Chicken Ham and Cheese Lasagna Recipe Everyone Will Crave

Gather Ingredients for This Lasagna

Preparing any fantastic meal begins with selecting the right components. For this chicken ham and cheese lasagna, the quality of your ingredients directly impacts the final taste and texture. We’ll be focusing on fresh, flavorful items that come together to create a harmonious and truly crave-worthy dish. Think of this stage as laying the foundation for culinary success, ensuring every bite is a delight. Having everything prepped and ready will also make the assembly process much smoother and more enjoyable, allowing you to focus on the art of layering.

Noodles, Cheeses, and Proteins

The core of any lasagna lies in its layers. You’ll need lasagna noodles, either fresh or dried. While dried noodles are convenient, fresh pasta can offer a more tender texture and faster cooking time. For the cheeses, a blend is key to achieving depth of flavor and that irresistible gooeyness. We recommend a mix of shredded mozzarella for its excellent melting properties, parmesan for its sharp, salty notes, and possibly a touch of ricotta for creaminess, though the Mornay sauce will provide much of that. Our proteins will be cooked chicken and turkey ham. Ensure your chicken is already cooked and cooled, making it easier to shred. Turkey ham offers a lighter, savory counterpoint to the rich sauce and cheese, creating a balanced flavor profile that everyone will love. Don’t forget a pinch of salt and black pepper to season your proteins.

Sauce Ingredients for Mornay

The creamy Mornay sauce is the heart of this lasagna, setting it apart from traditional recipes. To create this luxurious béchamel-based sauce, you’ll need unsalted butter, all-purpose flour to create a roux, and whole milk for a rich base. The true star of Mornay is the cheese, typically Gruyère or Parmesan, or a combination. We’ll be using Parmesan, freshly grated for the best flavor. A bay leaf, a pinch of nutmeg, and a dash of white pepper will infuse the sauce with subtle aromatic notes, elevating its complexity. These simple additions transform a basic béchamel into something truly extraordinary, promising a creamy, savory experience in every layer of your lasagna.

Making Creamy Mornay Sauce Easily

The Mornay sauce is what gives this lasagna its signature creamy texture and rich flavor. While it might sound intimidating, making it is surprisingly straightforward and incredibly rewarding. This classic French sauce, a cheesy variation of béchamel, adds a luxurious depth that transforms the entire dish. Taking the time to prepare it properly will make all the difference, creating a velvety consistency that perfectly coats every noodle and piece of filling. It’s a foundational element that ensures your chicken ham and cheese lasagna stands out.

Sauté Aromatics in Butter

Begin by melting a generous amount of unsalted butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and slightly bubbling, add finely minced shallots or a small amount of finely chopped onion. Sauté these aromatics gently until they are translucent and fragrant, typically for about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds the initial flavor base for your Mornay sauce, adding a delicate sweetness and depth that complements the richness of the cheese. Avoid browning them too much; we want gentle flavor extraction. Adding a bay leaf at this stage can also infuse the butter with an herbal note that will carry through the entire sauce.

Whisking Flour and Milk Smoothly

Next, sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the melted butter and aromatics. Whisk continuously for about one to two minutes, creating a smooth roux. This cooks out the raw flour taste and forms the thickening agent for your sauce. Gradually, and while continuously whisking, pour in the cold whole milk. Adding cold milk to a hot roux helps prevent lumps, ensuring a silky-smooth sauce. Continue whisking constantly as the sauce gently heats and thickens. Bring it to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it reaches a consistency thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Season with a pinch of nutmeg and white pepper during this stage.

Finish with Parmesan and Season

Once your béchamel has reached the desired thickness, remove it from the heat. This is when the béchamel truly transforms into a Mornay. Stir in a generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it is fully melted and incorporated, creating a rich, cheesy flavor. Parmesan not only adds a distinct tang but also contributes to the sauce’s luxurious texture. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Remember, the cheese itself is salty, so season judiciously. This creamy Mornay sauce is now ready to be layered into your lasagna, promising an unparalleled depth of flavor. For other creamy dinner ideas, consider our creamy baked mac and cheese.

