Lasagna is a timeless comfort food that brings families together around the dinner table. But have you ever tried a chicken and vegetable lasagna?
It’s a delightful twist on the classic, combining tender shredded chicken with a colorful medley of fresh vegetables and layers of creamy cheese and rich tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for those who want a hearty yet wholesome meal that is packed with flavor and nutrients.
Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or prepping for guests, this lasagna will satisfy everyone’s cravings while sneaking in those important veggies.
With easy-to-follow steps and accessible ingredients, anyone can master this dish. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables or cheese.
So, let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken and veg lasagna recipe is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it offers a wonderful balance of lean protein and nutrient-rich vegetables, making it a nutritious option compared to traditional beef lasagna.
Second, it’s incredibly flavorful thanks to fresh herbs, garlic, and a luscious homemade tomato sauce. The layers of creamy béchamel and melted mozzarella bring everything together with the perfect gooey texture.
Lastly, it’s a versatile recipe suitable for meal prep or freezing, so you can enjoy it anytime. If you love dishes that are both comforting and wholesome, this is the perfect fit for your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or homemade)
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling noodles
- Large skillet for sautéing vegetables and chicken
- Mixing bowls
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil to cover the lasagna while baking
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, laying them flat so they don’t stick.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add the garlic, diced zucchini, bell pepper, and mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors. Remove from heat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the lasagna: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Layer 3 noodles over the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then add half of the chicken and vegetable mixture on top. Sprinkle with ½ cup mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layering: another layer of sauce, 3 noodles, remaining ricotta, chicken and veg mixture, and mozzarella.
- Top with the final 3 noodles and cover with the remaining marinara sauce. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Tips & Variations
For a richer flavor, try adding a béchamel sauce layer instead of ricotta cheese.
You can swap out the vegetables depending on what’s in season or your preferences. Spinach, eggplant, or kale are excellent additions.
For a lower-carb option, use thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant as the noodle substitute.
If you want to boost the protein, consider adding cooked Italian sausage or turkey along with the chicken. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add more hearty vegetables or plant-based protein.
To make this recipe ahead, assemble the lasagna but don’t bake it. Cover tightly and refrigerate up to 24 hours, then bake as directed.
It also freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 420 kcal |
Protein | 35 g |
Fat | 18 g |
Carbohydrates | 30 g |
Fiber | 5 g |
Sodium | 650 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This chicken and vegetable lasagna pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a crisp Caesar salad for a classic touch. Garlic bread or warm focaccia bread are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
For a lighter side, consider steamed green beans or roasted asparagus. A glass of chilled white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors wonderfully.
Don’t forget dessert! After this hearty meal, treat yourself with a refreshing dessert like our Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe to end on a sweet note.
Conclusion
This chicken and veg lasagna recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic favorite with a nutritious and flavorful twist. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and creamy cheeses creates a balanced dish that’s both satisfying and wholesome.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or meal prepping for the week, this lasagna will quickly become a go-to recipe. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different veggies or cheeses to make it your own.
For more delicious and nourishing recipes, check out our Pcos Chicken Recipes collection or this hearty Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe. And if you love incorporating veggies in creative ways, you’ll enjoy Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe too!
Happy cooking and buon appetito!
📖 Recipe Card: Chicken and Veg Lasagna
Description: A hearty lasagna layered with tender chicken and fresh vegetables. Perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT45M
Total Time: PT65M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté garlic and bell peppers in olive oil until soft.
- Mix ricotta with spinach and oregano in a bowl.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish.
- Layer 3 noodles, ricotta mixture, chicken, vegetables, marinara, and mozzarella.
- Repeat layering two more times, finishing with mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is golden.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 420 kcal | Protein: 35 g | Fat: 18 g | Carbs: 30 g
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