If you’re craving a comforting yet sophisticated meal, this easy Chicken Lasagna with Rich Ragu recipe is your next favorite dinner. Combining tender chicken, a luscious tomato-based ragu, creamy béchamel, and layers of pasta sheets, this dish offers a hearty, flavor-packed experience that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends, this Chicken Lasagna with Rich Ragu balances traditional Italian charm with accessible ingredients to create comfort food at its finest.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Simple steps and common ingredients make this recipe approachable for cooks of all skill levels.
- Rich and Flavorful: The slow-simmered ragu infused with herbs and spices delivers deep, hearty flavors in every bite.
- Comfort Food Classic: Layers of creamy sauce, cheese, and tender chicken create the ultimate cozy meal.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Perfect for casual family dinners or special gatherings, this dish adapts beautifully.
- Nutrition Boost: Adding lean chicken enhances protein content without overwhelming richness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Chicken Lasagna with Rich Ragu is thoughtfully chosen for its role in texture, flavor, or richness. From fresh herbs to quality cheeses, these essentials come together to build the decadent layers that define this dish.
- Chicken breast: Tender, lean protein that makes the lasagna hearty and flavorful.
- Olive oil: Used for sautéing vegetables and browning the chicken, adding a delicate richness.
- Onion and garlic: Aromatics that infuse the ragu with robust base flavors.
- Carrots and celery: Classic soffritto vegetables for sweetness and texture in the sauce.
- Crushed tomatoes: The foundation of the rich ragu, providing acidity and depth.
- Tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor enhancing the ragu’s intensity.
- Fresh herbs: Basil, oregano, and thyme to bring authentic Italian aroma and flavor.
- Red wine: Optional but recommended for adding complexity to the sauce.
- Milk and butter: Key ingredients for making the creamy béchamel sauce that balances the ragu.
- Flour: Essential for thickening the béchamel to a smooth, velvety consistency.
- Lasagna sheets: The layers that hold all flavors together, either fresh or dried.
- Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese: Melted cheese layers that add richness and a perfect golden crust.
- Salt and pepper: To enhance and balance all flavors in the dish.
Variations for Chicken Lasagna with Rich Ragu
One of the joys of this recipe is how easy it is to tweak based on personal tastes, dietary needs, or just what you have on hand. Feel free to get creative and make it your own!
- Vegetable upgrade: Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the ragu for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free lasagna sheets and substitute flour with cornstarch in the béchamel.
- Spicy twist: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced chili for a kick of heat.
- Dairy-free version: Replace milk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
- Herb variations: Experiment with rosemary or sage instead of oregano for an earthier flavor profile.
How to Make Chicken Lasagna with Rich Ragu
Step 1: Prepare the Rich Ragu
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened and fragrant. Add diced chicken breast, cooking until lightly browned. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, fresh herbs, and red wine if using. Simmer gently for 25-30 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and develop deep flavors.
Step 2: Make the Béchamel Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for a minute without browning. Slowly pour in warm milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of béchamel on the bottom. Lay down the first layer of lasagna sheets, followed by a layer of the rich ragu, béchamel, and a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat these layers, ending with cheese on top for a golden finish.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving to set the layers.
Pro Tips for Making Chicken Lasagna with Rich Ragu
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil and oregano brighten the ragu’s flavor better than dried.
- Don’t skip simmering: Slow-simmering the ragu enhances richness and melds flavors beautifully.
- Layer evenly: Spread sauces and cheese evenly to ensure every bite is perfectly balanced.
- Rest before serving: Letting the lasagna cool slightly makes slicing cleaner and flavors lock in.
- Choose quality cheese: Fresh mozzarella and real Parmesan impact the flavor and texture significantly.
How to Serve Chicken Lasagna with Rich Ragu
Garnishes
Top servings with fresh basil leaves, a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, or a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh aroma that complements the rich layers.
Side Dishes
Pair with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon vinaigrette or serve alongside garlic bread to soak up every last bit of ragu and béchamel.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the lasagna into neat squares and plate with a fresh herb sprig on top. For gatherings, serve portions in individual ramekins for an elegant look that’s both practical and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover Chicken Lasagna with Rich Ragu in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, maintaining the flavors and texture for easy reheating.
Freezing
This dish freezes wonderfully. Wrap tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep layers intact.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, or microwave individual portions until warmed through, stirring halfway to heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought ragu instead of making it from scratch?
Yes, while homemade ragu provides richer flavor, a high-quality store-bought version can save time and still taste delicious.
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for lean texture and easy shredding, but thighs can be used for a juicier taste.
Is it necessary to use béchamel sauce?
Béchamel adds creamy balance to the tomato-rich ragu, but you can substitute with ricotta or a mix of cream and cheese if preferred.
Can I prepare the lasagna a day ahead?
Absolutely! Assembling it a day before allows flavors to meld and makes the baking process quicker on serving day.
How do I prevent the lasagna from becoming watery?
Ensure the ragu is thickened well before layering and avoid overloading with sauce to keep the texture perfect.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Lasagna with Rich Ragu is a true celebration of comfort food made accessible. With its hearty chicken ragu, creamy béchamel, and melty cheeses, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe invites you in with delicious flavors and simple steps. Give it a try—you might just have a new family favorite on your hands!