Prepare Chicken and Ham Filling

While the Mornay sauce is undeniably the star, the chicken and ham filling provides the savory core that makes this lasagna so satisfying. Proper preparation of these proteins ensures they integrate seamlessly into the layers, offering a delightful texture and balanced flavor in every forkful. This step is crucial for achieving an even distribution of ingredients, preventing any single bite from being overwhelmingly chicken or ham. It also allows you to infuse additional flavors into your meats before they join the cheesy goodness.

Shred Cooked Chicken Simply

For this recipe, you’ll need about 2-3 cups of cooked chicken. The simplest way to achieve this is by using a store-bought rotisserie chicken, which is not only convenient but also packed with flavor. Alternatively, you can boil or bake chicken breasts until fully cooked and then allow them to cool slightly. Once cooled, the chicken can be easily shredded using two forks, pulling the meat apart into bite-sized strands. For a quicker method, a stand mixer with the paddle attachment can shred cooked chicken in mere seconds. The goal is consistent, manageable pieces that will distribute evenly throughout your lasagna layers. A well-shredded chicken also absorbs the sauce better, enhancing the overall moistness of the dish.

Dice Turkey Ham Evenly

Turkey ham offers a fantastic smoky and savory element that complements the chicken and creamy sauce perfectly. For this recipe, aim for about 1 cup of diced turkey ham. It’s important to dice the ham evenly into small, consistent cubes, roughly ¼ to ½ inch in size. This ensures that the ham is well-distributed and that you get a pleasant textural contrast in every bite without any large, chewy pieces. Evenly diced ham also helps in the layering process, preventing lumps and promoting a balanced flavor throughout the lasagna. Consider lightly sautéing the diced ham for a few minutes before adding it to the lasagna if you prefer a slightly crispier texture and intensified flavor.

Building Your Chicken Ham and Cheese Lasagna

Assembling the lasagna is where all your hard work comes together. This process, while appearing intricate, is quite straightforward once you have your components ready. The key to a successful lasagna lies in systematic layering, ensuring an even distribution of sauce, noodles, and filling. This methodical approach not only guarantees consistent flavor in every slice but also helps the lasagna hold its shape beautifully after baking. Take your time with each layer to build a truly magnificent dish.

Preheat Oven and Grease Dish

Before you begin layering, preheat your oven to the recommended temperature, typically around 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the lasagna starts baking immediately upon entering the oven, promoting even cooking. While the oven preheats, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Greasing the dish prevents the lasagna from sticking to the bottom and sides, making serving much easier and ensuring those beautiful, intact slices. A non-stick dish can also be a good option, but a little grease provides extra insurance. You want a dish deep enough to accommodate multiple layers without overflowing during baking.

First Layers of Noodles and Sauce

Start your lasagna construction with a thin layer of Mornay sauce spread evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. This initial sauce layer is crucial as it prevents the noodles from sticking and provides moisture for them to cook properly. Next, arrange a single layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce. If using dried noodles, you may need to par-boil them according to package directions; fresh noodles can often go in uncooked. Over the noodles, spread another generous layer of Mornay sauce, ensuring full coverage. This is followed by half of your shredded chicken and half of your diced turkey ham, distributed evenly. Finally, sprinkle a portion of your shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese blend over the meat. This forms the foundational layer, setting the stage for the deliciousness to come.

Repeat Layers for Fullness

Continue building your lasagna by repeating the layers. Place another layer of noodles over the cheese, followed by more Mornay sauce. Add the remaining shredded chicken and diced turkey ham, distributing them evenly. Follow with another generous sprinkling of the cheese blend. You’ll typically get two or three full layers, depending on the depth of your baking dish and the number of noodles used. The final layer should typically consist of noodles topped with a substantial amount of Mornay sauce and a generous covering of cheese. This top layer will brown beautifully in the oven, creating an inviting, golden crust. Ensure each layer is pressed down gently to remove any air pockets and create a compact structure that will slice cleanly. For more inspiring dinner ideas, check out our main course dinner recipes.

