Name: Five-Layered Parmesan Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 10
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: For Chicken:; 32 oz chicken breasts; ¾ cup seasoned breadcrumbs; ¼ cup parmesan cheese; 2 large eggs; Olive oil spray; For Lasagna:; 15 oz ricotta cheese; ½ cup pecorino romano; ¼ cup basil; 4¾ cups marinara sauce; 9 oz lasagna noodles; 3 cups baby spinach; 3 cups mozzarella cheese

This five-layered parmesan chicken lasagna is an exquisite blend of savory chicken breasts, creamy ricotta cheese, and a rich marinara sauce. Perfect for a hearty family dinner, it brings together classic Italian flavors in a comforting, multi-layered dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Photos of Five-Layered Parmesan Chicken Lasagna Recipe

When preparing this recipe, you might find that pecorino romano cheese and baby spinach are not always common pantry items. Ensure to check the cheese section and fresh produce aisle at the supermarket. Additionally, lasagna noodles and mozzarella cheese are essential for layering, so make sure you don't overlook them.

Ingredients for Five-Layered Parmesan Chicken Lasagna

Chicken breasts: The base protein for this recipe, providing a hearty and flavorful component.

Seasoned breadcrumbs: Adds a crunchy coating to the chicken when baked.

Parmesan cheese: Used in both the breadcrumb mixture and the ricotta blend for a nutty, salty taste.

Eggs: Help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken for an even coating.

Olive oil spray: Used to lightly coat the baking sheet and chicken to promote even baking.

Ricotta cheese: A creamy cheese used in the filling layers, providing richness.

Pecorino romano: A sharp, salty cheese that complements the ricotta mixture.

Basil: Fresh herb that adds a fragrant touch to the cheese mixture.

Marinara sauce: The tomato-based sauce used to bring moisture and flavor to each layer.

Lasagna noodles: Pasta sheets that form the structure of the lasagna.

Baby spinach: Adds a healthy, green component to the layers.

Mozzarella cheese: Melts to a gooey, golden finish on top of the lasagna.

One reader, Boonie Comer says:

This five-layered parmesan chicken lasagna is a game-changer! The flavors blend perfectly, and the layers are so satisfying. My family couldn't get enough of it. Definitely adding this to our regular dinner rotation!

Boonie Comer

Techniques Required for Making Five-Layered Parmesan Chicken Lasagna

How to bread chicken: Dip the chicken into beaten eggs, then coat it with a mixture of breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese. How to bake chicken: Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake in the oven at 425 degrees F for 25 minutes. How to mix ricotta filling: Combine ricotta cheese, pecorino romano, and basil in a bowl until well blended. How to layer lasagna: Arrange lasagna noodles, marinara sauce, chicken, ricotta mixture, mozzarella cheese, and spinach in a specific order in a baking dish. How to bake lasagna: Cover the layered lasagna with foil and bake at 400 degrees F for 50 minutes, then uncover, add mozzarella, and bake until melted.

How To Make Five-Layered Parmesan Chicken Lasagna Recipe

With deep layers of lasagna and thick cutlets of chicken parmesan filled with some cheesy sauce, this lasagna recipe will surely delight the crowd!

Preparation: 35 minutes

Cooking: 55 minutes

Total: 1 hour 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Chicken:

32ozchicken breasts,boneless, skinless, sliced in half lengthwise to make 8
¾cupseasoned breadcrumbs,used whole wheat, you can also use GF crumbs
¼cupparmesan cheese,grated
2large eggs,beaten
Olive oil spray

For Lasagna:

15ozricotta cheese,container part-skim, like Polly-o almost 2 cups
½cupPecorino Romano,or Parmesan cheese, grated
¼cupbasil,fresh chopped, plus more for garnish
4¾cupsmarinara sauce,homemade or jarred from about 2
9ozlasagna noodles,box no-boil, used Barilla
3cupsbaby spinach
3cupsmozzarella cheese,part-skim shredded

