I absolutely love sharing this Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna Alfredo Recipe with friends and family because it combines creamy, cheesy alfredo sauce with fresh broccoli and tender chicken in such a comforting way. Every bite bursts with flavor and a perfect balance of textures, all wrapped up in layers of no-boil noodles that make assembly a breeze. This dish feels fancy enough for special occasions but is surprisingly simple to make any night of the week when you want something hearty and satisfying.
Why You'll Love This Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna Alfredo Recipe
What really stands out to me about this recipe is the rich, velvety alfredo sauce that coats every layer of lasagna so beautifully. The blend of fresh broccoli pesto alongside the tender chicken and gooey mozzarella creates a harmony of flavors that feels both indulgent and fresh. It’s not your typical tomato-based lasagna, which makes it delightfully unique and perfect when you’re craving something creamy and savory but different from the usual.
I also appreciate how straightforward this Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna Alfredo Recipe is to prepare. Using no-boil noodles cuts down on time, and the homemade alfredo sauce is surprisingly quick to whip up with simple pantry ingredients. It’s a perfect dish for cozy family dinners, impressing guests at weekend get-togethers, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your regular rotation.
Ingredients You'll Need
The simplicity of the ingredients is what really makes this dish shine, and each one plays a key role in creating the amazing flavor and texture I love. From fresh broccoli and basil to creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella, everything comes together in perfect harmony.
- Fresh broccoli florets: Using just the tops keeps the texture tender and vibrant in color.
- Fresh basil leaves: These add a bright, herbal note that pairs beautifully with the broccoli.
- Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness to the pesto without overpowering the fresh ingredients.
- Garlic cloves: They bring a warm, aromatic depth to both the pesto and the alfredo sauce.
- Grated parmesan cheese: Provides a sharp, salty kick that enhances overall flavor.
- Unsalted butter and flour: The building blocks for a smooth, creamy white sauce.
- Ricotta cheese: Adds luscious creaminess and balances the sharper cheeses.
- Milk and low-sodium chicken broth: Create a velvety alfredo sauce that’s light yet flavorful.
- Dried basil and seasoning: Perfect for layering flavor throughout the dish.
- Cooked shredded chicken: I love using rotisserie for convenience, but freshly baked chicken works great too.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that classic stretchy, cheesy texture.
- Broccoli pesto: A vibrant twist that brings freshness and complexity.
- No-boil lasagna noodles: Make the assembly quick and hassle-free without sacrificing taste or texture.
Directions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the broccoli pesto by adding fresh broccoli florets, packed basil leaves, olive oil, garlic cloves, salt, pepper, and grated parmesan cheese to a food processor. Pulse until combined but still slightly chunky for texture. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then set aside.
Step 3: Make the healthy alfredo white sauce by melting butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
Step 4: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until it turns a light golden color, which helps thicken the sauce without a raw flour taste.
Step 5: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Then stir in the chicken broth and ricotta cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Add dried basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently on medium-low heat for 5 to 8 minutes until it thickens to a luscious consistency. Remove from heat and adjust seasonings if necessary.
Step 7: Begin assembling the lasagna by spreading a thin layer of the alfredo sauce on the bottom of your prepared baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
Step 8: Layer three no-boil lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread more sauce on top, then add spoonfuls of the broccoli pesto, scattered shredded chicken, and sprinkle parmesan and mozzarella cheeses evenly.
Step 9: Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with a top layer of noodles covered generously with sauce and cheese to ensure a perfect golden, bubbly top.
Step 10: Bake the lasagna uncovered for 30 minutes. Then carefully cover it with foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese has melted fully and the edges start to crisp up.
Step 11: Once out of the oven, let the lasagna rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing so the layers set nicely and each serving holds together beautifully. Serve warm and enjoy all that creamy, cheesy goodness!
Servings and Timing
This Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna Alfredo Recipe yields about 10 hearty servings, making it perfect for larger families or entertaining guests. Prep time is roughly 20 minutes, including making the pesto and sauce, while the baking takes approximately 40 to 45 minutes. Adding a short resting time of 5 to 10 minutes brings the total time to just about 1 hour, making this dish both delicious and manageable even on busy days.
How to Serve This Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna Alfredo Recipe
I love serving this lasagna fresh and warm, straight from the oven when the cheese is irresistibly gooey and the edges are perfectly golden. It pairs wonderfully with crisp salads featuring tangy vinaigrettes or lemony steamed vegetables to add brightness and contrast the dish’s richness. For presentation, I often garnish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or extra parmesan for that lovely pop of color and flavor.
For a casual family dinner, I cut generous square portions and serve with garlic bread or soft dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce. This recipe also shines at holiday gatherings or weekend get-togethers—simply serve it family-style right from the casserole dish for a cozy, inviting vibe that everyone will appreciate. I recommend enjoying it hot or warm; reheated leftovers can be just as delightful, but I find the flavors shine best when freshly baked.
In terms of beverages, I usually opt for refreshing non-alcoholic options like sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or iced herbal teas to complement the creamy texture without overpowering the palate. Whether it’s a weeknight comfort meal or a special occasion, this Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna Alfredo Recipe never fails to impress with its comforting, sophisticated layers.
Variations
One of the reasons I adore this Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna Alfredo Recipe is how adaptable it is. If you want to mix things up, try swapping in turkey or tofu for the chicken for a different protein profile or to suit dietary preferences. You can also experiment with different greens; baby spinach or kale work beautifully in place of or alongside broccoli for added nutrient variety and texture.