Baking The Chicken Ham and Cheese Lasagna

Baking is the magical step where all the individual components of your chicken ham and cheese lasagna meld into a harmonious, comforting dish. The oven’s heat transforms the sauce into a bubbling, creamy delight, softens the noodles to perfection, and crisps the cheese on top. Achieving the right balance of covered and uncovered baking is crucial for both even cooking and that desirable golden-brown finish. This process allows the flavors to deepen and combine, creating a truly irresistible meal. Proper baking technique ensures your lasagna is cooked through, moist, and perfectly set.

Bake Covered for Even Heat

Once your lasagna is fully assembled, cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This step is incredibly important during the initial baking phase. Baking covered traps steam within the dish, which helps the lasagna noodles cook evenly and become tender without drying out. The foil also prevents the top layer of cheese from browning too quickly before the interior is fully heated through. Place the covered lasagna in your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is visibly bubbling around the edges. This initial covered bake ensures that the internal temperature rises steadily and all ingredients are thoroughly heated, setting the stage for the perfect finish. For another chicken dish that bakes beautifully, try our crispy parmesan chicken.

Uncover for Golden Brown Top

After the initial covered baking period, carefully remove the foil. This is the moment to achieve that classic, mouth-watering golden-brown crust on top of your lasagna. Return the uncovered dish to the oven and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes. During this time, the cheese on the surface will melt, bubble, and turn a beautiful golden hue, creating a slightly crispy, savory topping. Keep a close eye on it during this stage to prevent over-browning. If the edges start to get too dark, you can loosely tent the dish with foil again. The lasagna is done when the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F (74°C) and the top is perfectly golden and irresistible. The rich, creamy Mornay sauce will be bubbling enticingly, indicating a perfectly cooked dish.

Serving Your Crave-Worthy Lasagna Dish

After all the effort put into preparing and baking your delicious chicken ham and cheese lasagna, the serving stage is paramount to ensuring its perfection. A common mistake is to slice into the lasagna immediately after it comes out of the oven. While tempting, this can lead to a messy, collapsed dish. Proper resting and thoughtful presentation enhance the overall enjoyment of this classic comfort food, making it look as good as it tastes. Remember, presentation is key to creating a memorable meal experience for your family and guests.

Rest Lasagna Before Slicing

Once your lasagna emerges from the oven, bubbling and golden, it’s crucial to resist the urge to cut into it right away. Instead, allow the lasagna to rest uncovered on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes, or even up to 30 minutes. This resting period is not merely a suggestion; it’s a vital step for success. During this time, the layers of sauce, cheese, and noodles will set, firming up and allowing the internal juices to redistribute. This results in cleaner, more defined slices that hold their shape beautifully, rather than a runny, collapsed mess. Patience here ensures that every serving is picture-perfect and retains its structural integrity, making for a much more enjoyable experience.

Garnish and Pair with Sides

Once rested, your chicken ham and cheese lasagna is ready for its grand debut. To enhance its visual appeal and add a touch of freshness, consider a simple garnish. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil not only adds a vibrant pop of color but also a fresh herbaceous aroma that complements the rich flavors of the dish. For pairing, this hearty lasagna works wonderfully with light, refreshing side dishes. A crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast, cutting through the richness of the cheese and sauce. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread is also a classic companion, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. A simple roasted vegetable like asparagus or broccoli can also add a nice balance to the meal. Share your culinary creations with us on Pinterest and Instagram!

