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To truly appreciate the magic of creamy pesto chicken lasagna, it’s essential to understand the key ingredients that come together to create this delicious dish. Each component contributes its own distinct flavor and nutritional benefits, making them vital to the overall success of the lasagna.

Creamy Pesto Chicken Lasagna

Elevate your dinner game with this creamy pesto chicken lasagna recipe, a delicious twist on the classic Italian favorite. This dish combines layers of tender chicken, vibrant pesto, and a decadent cream sauce for a comforting meal everyone will love. Perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, it's packed with flavor and can be easily adapted to suit different tastes. Discover the joy of cooking a dish that is as delightful to make as it is to share with loved ones.

Ingredients
  

9 lasagna noodles

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

1 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

2 cups heavy cream

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot and ready for baking.

    Cook the Lasagna Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, carefully add the lasagna noodles and cook them according to the package directions until they are al dente. After cooking, drain the noodles and set them aside on a clean towel or non-stick surface to prevent sticking.

      Prepare the Cream Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and smooth.

        Layer the Ingredients:

          - Begin by spreading a thin layer of pesto sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.

            - Lay 3 lasagna noodles on top of the pesto sauce.

              - Evenly spread half of the ricotta cheese over the noodles, ensuring a consistent layer.

                - Add half of the shredded chicken, followed by half of the cream mixture, and then sprinkle a third of the mozzarella cheese on top.

                  - Repeat the layering process: spread more pesto sauce, place another layer of 3 lasagna noodles, then add the remaining ricotta, the rest of the chicken, the remaining cream mixture, and another third of the mozzarella cheese.

                    Final Layer: For the top layer, place the last 3 lasagna noodles carefully on top. Spread the remaining pesto sauce evenly across these noodles. Finally, generously sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the entire top layer.

                      Bake the Lasagna: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep moisture in (for easier removal, lightly spray the foil with cooking spray before placing it on the dish). Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and has turned a beautiful golden color.

                        Let it Rest: Once the lasagna is baked, carefully remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for 10 minutes. This helps the layers to set, making it easier to slice.

                          Serve: If desired, garnish your delicious creamy pesto chicken lasagna with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy every bite of this comforting dish!

                            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour | 6 servings