Shredded Chicken Spinach Lasagna

Name: Shredded Chicken Spinach Lasagna
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 9 lasagna noodles; 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 1 egg; 3 cups marinara sauce; 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Warm & Hearty Classics

I absolutely love making this Shredded Chicken Spinach Lasagna for family gatherings and cozy nights in. The layers of tender lasagna noodles, succulent shredded chicken, and vibrant spinach come together beautifully, making each bite a delight. The rich, creamy sauce elevates the dish, tying in all the flavors perfectly. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens while enjoying a hearty meal, and I always find myself going back for seconds! Plus, it’s relatively simple to make, which is a win for busy weeknights.

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-02-28T00:37:35.503Z

Making this Shredded Chicken Spinach Lasagna brought back memories of cooking with my grandmother. We spent hours in the kitchen perfecting our favorite pasta dishes, and I always remember her saying that the secret to a great lasagna is letting it rest before serving. This ensures the layers hold together beautifully. I took her advice to heart, and it’s made a world of difference!

When experimenting with the flavors, I discovered that adding a hint of nutmeg to the cheese mixture complements the spinach so well. It’s a subtle touch that enhances the overall taste and elevates the dish from simple to spectacular. I can't wait to share it with you!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Layers of gooey cheese and tender chicken create a comforting dish.
Fresh spinach adds a nutritious punch and vibrant color.
Easy to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Layering Techniques

When assembling your lasagna, consider the layering to ensure an even distribution of flavors. Start with a base layer of marinara sauce to prevent the noodles from sticking to the baking dish, creating a moisture barrier. For the layers, I recommend alternating between the ricotta mixture, shredded chicken, and spinach to allow each component to infuse its flavor into the dish. This method enhances the overall taste and makes sure you get a bit of everything in each serving.

Be cautious about your noodle placement. Ensure they completely overlap with the previous layer but do not overcrowd the dish. A good rule of thumb is to use three noodles per layer, but you might need to adjust based on your baking dish. Remember that lasagna noodles expand slightly during cooking, so leaving a little space will help maintain a nice texture without becoming mushy.

Ingredient Substitutions and Tips

If you're looking to lighten things up, you can swap out ricotta cheese for cottage cheese. The texture will be slightly different, but the taste remains delicious. For a twist on flavor, try adding feta cheese to your ricotta mixture. This adds tanginess that pairs well with the spinach. For the shredded chicken, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option. Just be sure to shred it finely so it distributes well throughout the lasagna.

For those wishing to make the dish vegetarian, you can substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or lentils. Both options provide a hearty texture without overwhelming the delicate spinach flavor. Additionally, if you’re short on marinara sauce, a simple homemade sauce made from crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs can easily replace store-bought versions while enhancing freshness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious lasagna:

Ingredients for Shredded Chicken Spinach Lasagna

9 lasagna noodles
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 egg
3 cups marinara sauce
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are prepped before starting to make the cooking process smoother.

Instructions

Follow these steps to assemble and bake your lasagna:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Noodles

In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Layer the Lasagna

In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place three lasagna noodles on top, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, half of the shredded chicken, and half of the chopped spinach. Repeat the layers, finishing with noodles and remaining marinara sauce on top.

Add Cheese

Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top layer of noodles.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let it Rest

Once cooked, allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers hold together better.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil if desired, serve warm, and enjoy!

Make sure to have a sharp knife for easy slicing!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding some pesto to your ricotta mixture. It will bring a fresh herb flavor to your lasagna.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Shredded Chicken Spinach Lasagna is an ideal make-ahead dish. You can assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, covered tightly with foil. When you're ready to bake, just extend the cooking time by about 10 minutes to account for the chill in the dish. This makes it perfect for busy weekdays or dinner parties, allowing you to enjoy time with your guests.

If you're planning to freeze it, I recommend assembling it without baking first. Wrap the assembled, unbaked lasagna tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and then bake it as per the original instructions. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may need a few extra minutes if still slightly frozen.

Serving Suggestions

Once your lasagna is perfectly baked, it pairs delightfully with a light side salad, such as a simple arugula salad dressed with olive oil and lemon. This adds a refreshing contrast to the rich cheese and creamy sauce. A side of garlic bread can also be a fantastic accompaniment to scoop up any extra sauce left on the plate.

To elevate your presentation, consider garnishing with fresh basil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a kick. If you're feeling adventurous, a drizzle of balsamic glaze can enhance the flavor and add a gourmet touch, making this dish suitable for both a casual family dinner and a more formal gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it overnight. Just increase the baking time by a few minutes.

→ What can I use instead of shredded chicken?

You can easily substitute shredded turkey or omit the meat entirely for a vegetarian version.

→ Can I freeze the lasagna?

Absolutely! Once cooled, you can wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

→ What sides pair well with lasagna?

A simple green salad and garlic bread make excellent accompaniments to lasagna.