This White Chicken Skillet Lasagna is a warm and cheesy dish that’s perfect for busy nights. It’s loaded with tender chicken, creamy white sauce, and layers of pasta—all made in one pan!
You can’t go wrong with this easy meal! I love how it cooks quickly, saving time on cleanup. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a big scoop of cheesy goodness at the end of a long day? 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. You can substitute with rotisserie chicken for quicker prep or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.
Milk: Whole milk gives a rich creaminess. For a lighter option, try 2% milk or unsweetened almond milk, but the sauce may not be as thick.
Cheese: Mozzarella is key for that melty texture. You could swap in provolone or a dairy-free cheese. For the Parmesan, nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor as a dairy-free alternative.
Lasagna Noodles: No-boil noodles simplify things! You can use regular dried noodles; just cook them beforehand. Gluten-free options are available if needed.
How Do You Make a Creamy White Sauce Without Lumps?
Creating a lump-free creamy sauce is crucial for this dish. Start by making a roux with butter and flour; this thickens the sauce effectively. Keep these tips in mind:
- Melt butter slowly, then whisk in flour until golden, about 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually add milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. It helps to pour a little at a time.
- Cook the mixture on medium heat, stirring consistently until it thickens and simmers, about 5 minutes.
This technique ensures a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the noodles perfectly! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
How to Make White Chicken Skillet Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups whole milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into pieces to fit skillet (no-boil or pre-cooked)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Time Needed:
This delicious White Chicken Skillet Lasagna takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to cook. You’ll have a warm, cheesy dish ready in just about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Cook them until they are browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, releasing a lovely aroma.
3. Make the White Sauce:
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is lightly golden and bubbly, creating a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring this mixture to a simmer and keep whisking until it thickens and becomes creamy, about 5 minutes.
4. Season the Sauce:
Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine Chicken and Noodles:
Add the broken lasagna noodles to the skillet. Pour the white sauce over the noodles and gently stir to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Then, add the cooked chicken pieces back into the pan, distributing them evenly throughout.
6. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese and all the Parmesan cheese over the top of the mixture.
7. Broil for a Golden Finish:
Preheat your oven broiler. Carefully place the skillet under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, watching closely until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm straight from the skillet, and dig in to enjoy your creamy, comforting White Chicken Skillet Lasagna!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the chicken completely first. You can do this by leaving it in the fridge overnight or using the cold water method—place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and make the white sauce in advance. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply assemble everything in the skillet and follow the baking instructions!
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
What Can I Serve With White Chicken Skillet Lasagna?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You could also serve it with garlic bread for an extra treat!
