Name: Marry Me Chicken Lasagna: The Ultimate Comfort Dish
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 9 pieces Lasagna Noodles (Cooked according to package instructions); 4 tablespoons Butter (Can substitute with olive oil); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced); 2 cups Milk (Any milk alternative works); 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream (Can replace half with additional milk); 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (Grated); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt; 1 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes; 2 cups Fresh Spinach; ½ cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes; 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Optional); 15 ounces Skim Ricotta Cheese (Can substitute with whole-milk ricotta); 2 cups Shredded Cooked Chicken Breast (Rotisserie chicken works well); 6 slices Bacon (Can replace with turkey bacon); 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Low-fat mozzarella can be used); ¼ cup Chopped Fresh Italian Parsley (Optional garnish)

There’s something magical about a hearty lasagna that brings smiles to the table, and my Marry Me Chicken Lasagna is no exception. Inspired by the beloved Marry Me Chicken dish, this recipe elevates comfort food to new heights with creamy layers of cheese, tender chicken, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes nestled between perfectly cooked noodles. It’s not just delicious but also make-ahead friendly, making it an ideal choice for those busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress your loved ones. Trust me, this cheesy masterpiece promises to be a crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds! Are you ready to create your own love-at-first-bite experience?

Why Is This Lasagna So Irresistible?

Indulgent Flavors: The Marry Me Chicken Lasagna combines savory chicken and rich cream, creating a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it in advance! Just refrigerate and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve, making meal planning a breeze.
Nutrient-Rich Goodness: Packed with fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, this lasagna not only tastes amazing but also offers a healthy twist.
Cheesy Layers: With creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, every bite is a delightful explosion of flavors that cheese lovers won’t forget.
Versatile Options: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition, enhancing both taste and healthiness!
Pair it with a refreshing salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal that your family will rave about! If you’re in the mood for more comfort food inspiration, check out my delicious Mexican Lasagna Twist or Buffalo Chicken Tacos.

Marry Me Chicken Lasagna Ingredients

For the Noodles

Lasagna Noodles – Use whole noodles, cooked according to package instructions for the best texture.

For the Sauce

Butter – Adds richness and flavor; substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic enhances flavor depth over powdered varieties.
Milk – Contributes creaminess; any milk alternative works for a lighter version.
Heavy Whipping Cream – Enriches the sauce; you can replace half with additional milk for a lighter touch.
Parmesan Cheese – Offers a nutty flavor; substitute with another hard cheese if needed.
Kosher Salt, Black Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes – Essential seasonings; adjust to suit your taste.
Fresh Spinach – Adds nutrition and color; kale can make a great substitution.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Provides a delightful tang; fresh tomatoes can be used in a pinch, though with less concentrated flavor.
Garlic Powder – Optional flavor enhancer; omit if you’re looking to avoid powdered ingredients.

For the Filling

Skim Ricotta Cheese – Ensures creaminess and adds structure; whole-milk ricotta can enhance richness.
Shredded Cooked Chicken Breast – The main protein; rotisserie chicken is perfect for convenience.
Bacon – Adds a savory, smoky element; you can omit or replace it with turkey bacon for a lighter dish.

For the Topping

Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Creates that gooey, cheesy layer; low-fat mozzarella is a great alternative.
Chopped Fresh Italian Parsley (optional) – A fresh garnish that adds color and a burst of flavor without overpowering the dish.

This Marry Me Chicken Lasagna comes together with these luxurious ingredients, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for your recipe! Enjoy the comfort and joy of homemade goodness today.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marry Me Chicken Lasagna

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and spray it generously with nonstick cooking spray. This will prevent sticking and help achieve that perfect golden-brown finish for your Marry Me Chicken Lasagna.

Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, whisk in 2 cups of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, followed by a pinch of kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the mixture bubbles, then add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cups of fresh spinach, and ½ cup of sun-dried tomatoes, stirring until everything is well combined and heated through.

Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine 15 ounces of skim ricotta cheese with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and a sprinkle of salt. Mix thoroughly until you have a creamy, well-blended mixture. This will serve as the delightful filling in your Marry Me Chicken Lasagna, adding a velvety texture to the layers.

Step 4: Layer the Lasagna
To assemble the lasagna, start by spooning 1 cup of your prepared sauce into the bottom of the greased baking pan. Place 3 cooked lasagna noodles side by side over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of shredded cooked chicken and crumbled bacon. Top it with about 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and repeat the layer two more times, finishing with a final layer of noodles and sauce.

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna
Cover the assembled Marry Me Chicken Lasagna with aluminum foil, ensuring it’s tight to keep moisture in. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are bubbling and the sauce is heated throughout. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese on top is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 6: Cool Before Serving
Once out of the oven, let the lasagna cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the layers to set, making serving easier and preventing a soupy mess. Garnish with chopped fresh Italian parsley if desired, and prepare to enjoy this comforting Marry Me Chicken Lasagna with your loved ones!

