Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce

When you’re craving something hearty, indulgent, and unforgettable, Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce hits every note. Unlike its traditional tomato-based cousin, this rich and velvety dish brings together shredded chicken, creamy béchamel sauce, melted mozzarella, and tender spinach in layer after luxurious layer.

Whether you’re prepping a cozy weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this lasagna is the comfort classic you didn’t know you needed.

🍗 What Is Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce?

White chicken lasagna is a variation of traditional lasagna that replaces red sauce with a creamy, savory white sauce, typically a béchamel or Alfredo-style blend. It’s built from layers of:

Tender lasagna noodles
Seasoned shredded chicken

Ricotta and mozzarella cheese mix
Homemade creamy white sauce

Sautéed onions, garlic, and spinach

This unique twist is not only rich and comforting but also an excellent dish to make in advance, freeze, and reheat later.

💡 If you’re new to making white sauces, learning how to create a smooth roux-based sauce is essential. Check out this roux tutorial from Serious Eats to build a velvety base with no lumps.

In addition, working with cooked or rotisserie chicken? Be sure to follow safe food handling practices as outlined by the USDA Chicken Safety Guidelines.

🛒 Ingredient Breakdown & Substitutions

For the best flavor and texture, here’s what you’ll need:

Noodles

9 lasagna noodles (boiled or oven-ready)

Cook 1–2 extras in case of breakage

Chicken

3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
Or cook 1 lb of boneless chicken breasts/thighs

White Sauce (Béchamel-style)

4 tbsp butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, garlic powder

Cheese Filling

15 oz whole milk ricotta
½ cup shredded mozzarella
¼ cup grated Parmesan

1 large egg
¼ tsp black pepper

Vegetables & Aromatics

1 yellow onion, diced

2 garlic cloves, minced
3 cups baby spinach, chopped

🔄 Substitutions

Cottage cheese instead of ricotta

Zucchini strips instead of noodles for low-carb
Kale or mushrooms instead of spinach
Use store-bought Alfredo in a pinch

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step: How to Make the Best White Chicken Lasagna

1. Prepare the Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, mix together:

Ricotta
Mozzarella

Parmesan
Egg
Black pepper

Set aside.

2. Cook the Noodles

Boil lasagna noodles in salted water until al dente.
Drain and set aside on parchment paper or a clean towel.

3. Make the White Sauce

In a large skillet:

Sauté onion and garlic in butter (4 min)
Add flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden

Gradually whisk in broth, then heavy cream
Season with Italian herbs, garlic powder, and Parmesan
Stir in chopped spinach until wilted

4. Assemble the Lasagna

In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish:

Spread a thin layer of white sauce on the bottom
Add 3 noodles

Spread ⅓ cheese mixture
Add ⅓ shredded chicken
Repeat layers two more times

Top with remaining sauce and shredded mozzarella

5. Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F
Bake uncovered for 25 minutes

Broil for 3–4 minutes until top is golden

🔁 Make-Ahead, Storage & Freezing Tips

This dish is perfect for meal prep. Here’s how:

Make-Ahead

Assemble completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight

Bake directly from fridge with 10–15 extra minutes

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in airtight container for 3–4 days

Freezing

Freeze fully baked or unbaked for up to 3 months

Wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap

🧊 For the best results, follow these freezing tips for creamy pasta from The Kitchn to avoid sauce separation.

🥗 What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Lasagna

Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce is a rich, indulgent dish on its own, so pairing it with the right sides can help balance the meal and elevate your dining experience. Think of light, crisp textures and bright, fresh flavors to complement the cheesy layers and savory chicken.

🥬 Fresh Salads

A salad adds a refreshing contrast:

Classic Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine, Parmesan, and croutons in a zesty dressing.
Greek Salad – Cucumber, tomato, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta in a light vinaigrette.

Arugula & Lemon Salad – Peppery arugula with lemon juice and olive oil for a simple palate cleanser.

🍞 Breads and Rolls

What’s lasagna without bread to soak up the sauce?

Garlic Bread – Toasted and buttery with herbs, it’s a classic pairing.

Crusty Baguette – Serve warm and sliced for a more rustic feel.
Cheesy Breadsticks – A hit with kids and adults alike.

🥕 Roasted Vegetables

For a healthier touch, add some roasted goodness:

Balsamic Glazed Carrots or Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Zucchini, Bell Peppers, and Onions
Steamed Broccoli with Lemon Zest

🍷 Beverage Pairings

A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio balances the richness.
For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with lemon or a light iced tea.