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
Spray a large baking sheet lightly with spray.
Combine breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese in a bowl. Beat the egg in another bowl.
Dip the chicken into the eggs, then into the breadcrumb mixture. Discard the remaining crumbs.
Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet, lightly spray the top with oil and bake in the oven for 25 minutes, do not turn.
When done, remove from the oven and reduce oven temp to 400 degrees F.
Meanwhile, combine the ricotta, parmesan cheese, and basil in a medium bowl.
In a 9 by 13 by 3-inch Pyrex Deep baking dish, ladle 3/4 cup of marinara on the bottom of the dish.
Arrange 3 lasagna noodles across the dish (they will expand as they cook), top with 3/4 cup sauce, 4 pieces of chicken, 1/4 of the ricotta cheese mixture, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, 3/4 cup spinach.
Repeat the 2nd layer, skipping the chicken.
Repeat the 3rd layer with the chicken, and the 4th layer without the chicken.
For the 5th layer, spread the last 3 sheets of pasta noodles with the remaining 1 1/2 cups of marinara sauce on top.
Cover with foil and bake in a 400 degrees F preheated oven in the center rack 50 minutes.
Uncover, add the remaining cup of mozzarella and bake until melted, 5 minutes.
Remove from oven and let it rest 15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 761.07kcal
Fat: 44.00g
Saturated Fat: 21.13g
Trans Fat: 0.11g
Monounsaturated Fat: 15.53g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.23g
Carbohydrates: 38.10g
Fiber: 3.51g
Sugar: 9.11g
Protein: 51.51g
Cholesterol: 198.23mg
Sodium: 1395.07mg
Calcium: 724.25mg
Potassium: 816.95mg
Iron: 3.07mg
Vitamin A: 313.46µg
Vitamin C: 3.46mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting This Lasagna Recipe

When layering your lasagna, ensure that the noodles are slightly overlapping to prevent gaps. This helps the sauce and cheese to meld together, creating a cohesive and delicious dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Lasagna Recipe

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop basil, grate parmesan cheese, and measure out breadcrumbs and ricotta cheese ahead of time.

Use pre-cooked chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken breasts.

No-boil lasagna noodles: Opt for no-boil lasagna noodles to skip the boiling step.

Pre-shredded cheese: Use pre-shredded mozzarella cheese to cut down on prep time.

Ready-made marinara sauce: Choose a high-quality, store-bought marinara sauce to save time on making your own.

Substitute Ingredients For Five-Layered Parmesan Chicken Lasagna Recipe

chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts have a similar texture and flavor profile to chicken, making them a suitable alternative.
seasoned breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a similar crunch and can be seasoned to taste.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with grana padano: Grana Padano has a similar texture and flavor to Parmesan, making it a good substitute.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water) can be used as a binder in place of regular eggs.
olive oil spray - Substitute with canola oil spray: Canola oil spray has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties.
ricotta cheese - Substitute with cottage cheese: Cottage cheese has a similar texture and can be blended for a smoother consistency.
pecorino romano - Substitute with asiago cheese: Asiago cheese has a similar sharp and tangy flavor profile.
basil - Substitute with oregano: Oregano provides a similar aromatic and slightly peppery flavor.
marinara sauce - Substitute with tomato basil sauce: Tomato basil sauce has a similar base and flavor profile to marinara.
lasagna noodles - Substitute with zucchini slices: Zucchini slices can be used as a low-carb alternative to lasagna noodles.
baby spinach - Substitute with kale: Kale provides a similar texture and nutritional profile.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone melts similarly and has a comparable mild flavor.

Best Way to Present This Delectable Lasagna

Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the lasagna into elegant, smaller squares to ensure each piece holds its shape and layers. This will make it easier to plate and more visually appealing.
Use a white plate: A pristine white plate will highlight the vibrant colors of the marinara sauce, spinach, and cheese, making the dish look more appetizing.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprig of fresh basil or a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley on top of each piece to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Drizzle with extra sauce: Lightly drizzle some warm marinara sauce around the lasagna on the plate to create a beautiful contrast and enhance the flavor.
Add a side salad: Serve with a small side salad of baby spinach, arugula, and cherry tomatoes, lightly dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. This adds a fresh, crisp element to the dish.
Use a microplane for cheese: Just before serving, use a microplane to grate some fresh parmesan cheese over the top of the lasagna. This adds a delicate, snowy finish.
Layer for height: When plating, slightly overlap the lasagna pieces to create height and dimension on the plate. This gives a more sophisticated and dynamic presentation.
Clean the plate edges: Ensure the edges of the plate are clean and free of any stray sauce or cheese to maintain a professional and polished look.
Use a sauce brush: For an artistic touch, use a sauce brush to create a swipe of marinara sauce on the plate before placing the lasagna. This adds a modern and stylish element.
Serve with a wine pairing: Suggest a glass of light red wine such as a Pinot Noir or Chianti to complement the rich flavors of the parmesan chicken lasagna.

Essential Tools for Making Parmesan Chicken Lasagna

Oven: Used for baking the chicken and lasagna layers at specified temperatures.
Large baking sheet: Needed to bake the breaded chicken breasts.
Olive oil spray: Used to lightly coat the baking sheet and the top of the breaded chicken.
Mixing bowls: Required for combining breadcrumbs and parmesan, beating the eggs, and mixing the ricotta, parmesan, and basil.
Whisk: Used to beat the eggs.
Measuring cups: Essential for measuring ingredients like breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and marinara sauce.
9 by 13 by 3-inch Pyrex deep baking dish: The dish in which the lasagna will be assembled and baked.
Ladle: Used to spread marinara sauce evenly in the baking dish.
Foil: Needed to cover the lasagna while baking to ensure even cooking.
Knife: Used for cutting the chicken breasts if needed.
Cutting board: Provides a surface for cutting the chicken breasts.
Spatula: Useful for spreading the ricotta cheese mixture and handling the lasagna noodles.
Tongs: Handy for placing and adjusting the lasagna noodles and chicken pieces.
Cooling rack: Used to let the lasagna rest after baking.
Timer: Essential for keeping track of baking times for both the chicken and the lasagna.

