A comforting and satisfying dish, Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Lasagna combines the richness of cheesy layers with the fresh crunch of broccoli and tender chicken. The creaminess of the cheese sauce melds beautifully with the flavor-packed chicken and nutritious broccoli, creating a savory meal that’s perfect for family dinners or a special occasion. Whether you’re a lasagna lover or new to the dish, this version will quickly become a favorite.

Not only is this lasagna full of delicious ingredients, but it’s also a great way to sneak in some vegetables while still indulging in the creamy, cheesy goodness you crave. With its hearty layers and flavor balance, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy all your comfort food needs.

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Lasagna

This lasagna recipe is an ideal way to switch up the classic lasagna while still keeping all the flavors you love. The combination of fresh broccoli, creamy cheddar cheese, and succulent chicken creates a satisfying bite in every layer. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a deliciously wholesome alternative to traditional meat-heavy lasagnas. Whether you’re cooking for the family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is bound to impress with its rich flavor and beautiful presentation.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment + Importance of Each Tool)

To make this Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Lasagna, you’ll need a few essential tools to help bring everything together efficiently. Here’s a list of the most important ones:

Large Pot: For boiling the lasagna noodles and blanching the broccoli, a large pot ensures you can handle the quantity of ingredients without overcrowding.
9×13-inch Baking Dish: This is the perfect size for building and baking your lasagna. It gives you enough space to layer the noodles, chicken, cheese, and broccoli without making a mess.
Sauté Pan: To cook the chicken, a sauté pan is ideal for searing the chicken and making sure it’s fully cooked before layering it into the lasagna.
Mixing Bowls: A couple of medium-sized bowls will help you mix the cheese filling and other ingredients before adding them to the lasagna.
Sharp Knife: You’ll need a sharp knife to dice the chicken and chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces.

These tools make sure your cooking process is organized and smooth, resulting in a beautifully layered and baked lasagna.

Preparation Tips

Pre-cook the Chicken: To save time, cook the chicken in advance so it has time to cool and can be shredded easily. This helps the lasagna layer seamlessly with cooked chicken pieces, avoiding any raw texture.
Blanch the Broccoli: Don’t skip blanching the broccoli before adding it to the lasagna. It helps maintain its color, texture, and flavor while also removing any bitterness.
Use Fresh Cheese: For the best melting and flavor, use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded. Pre-shredded cheese can contain anti-caking agents that can affect the cheese’s meltability.
Make a Creamy Sauce: When preparing the cheese sauce, make sure to continuously stir and cook on low heat to avoid any curdling, ensuring a smooth and velvety texture.
Layer Carefully: Take time to evenly layer the noodles, cheese, broccoli, and chicken. This ensures each bite will have a balanced amount of all the delicious ingredients.

Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Lasagna

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this hearty, cheesy lasagna:

12 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking the chicken)
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
3 cups fresh broccoli florets, blanched
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 large eggs
2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup milk
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

This combination of cheeses, vegetables, and savory seasonings will bring an amazing depth of flavor to each bite.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Lasagna

Step 1: Prepare the Lasagna Noodles

If you’re using regular lasagna noodles, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside, spreading them out to prevent sticking.
If you’re using no-boil noodles, you can skip this step and go straight to the next one.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes, until fully cooked through and lightly browned. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Once cooked, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Blanch the Broccoli

Bring a small pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for about 2 minutes, until tender yet still crisp. Drain the broccoli and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, garlic, and Italian seasoning (if using). Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, eggs, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine.
Gradually add the warm cream mixture to the cheese mixture, stirring until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of the cheese sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer 4 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Spread half of the shredded chicken evenly over the noodles, then add half of the broccoli and a third of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers, adding the remaining noodles, chicken, broccoli, and cheese mixture.
Top the final layer with the remaining shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.

