Crock Pot Chicken Lasagna

If you’re looking for an easy yet delicious dinner that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! This Crock Pot Chicken Lasagna is a comforting dish that combines creamy alfredo sauce with tender chicken and layers of cheesy goodness. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s always a hit at family gatherings or potlucks!

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few wholesome ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, you can create a satisfying meal that feels like a special treat. Trust me, once you try this Crock Pot Chicken Lasagna, it will quickly become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: Just layer the ingredients in your slow cooker, set it, and forget it!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this creamy and cheesy lasagna.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it earlier in the day and let the slow cooker do all the work while you relax.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of alfredo sauce, chicken, and cheese creates a mouthwatering dish everyone will crave.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this Crock Pot Chicken Lasagna is a breeze! You’ll find everything is simple and wholesome, making it easy to whip up this comforting meal.

• 3 cups rotisserie chicken (shredded)
• 2 (15 oz) jars alfredo sauce
• 1½ cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• 1 (12 oz) box oven-ready lasagna noodles
• 2½ cups baby spinach (coarsely chopped)
• 3 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• 1½ cups parmesan cheese (shredded)
• 1 (32 oz) container ricotta cheese
• 3 tsp garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1½ tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 eggs

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even cooked vegetables for a vegetarian option.
• Change the greens: Try using kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different flavor.
• Add extra veggies: Zucchini or bell peppers can be added for more nutrients and texture.
• Mix up the cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or cheddar for a unique twist.

How to Make Crock Pot Chicken Lasagna

Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker

Begin by spraying your 6-quart crock pot with nonstick cooking spray. This step ensures that your lasagna comes out cleanly without sticking, making serving much easier.

Step 2: Mix the Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, combine the mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, ricotta cheese, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and eggs. Mixing these ingredients well is important because it creates that creamy filling we all love in lasagna!

Step 3: Start Layering

Pour ¾ cup of alfredo sauce into the bottom of your crock pot and spread it evenly. Next, layer five lasagna noodles on top, cutting them as needed to cover all the sauce completely. This initial layer sets the foundation for all those delightful flavors to meld together as they cook.

Step 4: Add More Layers

Take half of the remaining alfredo sauce and pour it over the noodles. Spread half of your prepared cheese filling on top followed by 1½ cups of shredded chicken and 1 cup of chopped spinach. Repeat this layering process with another five noodles, half of your leftover sauce, more cheese filling, chicken, and spinach.

Step 5: Finish Up

For the final layer, add any remaining noodles on top. Cover them generously with the reserved alfredo sauce and sprinkle with ½ cup of chopped spinach. This ensures every bite is filled with flavor!

Step 6: Cook It Low and Slow

Cover your crock pot and cook on low for about four hours. The slow cooking allows all those wonderful flavors to blend together beautifully while keeping everything moist.

Step 7: Melt That Cheese

Once cooking time is up, turn off your slow cooker. Evenly spread 1½ cups of mozzarella cheese over your cooked lasagna. Cover again for about 10-15 minutes until that cheesy goodness melts into perfection!

And there you have it! A delicious Crock Pot Chicken Lasagna that’s not only simple to make but also sure to impress everyone at the dinner table. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Crock Pot Chicken Lasagna

Making a perfectly layered and delicious Crock Pot Chicken Lasagna is easier than you think! Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Use oven-ready noodles: These noodles don’t require boiling, making the prep process much quicker and easier. They also absorb moisture from the sauce while cooking, resulting in a tender lasagna.

• Layer thoughtfully: Be sure to spread your ingredients evenly in each layer. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully and ensure every bite is as delicious as the last.

• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing your lasagna to sit after cooking helps it set up. This makes serving neater and ensures that those cheesy layers hold their shape.

• Experiment with cheeses: While this recipe calls for mozzarella and parmesan, feel free to mix in other varieties like provolone or ricotta for added depth of flavor.

• Add veggies for extra nutrition: You can easily include more vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms into the layers. They’ll add color, flavor, and nutrients to your meal!

How to Serve Crock Pot Chicken Lasagna

Serving your Crock Pot Chicken Lasagna can be as delightful as making it! Presenting this comforting dish is all about enhancing its appeal with thoughtful garnishes and sides.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also brings a burst of fresh flavor that complements the creamy alfredo sauce perfectly.
• Grated parmesan cheese: A light dusting of grated parmesan on top just before serving enhances the cheesy goodness and gives it an elegant touch.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is a classic side that pairs wonderfully with lasagna. The buttery, garlicky flavors complement the creamy dish while providing a satisfying crunch.
• Caesar Salad: A refreshing Caesar salad adds a nice contrast to the richness of the lasagna. The crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing make for a delightful accompaniment.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a vibrant green color and extra nutrients without overwhelming the palate. It’s an easy side that balances out the heaviness of the lasagna.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots can add both texture and flavor to your meal. Their caramelized sweetness complements the savory notes of the lasagna beautifully.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions at your fingertips, you’re ready to impress family and friends with your delicious Crock Pot Chicken Lasagna!

Make Ahead and Storage

Crock Pot Chicken Lasagna is a fantastic choice for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals throughout the week. You can prepare it in advance and store it for later, ensuring you always have something hearty and satisfying on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the lasagna to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the lasagna cool down fully.
• Cut it into individual portions or keep it whole in a freezer-safe container.
• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or use a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, reheat in the microwave, covered, until warmed through (about 2-3 minutes).
• For frozen lasagna, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through (about 30-40 minutes).

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful recipe, you’re in the right place! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I make Crock Pot Chicken Lasagna without ricotta cheese?

Yes! You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or a plant-based alternative to suit your preferences while maintaining that creamy texture.

How do I ensure my Crock Pot Chicken Lasagna is not watery?

Make sure to drain excess liquid from your cooked chicken. Using oven-ready noodles also helps absorb moisture during cooking.

Can I use different types of cheese in my Crock Pot Chicken Lasagna?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match cheeses like provolone or cheddar to customize the flavor profile of your lasagna.

Is there a way to make Crock Pot Chicken Lasagna healthier?

You can reduce calories by using low-fat cheeses and whole grain noodles or add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Crock Pot Chicken Lasagna becomes a beloved dish in your household! Its creamy layers and rich flavors come together effortlessly, making dinner time a breeze. Enjoy creating this comforting meal, and don’t hesitate to share your experience – I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!