Storing and Freezing Five-Layered Parmesan Chicken Lasagna

Let the lasagna cool completely before storing or freezing. This will take about 1-2 hours at room temperature.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the lasagna tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the lasagna, follow these steps:
1. Wrap the cooled lasagna tightly in plastic wrap, making sure to remove any air pockets.
2. Cover the wrapped lasagna with a layer of aluminum foil for extra protection against freezer burn.
3. Label the lasagna with the date and contents, so you can easily identify it later.
4. Place the wrapped lasagna in the freezer, where it will keep well for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the refrigerated lasagna, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the lasagna with foil and bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until heated through.
To reheat the frozen lasagna, you have two options:
1. Thaw the lasagna overnight in the refrigerator, then follow the reheating instructions for refrigerated lasagna.
2. Bake the frozen lasagna directly from the freezer. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), keep the lasagna covered with foil, and bake for about 1 hour. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the lasagna is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
If you have any leftover lasagna, you can store individual portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator or freezer for quick and easy meals later on.

How To Reheat Lasagna Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover lasagna in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. This will help prevent the top layer from drying out and burning while the inside heats through. Bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until the lasagna is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
If you prefer a crispier top layer, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking. This will allow the mozzarella cheese to brown and create a deliciously crunchy texture that complements the soft and tender layers beneath.
For a quicker reheating method, you can use the microwave. Place a single serving of lasagna on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until it's heated through. Be sure to check the lasagna every 30 seconds to avoid overheating and drying out the pasta and chicken.
If you have a large portion of leftover lasagna, you can also reheat it in a skillet on the stovetop. Place a single layer of lasagna in a large skillet over medium heat and cover it with a lid. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the bottom is crispy and the inside is heated through. This method works best for smaller portions and allows you to enjoy a crispy bottom layer.
To keep the lasagna moist and prevent it from drying out during reheating, you can add a splash of water or marinara sauce to the dish before covering it with foil. This will create steam and help keep the pasta and chicken tender and flavorful.
If you want to freeze your leftover lasagna for later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. When you're ready to reheat it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then follow one of the above methods for reheating. This will ensure that your lasagna tastes just as delicious as the day you made it!

Interesting Fact About Five-Layered Parmesan Chicken Lasagna

A unique aspect of this five-layered parmesan chicken lasagna recipe is the use of baby spinach in the layers. This not only adds a nutritious element but also brings a fresh, vibrant flavor to the dish, balancing the richness of the cheeses and marinara sauce.

Is Making Parmesan Chicken Lasagna at Home Cost-Effective?

When evaluating the cost-effectiveness of this five-layered parmesan chicken lasagna, several factors come into play. The main ingredients like chicken breasts, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and marinara sauce are relatively affordable and can be found in most grocery stores. For a household of four, the approximate cost would be around $25-$30 USD. Given the rich flavors and the hearty nature of this dish, it offers great value for money. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Parmesan Chicken Lasagna Healthy or Unhealthy?

This five-layered parmesan chicken lasagna recipe is a delicious and comforting dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to several factors:

The use of breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese for the chicken coating adds extra calories and fat.
The lasagna is heavy on cheese, including ricotta, pecorino romano, and mozzarella, which contributes to a higher saturated fat content.
The recipe calls for a significant amount of marinara sauce, which may contain added sugars and sodium.

However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients, such as chicken breast (a lean protein source), spinach (a nutrient-dense vegetable), and whole-grain lasagna noodles (if used).

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Use whole-wheat breadcrumbs or replace them with ground nuts like almonds or walnuts for a healthier coating.
Reduce the amount of cheese used in the recipe, or opt for low-fat versions of ricotta and mozzarella.
Choose a low-sodium, sugar-free marinara sauce, or make your own using fresh tomatoes and herbs.
Increase the amount of spinach or add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers to boost the nutrient content.
Use whole-grain or vegetable-based lasagna noodles for added fiber and nutrients.
Serve the lasagna with a side salad to balance out the meal and add more vegetables.