Storing Leftovers of Your Lasagna

One of the best things about making a large lasagna is the potential for delicious leftovers. Proper storage ensures that your hard work doesn’t go to waste and that each subsequent serving is just as enjoyable as the first. Whether you plan to enjoy it the next day or save it for a future meal, understanding the correct methods for refrigeration and freezing is key to maintaining freshness, flavor, and food safety. This section will guide you through the best practices for preserving your culinary creation, ensuring that the deliciousness lasts.

Refrigerate or Freeze Safely

To safely store leftover lasagna, first allow it to cool completely to room temperature within two hours of baking. Prompt cooling prevents bacterial growth. For short-term storage, transfer individual portions or the entire remaining lasagna into airtight containers. Refrigerated lasagna will maintain its quality for 3-4 days. For longer storage, lasagna freezes exceptionally well. You can freeze individual slices or larger portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Properly frozen lasagna can last for up to 2-3 months without significant loss of quality. Labeling with the date is always a good practice to keep track of freshness.

Reheat Instructions for Freshness

Reheating lasagna successfully ensures it tastes almost as good as fresh. For refrigerated portions, the microwave is quick and convenient. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover it, and heat on medium power until warmed through, usually 2-4 minutes. For a crispier crust and more even heating, oven reheating is preferred. Place slices in an oven-safe dish, cover loosely with foil to prevent drying, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. For frozen lasagna, it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven. If reheating directly from frozen, bake covered at 350°F (175°C) for 60-90 minutes, then uncover for the last 15-20 minutes to brown the top, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Tips for Lasagna Recipe Success

While this chicken ham and cheese lasagna recipe is designed to be straightforward, a few expert tips can elevate your dish from simply good to truly spectacular. These nuances often make the difference between an enjoyable meal and one that becomes a regular request at your dinner table. Paying attention to these details can significantly impact the texture, flavor, and overall presentation of your lasagna. Implementing these suggestions will ensure a more robust flavor profile and an impeccable finished product that showcases your culinary skills.

Ensure Sauce is Thick Enough

The consistency of your Mornay sauce is paramount. A thin sauce will result in a watery lasagna that lacks structure, while an overly thick sauce can make the dish dense. Aim for a sauce that is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon without running off quickly. If your sauce is too thin, continue to simmer it gently, whisking occasionally, until it reduces and thickens. If it becomes too thick, you can whisk in a little warm milk, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved. The right consistency ensures that the sauce adheres beautifully to the noodles and filling, providing that rich, creamy mouthfeel in every bite, critical for this creamy chicken Alfredo lasagna rolls inspired dish.

Use Fresh Noodles for Best Result

While dried, no-boil lasagna noodles offer convenience, using fresh lasagna noodles can truly elevate your dish. Fresh pasta has a more tender texture and a delicate flavor that absorbs the sauce beautifully. You can find fresh lasagna sheets in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores, or even try making your own if you’re feeling adventurous. If using fresh noodles, you often don’t need to par-boil them, saving you a step and ensuring they don’t get mushy. If opting for dried noodles, ensure they are cooked al dente before layering to prevent them from becoming too soft during the final bake. This choice greatly impacts the overall texture, contributing to a more refined and appealing lasagna experience.

Let Lasagna Rest Before Cutting

We cannot stress this enough: resist the temptation to cut into your freshly baked lasagna immediately. Allowing the lasagna to rest for at least 15-20 minutes after it comes out of the oven is crucial. During this resting period, the molten cheese and sauce will set, and the layers will firm up. This prevents the lasagna from collapsing into a messy pile when sliced and ensures that each piece holds its shape beautifully. The flavors also have a chance to meld and deepen, making for a more cohesive and delicious eating experience. Think of it as a crucial final step, much like resting a roast, which enhances the overall integrity and enjoyment of the dish.

Fun Variations for This Lasagna

One of the joys of cooking, especially with a versatile dish like lasagna, is the freedom to experiment and personalize. While our chicken ham and cheese recipe is a proven crowd-pleaser, there are countless ways to adapt it to your preferences, dietary needs, or what you have on hand. These variations can introduce new flavor profiles, textures, and even make the dish suitable for different occasions. Don’t be afraid to step outside the traditional ingredients and infuse your own culinary creativity into this classic comfort food. Personalizing your lasagna makes it truly your own.

