Image Source from fdmailhiot

Cheesy Chicken, Spinach, and Artichoke Lasagna: Comfort Food Redefined

Lasagna is a classic dish that has graced tables for centuries, celebrated for its comforting layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese. While traditional recipes often feature rich meat sauces, modern twists have emerged to cater to varying palates. One such delightful variation is the Cheesy Chicken, Spinach, and Artichoke Lasagna. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a fantastic blend of flavours and textures that will satisfy even the most discerning of diners.

A Perfect Balance of Flavours

The combination of tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and creamy artichokes creates a harmonious balance that is both satisfying and indulgent. The rich layers of cheese, from mozzarella to ricotta, add a delightful creaminess that ties the dish together, making each bite an experience to savour.

Ingredients

To create this culinary masterpiece, here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken Filling:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 can (400g) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped (or you can use frozen spinach, just ensure it’s properly thawed and drained)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the White Sauce:

• 50g butter
• 50g plain flour
• 500ml milk
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

• 9-12 lasagna sheets (fresh or dried)
• Additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for topping

Method

1. Prepare the White Sauce:
   In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, cooking for a minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens and bubbles gently. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

2. Create the Filling:
   In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, artichoke hearts, spinach, ricotta, half of the mozzarella, half of the Parmesan, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

3. Assemble the Lasagna:
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Spread a thin layer of white sauce at the bottom of a large baking dish. Layer with lasagna sheets, followed by a generous portion of the chicken filling, then another layer of white sauce. Repeat the process until you run out of filling, finishing with a layer of lasagna sheets topped with remaining white sauce.

4. Add Cheese:
   Sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese to ensure a wonderfully cheesy crust.

5. Bake:
   Cover the dish with aluminium foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

6. Serve:
   Allow the lasagna to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve it warm, paired with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

Cheesy Chicken, Spinach, and Artichoke Lasagna offers a delightful twist on the traditional favourite, introducing fresh ingredients and appealing flavours. Whether for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or a special occasion, this dish promises to be a hit. It encapsulates the essence of comfort food while being a tad more adventurous—making it a great addition to any culinary repertoire. Embrace the richness and warmth of this lasagna, and watch as it becomes a new favourite at your dining table.