Step 6: Bake the Lasagna

Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the lasagna is golden brown on top.
Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

Notes

Customizing with Other Vegetables: If you want to add more veggies, consider incorporating spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into your lasagna. Just be sure to sauté any vegetables you add to release excess moisture before layering them in.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the lasagna a day in advance. Simply assemble the lasagna, cover it with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove the cover and bake according to the instructions, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to account for the chilled ingredients.
Freezing: If you want to make this lasagna ahead of time, you can freeze it before baking. Assemble the lasagna, then cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then follow the baking instructions.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Broccoli: Blanching the broccoli for too long can result in mushy, overcooked vegetables. Keep a close eye on the blanching process, ensuring the broccoli stays bright green and crisp-tender.
Not Draining the Noodles Properly: If the lasagna noodles are too wet when layering, the lasagna can become soggy. Be sure to drain the noodles well and spread them out on a clean kitchen towel to remove excess water.
Skipping the Resting Time: After baking, let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before cutting. If you skip this step, the lasagna will likely fall apart when you slice it, losing the beautiful layers.
Not Using Enough Cheese: For the creamiest, most decadent lasagna, don’t skimp on the cheese. Be generous with your cheese layers for that gooey, melty texture.

What to Serve With Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Lasagna?

Pairing the right sides with your lasagna can elevate the meal and provide a balance of flavors. Here are eight great options to serve alongside this delicious lasagna:

1. Garlic Bread

Classic garlic bread is a perfect side to scoop up the cheesy goodness and add a crunchy, flavorful contrast to the creamy lasagna.

2. Caesar Salad

A crisp, fresh Caesar salad with a tangy dressing offers a great balance to the rich lasagna, cutting through the heaviness of the cheese.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Oven-roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers provide a sweet, savory contrast to the richness of the lasagna.

4. Green Bean Almondine

Tender green beans sautéed with butter, almonds, and a hint of lemon can brighten up the meal and add some texture.

5. Crisp Arugula Salad

An arugula salad with a simple lemon vinaigrette can add a peppery bite to balance out the creamy and cheesy lasagna.

6. Sautéed Spinach with Garlic

Quickly sautéed spinach with garlic and a touch of olive oil provides a light and nutritious complement to the rich main dish.

7. Tomato Basil Soup

A comforting bowl of tomato basil soup makes for a cozy starter that pairs beautifully with the cheesy lasagna, creating a perfect Italian-inspired meal.

8. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes with roasted garlic are a fantastic side dish for lasagna, giving you another layer of savory goodness to enjoy.

These sides complement the lasagna’s flavors and textures, ensuring your meal feels complete and satisfying!

Storage Instructions (and Reheating if Applicable)

Storing Leftovers: If you have leftover Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Lasagna, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Make sure the lasagna has cooled down completely before refrigerating it to prevent excess moisture buildup.
Freezing: To freeze the lasagna, let it cool completely after baking. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the lasagna overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating Instructions:

From the Refrigerator: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and heat for 20-25 minutes until warmed through. For a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of reheating.
From the Freezer: To reheat frozen lasagna, first thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Then, bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-60 minutes, or until it’s completely heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick meal.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content per serving of Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Lasagna (based on 8 servings):

Calories: 450-500 kcal
Protein: 30-35 grams
Fat: 25-30 grams
Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams
Fiber: 3-4 grams
Sugar: 5-6 grams
Sodium: 600-750 mg
Cholesterol: 85-95 mg

Keep in mind that the exact nutritional values may vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option. Just shred the chicken and add it to your lasagna for a quick and easy addition!

2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free lasagna noodles as a substitute for regular noodles. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

3. Can I use other vegetables besides broccoli?

Yes! Feel free to use spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers in place of broccoli. Just make sure to cook or blanch them to remove excess moisture before layering them in the lasagna.

4. Can I prepare the lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day ahead and store it in the fridge until ready to bake. It’ll save you time on the day you plan to serve it.

5. How do I prevent the lasagna from being too watery?

To prevent excess moisture, make sure to drain the cooked noodles well, blanch the broccoli just enough to soften it without overcooking, and use a thicker cheese sauce. Also, avoid using watery vegetables.

6. Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even a lower-fat milk option. However, keep in mind that this may alter the richness of the sauce.

7. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture or sprinkle them between the layers. You can also use spicy chicken sausage or hot sauce to spice things up.

8. Can I freeze the lasagna?

Yes, lasagna freezes well! Assemble and bake the lasagna, then cool it completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake until heated through.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Lasagna is a comforting and flavorful twist on the classic lasagna. With its rich layers of cheese, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, it’s the perfect dish for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep. The best part is that you can make it ahead of time, store it, and even freeze it for later. Whether you’re a lasagna aficionado or trying a new variation, this dish is bound to be a crowd-pleaser.