Try Different Meats or Veggies

The chicken and turkey ham combination is delightful, but feel free to explore other protein options. Ground beef, Italian sausage, or a mixture of both can offer a more robust, savory flavor. For a vegetarian twist, consider layering in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers. A combination of sautéed vegetables and lentils can also create a hearty and flavorful meatless version. If you love a bit of spice, add some finely diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to your meat or vegetable filling. These changes allow you to cater to different tastes or even to use up ingredients you have in your fridge, making the lasagna endlessly adaptable. For a different take on chicken, you might enjoy an easy honey garlic chicken in another meal.

Experiment with Cheese Blends

While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, varying your cheese blend can dramatically alter the flavor profile of your lasagna. Consider adding Gruyère for a nuttier, richer Mornay sauce, or fontina for its exceptional melting qualities and buttery taste. Provolone can add a sharper, more piquant note. For a creamier texture, mix in some mascarpone cheese with your ricotta (if using ricotta) or even directly into the Mornay. Don’t shy away from smoked cheeses like smoked Gouda or provolone for an extra layer of complexity. Each cheese brings its unique characteristics, allowing you to fine-tune the lasagna to your palate and create a truly bespoke cheese experience.

Add Herbs for New Flavors

Herbs are fantastic for introducing fresh and aromatic dimensions to your lasagna. Beyond the classic basil and parsley, consider incorporating fresh thyme or oregano into your Mornay sauce or sprinkling it over the filling layers. Rosemary can add a pungent, earthy note that pairs wonderfully with chicken and ham. For a brighter, more Mediterranean feel, finely chopped dill or chives can be added to the cheese layers. A pinch of dried bay leaf in the sauce, removed before layering, also infuses a subtle, sophisticated aroma. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite herbal symphony, transforming the familiar taste into something new and exciting with every bite. These additions can truly elevate the overall sensory experience of your homemade lasagna.

Common Questions About This Lasagna

Making lasagna, especially for the first time or for a special occasion, often brings up a few common questions. Understanding these aspects beforehand can help you plan your cooking process, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure your dish turns out perfectly. This section addresses some of the most frequently asked questions, providing clarity and confidence as you prepare your chicken ham and cheese lasagna. Having these answers at your fingertips will streamline your cooking and reduce any potential stress, making for a smoother culinary experience.

Can I Make It Ahead

Absolutely! Lasagna is an excellent dish for make-ahead preparation, making it perfect for entertaining or busy weeknights. You can assemble the entire lasagna, including all the layers, up to 24 hours in advance. Once assembled, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator about 30 minutes to an hour before baking to allow it to come closer to room temperature. You might need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s still quite cold. This make-ahead option not only saves time on the day you plan to serve it but also allows the flavors to meld and deepen, often resulting in an even more delicious lasagna. It’s a fantastic strategy for efficient meal planning.

How to Know When Done

Knowing when your lasagna is perfectly cooked ensures a delightful texture and safe consumption. The visual cues are the most straightforward indicators: the top layer of cheese should be melted, bubbly, and beautifully golden brown. Around the edges of the dish, the sauce should be actively simmering and bubbling. For a more precise measure, you can insert a thin knife or skewer into the center of the lasagna; it should slide in easily, indicating that the noodles are tender. If you have a food thermometer, the internal temperature in the center should reach at least 165°F (74°C). If the top is browning too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Once these signs are present, remove it from the oven, and remember to let it rest before slicing.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Lasagna

Moving beyond the basic recipe, these chef’s pro tips are designed to elevate your chicken ham and cheese lasagna from a great dish to an extraordinary culinary masterpiece. These small but significant techniques can enhance flavor, texture, and overall presentation, showcasing a level of finesse that truly impresses. Incorporating these expert insights will not only make your lasagna taste more complex and refined but also deepen your understanding of how flavors interact and develop in a baked dish. Get ready to cook like a seasoned professional.

