Healthy Chicken And Broccoli Lasagna Recipe

Chicken and broccoli lasagna has always been a favorite in my kitchen. I first tried this recipe years ago when I wanted to combine my love for creamy pasta with something wholesome.

I remember serving it at a family dinner, and the entire tray disappeared in minutes! It’s now my go-to comfort dish, packed with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and cheesy goodness.

Let me show you how you can recreate this heartwarming meal at home!

What Is Broccoli & Chicken Lasagna?

Broccoli & Chicken Lasagna is a creamy, layered pasta dish made with cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, lasagna noodles, and a delicious white sauce, often béchamel or Alfredo. 

Instead of the usual marinara, this lasagna offers a milder yet deeply satisfying flavor that pairs beautifully with melted cheese and tender vegetables.

It’s a family-friendly recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

How To Make Chicken And Broccoli Lasagna Step-By-Step

This Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna is a creamy, cheesy delight layered with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a luscious Alfredo sauce. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a wholesome family meal.

Chicken And Broccoli Lasagna
Chicken And Broccoli Lasagna

Recipe Overview

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired
  • Course: Main Course
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Calories Per Serving: ~350

Ingredients

Lasagna Layers:

  • 9 lasagna noodles, boiled
  • 2 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
  • 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and chopped
  • 3 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Variations:

  • Substitute ricotta cheese for spinach for a creamier texture.
  • Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Use gluten-free lasagna noodles if needed.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

  1. Boil The Noodles: Cook lasagna noodles in salted water until al dente. Drain and lay flat on parchment paper to avoid sticking.
  2. Prep The Veggies: Steam the broccoli until tender and chop into small pieces. Sauté mushrooms if using.
  3. Shred The Chicken: If you’re using rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and shred it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Layer The Lasagna

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. First Layer: Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Assemble Layers:
    • Lay 3 lasagna noodles across the sauce.
    • Spread half the shredded chicken and broccoli on top.
    • Add a layer of spinach and mushrooms.
    • Pour 1 cup of Alfredo sauce evenly and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
    • Repeat the layers (noodles, chicken, broccoli, spinach, sauce, and cheese).
  4. Top Layer: Finish with a layer of noodles, remaining Alfredo sauce, and a generous sprinkle of cheese.

Step 3: Bake

  1. Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  2. Uncover and Finish: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  3. Rest: Let the lasagna sit for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set perfectly.

Expert Solutions To Common Lasagna-Making Challenges

  • Why Layering Matters: Ensure even distribution of ingredients for consistent flavor in every bite.
  • Dry Lasagna? Add an extra splash of Alfredo sauce before baking if you’re worried about dryness.
  • Burnt Top? Cover the dish with foil earlier if it’s browning too fast.
  • Soggy Layers? Pat dry spinach or any steamed veggies before layering.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a crisp Caesar salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
  • Pair with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing touch.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.

Is The Chicken & Broccoli Lasagna Healthy?

Absolutely! This recipe can be a balanced meal, especially if you use whole-grain noodles and go easy on the cheese. Broccoli is packed with vitamins and antioxidants, while chicken provides lean protein.

You can also swap traditional white sauce for a low-fat version or use Greek yogurt for extra creaminess without the guilt.

Can You Use Ricotta To Make Chicken Broccoli Lasagna?

Yes, ricotta works wonderfully in this lasagna! It adds creaminess and richness to the layers. You can mix ricotta with a beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt for a smooth, flavorful filling.

If ricotta isn’t your thing, feel free to substitute it with cottage cheese or skip it altogether—this recipe is super versatile.

Does It Matter How You Layer Your Lasagna?

Yes, layering plays a significant role in the final texture and structure of your lasagna. Start with a thin layer of sauce at the bottom to prevent sticking.

Then, alternate layers of noodles, chicken and broccoli mixture, ricotta (if using), and sauce. Finish with a generous layer of cheese on top for that golden, bubbly crust we all love.

How Many Layers Of Lasagna Is Good?

Three to four layers are usually ideal for lasagna. It’s enough to create those beautiful, distinct layers without making the dish too tall or difficult to serve. Of course, if you love extra layers, go for it—just make sure your pan can handle it!

Should I Cover Lasagna While Baking?

Yes, cover your lasagna with aluminum foil for the first 30–40 minutes of baking to retain moisture and ensure even cooking.

Then, remove the foil during the last 10–15 minutes to allow the cheese on top to brown and get that irresistible golden crust.

Can I Make This Ahead Of Time And Refrigerate Or Freeze Before Baking?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. If you want to freeze it, wrap the unbaked dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It’ll keep for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and adjust the baking time slightly to account for the chilled temperature.

FAQs About Broccoli & Chicken Lasagna

Can I Use Fresh Broccoli Instead Of Frozen?

Yes, fresh broccoli works perfectly! Simply steam or blanch it before adding it to your lasagna layers.

What Kind Of Cheese Is Best For This Recipe?

Mozzarella and Parmesan are classics, but you can also use Gruyère or Fontina for a gourmet twist.

How Do I Reheat Leftover Lasagna?

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Can I Add Other Vegetables?

Of course! Mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini make great additions. Just sauté them lightly before layering to avoid excess moisture.

What’s The Best Way To Prevent Watery Lasagna?

Drain your cooked chicken and steamed broccoli thoroughly and avoid using overly wet sauces. Also, let the lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes after baking to set the layers.

This Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna is a perfect balance of creamy and hearty, with layers of flavor in every bite. It’s a family-friendly recipe that’s easy to make and even easier to love. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!

Share your feedback in the comments or tag me on social media with your creations. Let’s keep the lasagna love going!

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Author & Recipe Developer at Naznin's Kitchen
Hello! I'm Naznin Aktar, the food enthusiast and recipe developer at Naznin's Kitchen. Want to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary dishes? Explore Naznin's Kitchen for a collection of recipes that are sure to inspire your inner chef and delight your loved ones.
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