With the right accompaniments, your white chicken lasagna meal goes from satisfying to spectacular—offering flavor, freshness, and a beautiful presentation for any occasion.

🧂 Nutrition & Calories (Per Serving)

Approximate values (1/9 of pan):

Calories: 530
Protein: 31g

Carbs: 29g
Fat: 32g
Sodium: 1100mg

🔄 Easy Variations

One of the best things about Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce is how easily it can be customized. Whether you’re accommodating dietary preferences or just looking to mix things up, these easy variations ensure the dish never gets boring.

🧀 Cheese Lover’s Dream

Add cream cheese to your béchamel for extra richness.
Swap mozzarella for fontina, provolone, or gouda for a different melt and depth of flavor.

Sprinkle a layer of Parmesan crust on top for a crispy, cheesy finish.

🥦 Veggie-Packed Version

Want to sneak in more vegetables? Add:

Sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli between layers.

Sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a burst of tangy sweetness.
Swap spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a heartier green.

🐔 Meat & Protein Variations

If you’re out of chicken or just want a twist:

Use ground turkey or Italian sausage for a more savory profile.
Add crumbled bacon or prosciutto for a salty, smoky kick.
Mix in cooked lentils or chickpeas for a vegetarian protein boost.

🌱 Vegetarian Option

Skip the meat entirely and bulk up with:

Layers of roasted eggplant, portobello mushrooms, and caramelized onions.
A béchamel made with vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

🍝 Low-Carb or Gluten-Free Twist

Use zucchini slices, eggplant planks, or even cooked cabbage leaves as noodle replacements.
Opt for gluten-free lasagna noodles made from brown rice or chickpeas.

These variations are perfect for using what you already have in your kitchen while still delivering the creamy, comforting experience you expect from a delicious white sauce lasagna. Customize it your way and make it your new favorite family dinner go-to!

Explore similar rich pasta variations like the fiery chicken ramen with creamy garlic sauce to spice up your dinner game.

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce is a relatively simple dish to prepare, a few common missteps can affect the final result. Here are the top mistakes to avoid—and how to fix them:

1. Overcooking the Noodles

Boiling lasagna noodles too long leads to mushy layers that fall apart. Always cook them al dente (firm to the bite), especially since they’ll continue cooking in the oven.

2. Using Pre-Shredded Cheese

Bagged shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Always use freshly shredded mozzarella and Parmesan for the best creamy, melty finish.

3. Skipping Seasoning in the Sauce

White sauce can taste bland if underseasoned. Don’t forget to season your béchamel with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to bring out the full flavor.

4. Too Much Sauce in One Layer

Adding too much sauce between layers can cause the lasagna to become watery. Distribute it evenly and avoid pooling at the bottom.

5. Not Letting It Rest After Baking

Cutting into the lasagna too soon causes the layers to collapse. Always let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing to help it set.

6. Skipping the Broil

Broiling for a few minutes at the end gives you that golden, bubbly cheese topping. Keep an eye on it, though—it can go from golden to burnt quickly.

Avoid these pitfalls and your chicken white sauce lasagna will come out perfectly every time—creamy, flavorful, and structurally sound!

❓FAQs (People Also Ask) About Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce

Q1: Can I use Alfredo sauce instead of making white sauce?

Yes! Store-bought Alfredo is a time-saving alternative. However, homemade sauce offers better flavor control and texture.

Q2: Can I make creamy chicken lasagna without ricotta?

Absolutely. You can use cottage cheese, cream cheese, or even a béchamel-only version.

Q3: How long should it rest before slicing?

Let it rest at least 10–15 minutes after baking. This helps it set and slice neatly.

Q4: Can I freeze this lasagna?

Yes, you can freeze either before or after baking. Just be aware that cream-based sauces may separate slightly upon reheating.

📝 Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce is the ultimate comfort food—rich, cheesy, and full of flavor. With tender shredded chicken, layers of creamy béchamel, and a perfectly melted mozzarella topping, it’s a dish that satisfies both the heart and the stomach. This lasagna is not only great for family dinners but also ideal for entertaining guests or preparing ahead for a busy week.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. Whether you’re using rotisserie chicken for convenience or adding your own twist with vegetables like mushrooms or broccoli, it adapts easily to your preferences. Plus, it freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.

With easy-to-follow steps and widely available ingredients, even beginner cooks can confidently bring this delicious dish to life. Serve it alongside garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to become a household favorite.

If you’re craving a warm, creamy, and satisfying dinner, this white sauce chicken lasagna is a must-try. And don’t forget to explore our related recipes for more cheesy, creamy, and family-friendly meals that keep your table full and your guests happy.