Expert Tips for Marry Me Chicken Lasagna

Make-ahead Advantage: Prepare your Marry Me Chicken Lasagna in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. This enhances the flavors and simplifies dinner on busy nights.
Perfect Layering: Ensure that each layer of noodles and fillings is evenly distributed to avoid uneven cooking. This guarantees that every bite is just as delightful as the last!
Bubbling Goodness: Always check that your sauce is bubbling and the cheese is nicely browned before removing the lasagna from the oven. This indicates optimal texture and flavor.
Cooling Time: Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes post-baking. This step allows the layers to firm up, making cutting and serving much easier.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh spinach and quality cheese to maximize flavor in your Marry Me Chicken Lasagna. Fresh ingredients lead to a more indulgent and vibrant dish!

How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chicken Lasagna

Refrigerator: Store any leftovers covered in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy the creamy flavors of your Marry Me Chicken Lasagna another day.

Make-Ahead: Prepare the lasagna in advance and refrigerate (covered) for up to 2 days before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before popping it in the oven for even cooking.

Freezer: While it’s best not to freeze the lasagna due to the heavy cream, if needed, you can freeze it unbaked for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking, discarding any excess liquid.

Reheating: To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through (about 25-30 minutes). Alternatively, microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

Make Ahead Options

This Marry Me Chicken Lasagna is perfect for busy weeknights, as you can easily prepare it in advance! You can assemble the entire lasagna up to 24 hours before cooking; just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. For the best results, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. The rich layers of creamy ricotta and savory chicken will still be just as delicious, even when made ahead! If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven until warmed through, preserving that delightful cheesy goodness.

What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Lasagna

As you prepare to indulge in this cheesy, creamy delight, let me guide you to some comforting sides that will elevate your meal even further.

Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery crunch of garlic bread is the perfect partner to soak up the delicious sauce of lasagna. An indulgent side that everyone loves!
Classic Caesar Salad: The lightness of crisp romaine topped with Parmesan and a tangy dressing balances the richness of the lasagna, refreshing every bite.
Roasted Vegetables: Try a medley of seasonal veggies, seasoned and roasted to perfection. Their earthy flavors and satisfying crunch create a fantastic contrast to the creamy layers.
Parmesan Zucchini Fries: These crispy, cheesy zucchini sticks are a delightful and healthier alternative to traditional fries, making for a great side that everyone can enjoy.
Italian Herb Rice: Fluffy rice with fresh herbs adds a light and aromatic touch that harmonizes beautifully with the rich Marry Me Chicken Lasagna.
Sangiovese Wine: A glass of this medium-bodied red wine enhances the entire meal, complementing the savory flavors of the lasagna and refreshing your palate between bites.

Serving these alongside your Marry Me Chicken Lasagna will transform your dinner into a truly memorable occasion, leaving everyone wanting more!

Marry Me Chicken Lasagna Variations

Feel free to get creative with these scrumptious twists on the classic Marry Me Chicken Lasagna!

Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk and cashew cream as a substitute for the heavy cream and ricotta for a creamy vegan version. You won’t miss the dairy at all!
Vegetarian Delight: Swap the chicken for a generous amount of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or even lentils. This variation boasts vibrant flavor and adds hearty plant-based nutrition that everyone will love.
Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes between the layers for an extra heat level that’ll awaken your taste buds. This adds a delightful zing that compliments the creaminess.
Herb Boost: Infuse fresh herbs like basil or thyme throughout the layers or sauce for a fragrant garden burst. This simple addition elevates the dish’s freshness and flavor.
Layer of Greens: Incorporate thinly sliced eggplant or bell peppers as one of the layers for added texture and color. Decking out your lasagna with veggies is an easy way to sneak in more nutrients!
Nutty Crunch: Top the lasagna with crushed nuts such as walnuts or almonds before baking. This creates a beautiful golden crust and gives a delightful crunch against the creamy layers.
Creative Cheese Mix: Try mixing different cheeses, like gouda or feta, along with mozzarella for layers of flavor. Each bite will surprise your palate with delightful cheesy nuances.

These variations are perfect for when you want to switch things up or cater to different dietary needs! If you’re hungry for more delicious recipes, don’t miss my Marry Chicken Pasta or the flavorful Tzatziki Chicken Veggie.

Marry Me Chicken Lasagna Recipe FAQs

What type of lasagna noodles should I use?
I recommend using whole lasagna noodles, cooked according to the package instructions for the best texture. If you’re short on time, no-boil noodles can also work well, just follow the instructions accordingly.

How should I store leftover Marry Me Chicken Lasagna?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave, and enjoy the creamy comfort all over again!

Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Lasagna?
While it’s best to avoid freezing due to the heavy cream, you can freeze it unbaked for up to 2 months. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, discarding any excess liquid before baking.

What if my lasagna is too watery after baking?
Make sure to let the lasagna rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This resting time allows the layers to set properly. If it’s still watery, ensure the sauce is well thickened during cooking, and avoid adding too many watery vegetables like fresh tomatoes.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This Marry Me Chicken Lasagna can be customized for dietary needs. You can use gluten-free noodles for a gluten-free version and substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives. Also, adjust the chicken or omit the bacon for a lighter dish or to accommodate dietary preferences.

What if I can’t find sun-dried tomatoes?
You can definitely use fresh tomatoes as a substitute, although the flavor will be less concentrated. For a similar tang, consider roasting fresh tomatoes or adding a hint of balsamic vinegar to your sauce for that acidic kick.