Editor's Opinion on This Parmesan Chicken Lasagna Recipe

This five-layered parmesan chicken lasagna recipe is a delightful fusion of classic lasagna and chicken parmesan. The layering of ricotta, mozzarella, and marinara sauce with seasoned chicken creates a rich, multi-dimensional flavor profile. The use of baby spinach adds a fresh, nutritious element. Baking the chicken separately ensures it remains crispy, adding a pleasing texture contrast. The final touch of melted mozzarella on top provides a gooey, cheesy finish. Overall, this dish is a hearty, comforting meal perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.

Enhance Your Five-Layered Parmesan Chicken Lasagna Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Vegetables: Imagine a medley of carrots, broccoli, and zucchini roasted to perfection, kissed with a hint of garlic and a sprinkle of parmesan. This vibrant side dish will add a burst of color and flavor to your five-layered parmesan chicken lasagna, creating a harmonious balance of textures and tastes.

Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad infused with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs. Toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions for a delightful crunch. This light and tangy side dish will cleanse your palate and complement the richness of the lasagna.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: A velvety tomato soup with a hint of basil that will warm your soul. The creamy texture and robust flavors will pair beautifully with the layers of marinara and cheese in your lasagna, making each bite a comforting experience.

Crispy Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with a creamy Caesar dressing, crunchy croutons, and a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese. This classic salad offers a refreshing crunch and a tangy bite that will enhance the savory notes of your lasagna.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Tender Brussels sprouts caramelized with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. The rich, earthy flavors of the sprouts will provide a delightful contrast to the cheesy, saucy layers of your lasagna, creating a symphony of tastes on your plate.

Similar Recipes to Five-Layered Parmesan Chicken Lasagna

Chicken Alfredo Lasagna: Imagine layers of creamy alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and gooey mozzarella cheese. This dish is a rich and decadent twist on the classic lasagna, perfect for a comforting dinner.

Spinach and Mushroom Lasagna: For a vegetarian delight, try this lasagna packed with earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach. The layers of ricotta cheese and marinara sauce make it a hearty and satisfying meal.

Eggplant Parmesan Lasagna: Swap out the pasta for slices of roasted eggplant in this low-carb lasagna. Paired with marinara sauce, mozzarella, and parmesan, it's a delicious and healthy alternative.

Butternut Squash and Sage Lasagna: A fall favorite, this lasagna features sweet butternut squash and fragrant sage. Combined with creamy ricotta and mozzarella, it's a comforting and unique dish.

Seafood Lasagna: Dive into layers of succulent shrimp, scallops, and crab meat in a creamy white sauce. This luxurious lasagna is perfect for a special occasion or a seafood lover's dream.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Parmesan Chicken Lasagna

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start your meal. Imagine portobello mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushrooms are then baked to perfection, creating a creamy and flavorful bite. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying crunch, making each bite a textural delight. These mushrooms are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a perfect appetizer for any gathering.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that never fails to impress. Picture slices of toasted baguette topped with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt elevate the flavors, making each bite burst with freshness. This appetizer is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser, perfect for setting the tone for a delicious meal.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Indulge in a classic Tiramisu that layers espresso-soaked ladyfingers with a rich mascarpone cream. The cocoa powder dusting on top adds a touch of bitterness that perfectly balances the sweetness. This dessert is best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. For an extra twist, consider adding a hint of coffee liqueur to the espresso for a deeper, more complex flavor profile.

Panna Cotta: Experience the silky smoothness of Panna Cotta, a creamy Italian dessert that melts in your mouth. This vanilla-infused treat is often served with a fruit coulis or a caramel sauce to add a burst of flavor. The simplicity of Panna Cotta allows you to get creative with the presentation, perhaps garnishing with fresh berries or a sprig of mint. It's a light yet satisfying end to any meal.

Why trust this Five-Layered Parmesan Chicken Lasagna Recipe:

This five-layered parmesan chicken lasagna recipe combines the richness of ricotta cheese and mozzarella with the savory goodness of seasoned breadcrumbs and marinara sauce. The chicken breasts are baked to perfection, ensuring a tender and flavorful bite in every layer. With the addition of fresh basil and baby spinach, this dish not only tastes amazing but also offers a delightful texture and aroma. Trust this recipe for a hearty, satisfying meal that brings together classic Italian flavors in a unique and delicious way.

Want to share your experience making this Five-Layered Parmesan Chicken Lasagna or discuss variations on the recipe? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. You can use a meat thermometer to check. Also, the chicken should be golden brown and no longer pink inside.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought marinara sauce works just fine for this recipe. Just make sure to choose a brand you like, as it will impact the overall flavor.

Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold.

Can I substitute the baby spinach with another vegetable?

Sure thing! You can use other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard. Just make sure to chop them finely so they cook evenly. You could also add layers of sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a different twist.

What can I do if I don't have ricotta cheese?

If you don't have ricotta cheese, you can substitute it with cottage cheese. Just blend it a bit to get a smoother texture. Another option is to use a mixture of cream cheese and plain Greek yogurt.