the Lasagna Layers
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Place 3 no-boil lasagna noodles over the sauce, slightly overlapping.
- Spread ⅓ of the chicken mushroom spinach filling evenly over the noodles.
- Dollop and gently spread ½ cup ricotta cheese over the filling.
- Pour ⅓ of the béchamel sauce over the ricotta layer.
- Sprinkle ½ cup shredded mozzarella and ¼ cup Parmesan cheese on top.
- Repeat layering two more times ending with noodles, béchamel sauce, and the reserved shredded cheeses on top.
| Layer Component | Quantity per Layer |
|---|---|
| Lasagna noodles | 3 sheets |
| Chicken mushroom spinach | ⅓ of total filling |
| Ricotta cheese | ½ cup |
| Béchamel sauce | ⅓ of total sauce |
| Mozzarella cheese | ½ cup |
| Parmesan cheese | ¼ cup |
Baking the Lasagna
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow flavors to meld and layers to set firmly.
Now our Chicken Mushroom Spinach Lasagna is ready to serve, showcasing a creamy, savory, and nutrient-rich comfort meal.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing Chicken Mushroom Spinach Lasagna ahead of time not only saves us precious moments on busy days but also enhances the flavors as they meld together. Here are our top tips to master the make-ahead process for a perfectly rich and comforting meal.
Assemble in Advance
- Prepare all components (chicken filling, mushroom and spinach mixture, béchamel sauce, and cheese layers) completely according to the recipe.
- Layer the lasagna in the baking dish, ensuring you follow the precise order for even flavor distribution.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss and odors from the fridge.
Storage Options
| Storage Method | Duration | Handling Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 24 hours | Keep covered; bake directly from fridge adding 5-10 minutes to baking time. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Wrap securely with plastic wrap and foil; thaw overnight in refrigerator before baking. |
Baking from Make-Ahead
- If refrigerated: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove plastic wrap and cover with foil. Bake for 40-45 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
- If frozen: Thaw completely overnight in the fridge. Then bake covered for 50-60 minutes, uncovering during last 10 minutes for golden cheese topping.
Tips for Best Results
- Do not overfill the lasagna layers when assembling to ensure even cooking.
- Use a sharp knife to test doneness by piercing the center; the lasagna should be hot throughout.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to set the layers and make slicing easier.
“Make-ahead lasagna is the ultimate comfort food hack—full of rich, tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach, all perfectly melded in creamy béchamel and melted cheeses.”
By following these tips, we guarantee our Chicken Mushroom Spinach Lasagna will be a crowd-pleaser ready to enjoy whenever the craving hits.
Serving Suggestions
Our Chicken Mushroom Spinach Lasagna shines best when paired thoughtfully with sides and garnishes that complement its rich, creamy texture and savory flavors. Here are some carefully selected serving ideas to elevate your meal experience.
Fresh Salad Alternatives
A crisp salad provides a refreshing contrast, balancing the lasagna’s richness. Consider these options:
- Arugula Salad with lemon vinaigrette and shaved Parmesan
- Classic Caesar Salad with crunchy croutons and a tangy dressing
- Mixed Greens tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a balsamic glaze
Bread Accompaniments
Warm, fragrant bread adds a satisfying crunch and is perfect for mopping up leftover sauce:
- Garlic Breadsticks brushed with butter and herbs
- Ciabatta Loaf sliced and toasted lightly with olive oil
- Focaccia topped with rosemary and sea salt
Beverage Pairings
Choose drinks that complement the dish’s bold flavors without overpowering them. Some excellent choices include:
| Beverage | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Light Red Wine | Pinot Noir or Chianti | Enhances earthy mushrooms and herbs |
| Sparkling Water | With a slice of lemon | Refreshes the palate |
| Herbal Iced Tea | Mint or chamomile | Soothes and balances richness |
Garnish Tips
Adding fresh herbs or a light sprinkle of cheese can enhance presentation and flavor:
- Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top before serving
- Add a dusting of grated Parmesan for extra sharpness
- Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil for shine and richness
“Serving our Chicken Mushroom Spinach Lasagna with thoughtfully chosen sides and garnishes turns a comforting dish into a memory-making feast.”
Portioning and Presentation
For a polished finish:
- Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before serving—it will hold together better.
- Use a sharp knife and serve square portions on warm plates.
- Garnish as desired and serve immediately to enjoy the melted cheese and fresh aromas.
This approach transforms our hearty lasagna into an elegant meal perfect for any occasion.
Conclusion
This Chicken Mushroom Spinach Lasagna brings together rich flavors and wholesome ingredients in a way that’s both comforting and impressive. It’s a versatile dish that fits perfectly into weeknight dinners or special gatherings.
With the right prep and a few simple steps, you can enjoy a homemade lasagna that’s bursting with taste and texture. We’re confident this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen, delivering satisfying meals time and time again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Chicken Mushroom Spinach Lasagna different from traditional lasagna?
This lasagna combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach with creamy béchamel sauce and melted cheese, offering a rich and flavorful twist on the classic meat or vegetable lasagna.
What are the key ingredients for the chicken filling?
The chicken filling uses diced chicken breasts, olive oil, garlic, onion, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper for a savory and well-seasoned base.
How is the mushroom and spinach mixture prepared?
It includes sliced mushrooms, fresh spinach, butter, garlic, salt, and pepper sautéed together to bring a fresh and earthy flavor to the dish.
What ingredients are used in the béchamel cheese sauce?
The sauce is made with butter, flour, warmed milk, nutmeg, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, and pepper, creating a creamy and savory component.
Do I need special equipment to make this lasagna?
Essential tools include a large skillet, medium saucepan, mixing bowls, 9×13 inch baking dish, wooden spoon, whisk, measuring tools, aluminum foil, oven mitts, knife, and cutting board.
Can I prepare this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it in advance, store it in the refrigerator or freezer, and follow specific baking instructions for each storage method to save time and enhance flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage, reheating thoroughly before serving.
What are some good side dishes to serve with this lasagna?
Fresh salads like arugula or Caesar, warm garlic breadsticks or focaccia, and light red wines or herbal iced teas pair well.
How do I get clean slices when serving lasagna?
Let the lasagna cool after baking, then use a sharp knife for clean, even portions.
What garnishes enhance the presentation and flavor?
Fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil add color and a finishing touch that elevates the overall dish.