Roast Chicken for Extra Flavor

Instead of simply boiling or using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, consider roasting your chicken breasts or thighs specifically for this lasagna. Roasting the chicken with a little olive oil, salt, pepper, and perhaps some herbs like thyme or rosemary creates a much deeper, more complex flavor profile. The caramelization that occurs during roasting adds a savory richness that translates beautifully into the lasagna. Once roasted and cooled, shred the chicken as usual. This extra step, though minimal in effort, contributes significantly to the overall deliciousness of the dish, making the chicken filling more robust and flavorful. This technique is often used in high-end main course recipes to deepen flavor.

Mix Cheeses for More Depth

While Parmesan and mozzarella are wonderful, truly exceptional lasagna benefits from a thoughtful blend of cheeses. Beyond the classic choices, experiment by adding a small amount of stronger, more flavorful cheeses. A touch of grated Gruyère in the Mornay sauce can add a nutty, earthy depth. For the layering, consider incorporating some shredded provolone for a sharper, more tangy bite, or even a smoked cheddar for a unique smoky undertone. If you like a hint of spice, a small amount of Pepper Jack can be a delightful addition. The goal is to create layers of flavor, where each cheese contributes its distinct characteristics to the overall symphony, resulting in a more complex and satisfying cheese experience in every forkful.

Add Grape Juice for Gourmet Touch

This might seem unconventional, but a splash of good quality white grape juice (or even a dry white wine) can add a subtle gourmet touch to your Mornay sauce. Add about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of grape juice to your shallots after they’ve softened, allowing it to reduce almost completely before adding the flour. The acidity and subtle sweetness from the grape juice will deglaze the pan, picking up all the flavorful bits, and add a bright, nuanced complexity to the sauce that balances its richness. It’s a secret ingredient that enhances the overall sophistication of the Mornay without making it taste overtly fruity. This technique is often employed by chefs to add depth and brightness to creamy sauces, elevating a familiar dish to something truly special.

Why Everyone Will Crave This Lasagna

This chicken ham and cheese lasagna isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s a culinary experience designed to become a beloved staple in your home. From its rich, creamy sauce to the perfectly balanced filling, every element is crafted to deliver maximum comfort and flavor. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, sparking conversations and creating lasting memories around the dinner table. Prepare yourself for compliments, requests for the recipe, and the satisfaction of serving a truly extraordinary meal that will leave everyone feeling nourished and content.

Rich and Creamy Mornay Sauce

The star of this lasagna, and the primary reason it earns rave reviews, is undoubtedly the rich and creamy Mornay sauce. Unlike traditional tomato-based lasagnas, the Mornay provides a velvety, luxurious texture that blankets every layer with a comforting warmth. Made with butter, flour, milk, and savory Parmesan cheese, it’s infused with delicate aromatics and a hint of nutmeg, creating a sophisticated flavor profile that is both decadent and inviting. This sauce doesn’t just bind the ingredients; it elevates them, transforming a simple pasta dish into an elegant culinary creation. Its smooth, cheesy consistency is utterly irresistible, promising a luscious mouthfeel with every single bite.

Perfect Blend of Meats, Cheese

Beyond the exceptional sauce, the harmonious combination of tender chicken, savory turkey ham, and a medley of cheeses creates a flavor symphony that is deeply satisfying. The shredded chicken provides a lean, comforting base, while the diced turkey ham introduces a delightful smoky and salty counterpoint. These proteins are nestled between layers of perfectly cooked lasagna noodles and a generous blend of melted mozzarella for stretch and Parmesan for sharp, umami depth. This careful balance ensures that no single flavor overwhelms another, allowing each component to shine while contributing to a cohesive, hearty, and incredibly appealing dish. It’s a perfect illustration of why this chicken ham lasagna becomes an instant favorite for anyone who tastes it.