Lasagna is one of those comfort foods that never goes out of style, and when you swap the traditional tomato-based sauce for a silky, cheesy white sauce, the whole dish takes on a lighter yet indulgent twist. This Easy Chicken Lasagna with Creamy White Sauce is everything you want in a family meal: rich, creamy layers of tender pasta, juicy shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and a luscious white sauce that ties it all together. The result is hearty enough to satisfy everyone at the table but refined enough to serve for special occasions.

This version keeps things approachable with simple pantry ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, so you don’t need to be a pro chef to pull it off. It’s the kind of recipe that brings the family together around the table, with everyone asking for seconds. If you’ve been searching for a lasagna that feels both classic and refreshing, this creamy chicken version will win your heart.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 9–12 lasagna noodles (regular or oven-ready)

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie works great)

• 3 tablespoons olive oil or butter

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced

• 1 medium zucchini, diced

• 2 cups fresh spinach (optional, for added greens)

• 4 tablespoons flour

• 4 cups milk (warm)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the chicken. Use pre-cooked chicken or poach 2–3 chicken breasts until tender. Shred into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

2. Cook the vegetables. In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant. Stir in mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach (if using), and sauté until softened. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

3. Make the creamy white sauce. In a saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in warm milk until smooth. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.

4. Assemble the lasagna. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of white sauce on the bottom. Layer lasagna noodles, followed by chicken, sautéed vegetables, a drizzle of sauce, and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Repeat layers until ingredients are used up, finishing with sauce and cheese on top.

5. Bake. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, until golden and bubbly.

6. Serve. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley and enjoy!

Nutrients (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 420

• Protein: 28g

• Carbohydrates: 30g

• Fat: 20g

• Fiber: 3g

• Calcium: 25% DV

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s a reason this easy chicken lasagna with creamy white sauce quickly becomes a family favorite once you try it. It has all the comfort of classic lasagna—tender pasta sheets, plenty of cheese, and satisfying layers—yet it offers something a little different by using a silky white sauce instead of the heavier tomato-based variety. The result is a dish that feels luxurious but not overly rich, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. Each bite brings together the heartiness of juicy shredded chicken, the freshness of sautéed vegetables, and the creaminess of mozzarella and Parmesan, all tied together with a velvety béchamel-style sauce. What makes this recipe extra lovable is how easy it is to adapt: whether you want to sneak in more vegetables for the kids, prepare it ahead of time for busy days, or switch up the cheeses for fun, it’s flexible enough to fit your needs without losing its irresistible appeal.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Lasagna itself has a long and fascinating history. The dish can be traced back to Italy, where traditional lasagna was prepared with layers of pasta sheets, a meaty ragu, béchamel sauce, and cheese. Over time, as the recipe traveled and evolved, cooks from different cultures began adding their own twists, swapping proteins, sauces, and vegetables depending on what was available. This creamy chicken version takes inspiration from the Italian “lasagna bianca,” or white lasagna, which replaces the tomato-based sauce with béchamel and often includes chicken, mushrooms, or spinach. While it remains rooted in classic Italian comfort food, it also feels modern, lighter, and suited to today’s tastes. It’s essentially a bridge between the timeless traditions of Italian kitchens and the creative flexibility of home cooks around the world who crave something both nostalgic and refreshing.

Ingredient Spotlight

Every component of this lasagna has a role to play in making it delicious. The chicken provides a lean yet hearty base of protein, giving the lasagna substance without overwhelming it. The white sauce, a smooth béchamel enriched with cream, serves as the creamy backbone, creating those luscious, velvety layers that set this dish apart from the traditional red-sauce lasagna. Mozzarella and Parmesan come together to add that gooey, melty texture and a depth of flavor that balances creaminess with just the right amount of sharpness. Vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach brighten the lasagna with freshness, color, and nutrients while preventing it from feeling too heavy. And finally, the lasagna noodles give the dish structure, allowing all those beautiful layers to hold together so you get the perfect forkful every time. When combined, these ingredients create a balance of indulgence and wholesomeness that’s hard to resist.

Storage and Reheating Tips

One of the great things about this recipe is that it stores and reheats beautifully, which means it’s not just a one-night wonder but a dish that keeps on giving. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days, and they taste just as comforting the next day, sometimes even better as the flavors meld together. When reheating, it’s best to avoid the microwave if you want to preserve that golden top layer of cheese. Instead, gently warm slices in the oven at 170°C (325°F) for about 15 to 20 minutes until heated through. This keeps the texture intact and ensures the sauce doesn’t separate. For long-term storage, this lasagna freezes exceptionally well. You can either freeze the whole assembled lasagna before baking or store baked portions for quick meals later. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual, or cook straight from frozen with extra time added to the oven. It’s a lifesaver for busy days or when you want a ready-made meal without resorting to takeout.

Common Variations to Try

One of the joys of lasagna is its versatility, and this creamy chicken version is no exception. If you love Alfredo, you can easily transform this into a chicken Alfredo lasagna by boosting the Parmesan in the sauce and adding a touch of nutmeg for that signature flavor. For a vegetarian-friendly option, swap out the chicken for artichokes and extra spinach, which creates a bright and hearty veggie-forward dish. If your household loves spice, don’t be afraid to add red chili flakes or even sliced jalapeños to give it a subtle kick. Cheese enthusiasts might want to go all out with a “cheese lover’s lasagna,” layering in ricotta or cream cheese alongside the mozzarella for extra richness. And for those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free lasagna noodles and a cornstarch-thickened sauce make this dish accessible without sacrificing flavor or texture. Each variation keeps the spirit of the original but allows you to tailor it to your preferences, proving that lasagna truly is a canvas for creativity.

Pairing Recommendations

To round out this dish, pairing it with the right sides and drinks makes the experience even better. A crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness of the lasagna. Garlic bread or crusty baguette slices are classic accompaniments that let you soak up every last bit of sauce. Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts, add another layer of nutrition and texture to the meal. For drinks, a chilled glass of Chardonnay complements the creaminess beautifully, while a light Pinot Noir offers a fruity balance that pairs well with both chicken and cheese. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with lemon or iced herbal tea works wonderfully to cleanse the palate between bites.

Health Benefits

Although lasagna often gets labeled as indulgent, this version shows how comfort food can also deliver nutritional value. The chicken provides lean, high-quality protein that keeps you satisfied and energized. Vegetables like spinach, zucchini, and mushrooms bring a boost of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which support overall health while adding freshness and balance. The dairy in the white sauce and cheese contributes calcium for strong bones and teeth, along with healthy fats that keep the dish satisfying. When enjoyed in moderation and paired with a salad or vegetables, this lasagna offers a comforting meal that nourishes both body and soul, proving that healthy eating doesn’t have to mean giving up foods you love.

Conclusion

In the end, this easy chicken lasagna with creamy white sauce is much more than just another casserole—it’s a dish that combines comfort, versatility, and a touch of elegance in one bite. With its luscious layers of pasta, chicken, vegetables, and rich white sauce, it satisfies cravings for something cozy while still feeling fresh and balanced. It’s simple enough to prepare on a weeknight but impressive enough to serve at gatherings, making it one of those recipes you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. Whether you’re looking for a new family favorite, a crowd-pleaser for entertaining, or just a personal indulgence on a chilly evening, this lasagna delivers on all fronts. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a keeper in any kitchen.