For those following gluten-free diets, using gluten-free no-boil lasagna noodles and gluten-free flour for the alfredo sauce works really well without sacrificing flavor or texture. Vegan variations are possible too: replace the milk, butter, ricotta, and mozzarella with plant-based alternatives like cashew cream, vegan cheese, and non-dairy milk, along with a vegan pesto to keep that fresh, herbal punch.
If you’re a fan of bold flavors, try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the alfredo sauce or layering in caramelized onions for a little extra depth and sweetness. Cooking methods can vary as well; I occasionally assemble this lasagna in smaller individual ramekins for fun portion control and quicker bake times, perfect for meal prep or single servings.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
I always store any leftover Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna Alfredo in airtight containers or cover the original baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. It keeps well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Storing it properly ensures the flavors stay fresh and the textures remain satisfying when you reheat it later.
Freezing
This lasagna freezes beautifully, making it ideal for batch cooking. To freeze, assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Wrap the entire covered pan tightly in plastic wrap and foil or transfer individual portions into freezer-safe containers. It will stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking as usual.
Reheating
The best way to reheat leftovers is in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to keep the moisture in, for about 20 to 25 minutes until warmed through. To restore some crispiness on top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can lead to uneven heating and a less pleasant texture. This method keeps the creamy sauce luscious and the cheese deliciously melty.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cooked chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Fresh baked or grilled chicken shredded works wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure it’s cooked and seasoned to your liking before layering into the lasagna.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh when ready. This actually helps the flavors meld beautifully for an even tastier final dish.
What kind of broccoli is best to use for the pesto?
I prefer using fresh broccoli florets, focusing on the tops for tenderness and vibrant color. Avoid the thicker stems unless finely chopped, as they can be tough and overpowering.
Can I substitute the no-boil noodles with regular lasagna noodles?
You can, but you’ll need to boil those noodles before assembling the lasagna. No-boil noodles make the preparation easier and reduce cooking time, but traditional noodles deliver a slightly different texture if you prefer.
How can I make the alfredo sauce dairy-free?
Try replacing milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk, use vegan butter, and swap ricotta with blended silken tofu or cashew cream. Nutritional yeast can help add a cheesy depth without dairy.
Conclusion
I truly hope you give this Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna Alfredo Recipe a try because it’s a dish that never fails to satisfy and impress. The combination of creamy sauce, fresh pesto, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli creates a comforting meal that feels both special and approachable. From busy weeknights to relaxed weekend dinners, it’s become one of my favorite go-to recipes that I’m excited to share with you. Happy cooking!
PrintChicken and Broccoli Lasagna Alfredo Recipe
This Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna Alfredo is a comforting and creamy Italian-inspired dish featuring layers of tender no-boil lasagna noodles, shredded rotisserie chicken, fresh broccoli pesto, and a homemade healthy Alfredo white sauce made with ricotta and broth. The combination of fresh basil pesto and cheesy layers creates a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Salt
Ingredients
Broccoli Pesto
- 1 ½ cups fresh broccoli florets (just the tops, not the stem)
- 1 ½ cups fresh basil leaves (packed)
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 large garlic cloves
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
Alfredo White Sauce
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 - 4 large garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tbsp flour (all-purpose, whole wheat, white whole wheat, or gluten-free)
- 15 ounces fresh ricotta (skim or whole milk)
- 1 ½ cups milk (skim, whole, 2%, or dairy-free)
- 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Lasagna Assembly
- 2 ½ cups cooked shredded rotisserie chicken (or shredded baked chicken)
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese (low fat or regular)
- 1 ½ cups broccoli pesto (from recipe above)
- 1 box no-boil lasagna noodles
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish to prepare it for assembling the lasagna.
- Make the Pesto: Combine the broccoli florets, fresh basil leaves, olive oil, garlic cloves, salt, pepper, and grated parmesan cheese in a food processor. Pulse until the mixture is combined and smooth but still has a bit of texture. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Set the pesto aside.
- Make the Healthy Alfredo White Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Whisk in the flour and cook it for about 1 minute until golden and bubbly.
- Make the Healthy Alfredo White Sauce (continued): Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly. Add the low-sodium broth and fresh ricotta cheese, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Stir in the dried basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Make the Healthy Alfredo White Sauce (finish): Allow the sauce to simmer on medium-low heat for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Remove from heat and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of the Alfredo sauce on the bottom of the prepared casserole dish to prevent sticking and create a base layer.
- Assemble the Lasagna (layering): Place 3 no-boil lasagna noodles over the sauce. Add a layer of Alfredo sauce, then spoon on some broccoli pesto, followed by shredded chicken, grated parmesan, and mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process two more times—noodles, Alfredo sauce, broccoli pesto, chicken, parmesan, and mozzarella—finishing with a top layer of noodles, sauce, and a generous layer of cheese to cover completely.
- Bake the Lasagna: Place the assembled lasagna uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes to brown and bubble the cheese.
- Cover and Continue Baking: Carefully cover the lasagna with foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes to ensure everything is cooked evenly and the cheese is melted throughout.
- Let it Rest: Remove the lasagna from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting time helps the layers to set and makes slicing easier without falling apart.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice the lasagna into portions and serve warm. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy, and herbaceous flavors of this hearty Chicken and Broccoli Lasagna Alfredo!
Notes
- You can use store-bought basil pesto as a substitute if you prefer.
- No-boil lasagna noodles simplify the recipe by eliminating the need to pre-cook noodles.
- Use unsalted butter to better control the salt content in the dish.
- If you want a lighter dish, use skim milk and low-fat cheeses.
- Resting the lasagna before slicing is important to keep the layers intact when serving.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.


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