Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Lasagna is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish. This comforting casserole layers tender shredded chicken, vibrant broccoli, and rich cheddar cheese between soft lasagna noodles, all smothered in a velvety white sauce. The result is a perfectly baked dish with a golden, bubbly top and a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen.

Whether you’re making it for a weeknight family dinner or preparing a meal for a special gathering, this lasagna is sure to impress. The combination of chicken and broccoli adds heartiness, while the creamy cheese sauce ties everything together for an irresistible bite. One slice is all it takes to turn this into a household favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Lasagna

Perfect Comfort Food: Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying—this dish is the ultimate cozy meal.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love the rich flavors and creamy texture.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and bake when ready.
Balanced & Nutritious: Loaded with protein from the chicken and fiber from the broccoli.
A Fun Twist on Classic Lasagna: No tomato sauce here! The white sauce and cheddar bring a unique and delicious flavor.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To ensure a smooth cooking process, gathering the right tools and equipment is key. Here’s what you’ll need and why each tool is essential:

Large Pot: For boiling the lasagna noodles to the perfect texture.
Strainer: To drain the cooked noodles without breaking them.
Large Skillet or Saucepan: Used to cook the creamy cheddar sauce and sauté the chicken if needed.
Mixing Bowls: For combining shredded chicken, cheese, and seasonings.
Baking Dish (9×13 inch): The perfect size for layering and baking the lasagna evenly.
Whisk: Helps create a smooth, lump-free sauce.
Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: For chopping broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient portions for a well-balanced dish.
Aluminum Foil: Prevents the lasagna from over-browning while baking.

Having these tools ready will make assembling and baking your Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Lasagna much easier!

Preparation Tips

Pre-Cook the Broccoli Lightly: Steam or blanch the broccoli for a few minutes before layering. This keeps it tender but not mushy.
Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking from scratch.
Cook the Noodles Al Dente: Since they’ll continue cooking in the oven, avoid overboiling them.
Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that may affect melting. Freshly shredded cheddar will give a smoother texture.
Let the Lasagna Rest After Baking: Allowing it to sit for 10–15 minutes helps it set, making slicing easier.

Ingredients for This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Lasagna

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this rich and creamy lasagna:

For the Lasagna Layers:

12 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
3 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
3 cups broccoli florets, lightly steamed or blanched
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For the White Cheddar Sauce:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)

For Topping:

½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

With these ingredients, you’ll get a creamy, cheesy lasagna bursting with flavor in every bite!

Step 1: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse them with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the White Cheddar Sauce

In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute until it forms a smooth paste (roux).
Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, lightly steamed broccoli, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
Pour 1 cup of the prepared white cheddar sauce into the mixture and stir until everything is well coated.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of the white cheddar sauce on the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer three lasagna noodles over the sauce.
Spread a portion of the chicken and broccoli mixture over the noodles.
Drizzle some white cheddar sauce over the layer, then sprinkle a bit of mozzarella cheese.
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of noodles on top.
Pour the remaining sauce over the top and spread evenly.
Sprinkle the extra shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top for a golden, cheesy crust.

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Let the lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing to allow it to set properly.

Notes

Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
Lighter Version: Swap heavy cream for more milk and use low-fat cheese to reduce calories.
Extra Creamy Sauce: If you prefer a richer lasagna, add an extra ½ cup of cheddar cheese to the sauce.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and replace flour with a gluten-free thickener.
For a Crispy Top: Broil the lasagna for 2–3 minutes after baking for a golden, slightly crispy cheese topping.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Noodles: They should be slightly firm since they’ll continue cooking in the oven.
Skipping the Resting Time: Cutting too soon will result in a runny lasagna. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes after baking.
Not Draining the Broccoli Properly: Excess moisture can make the lasagna watery. Be sure to pat it dry after steaming.
Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: It contains additives that prevent smooth melting. Freshly shredded cheese works best.
Too Much Sauce Between Layers: While tempting, too much sauce can make the lasagna overly soft and difficult to slice.
Burning the Top: If the cheese is browning too quickly, loosely cover the lasagna with foil while baking.

What to Serve With Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Lasagna?

A hearty and creamy dish like this pairs well with fresh, crunchy, and light sides to balance out the richness. Here are some great options:

8 Perfect Side Dishes

1. Garlic Bread

A classic lasagna companion! Crispy, buttery, and garlicky, it’s perfect for scooping up extra sauce.

2. Caesar Salad

The crisp romaine, Parmesan shavings, and tangy dressing add a refreshing contrast to the creamy lasagna.

3. Roasted Vegetables

A mix of roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers brings a sweet and slightly smoky element to the meal.

4. Steamed Asparagus

Lightly seasoned and drizzled with olive oil or lemon juice, asparagus adds a fresh bite without overpowering the dish.

5. Tomato Cucumber Salad

A simple salad with juicy tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the lasagna.

6. Sauteed Spinach with Garlic

Quickly sautéed spinach in olive oil and garlic adds a nutritious and flavorful green side.

7. Minestrone Soup

A light, vegetable-packed soup makes for a warming and wholesome appetizer before digging into the lasagna.

8. Fruit Salad

A refreshing bowl of mixed berries, apples, and citrus slices adds a sweet, juicy contrast to the cheesy dish.

With these sides, you’ll have a complete meal that satisfies without feeling too heavy!

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:

Allow the lasagna to cool completely before storing.
Cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container.
Keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

For best results, freeze before baking. Assemble the lasagna, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
If freezing after baking, let it cool completely, slice into portions, and store in airtight containers or freezer bags.

Reheating:

From the fridge: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until heated through.
From frozen: Bake covered at 375°F (190°C) for 50–60 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
Microwave (for single servings): Heat on medium power for 2–3 minutes, checking in between to avoid overheating.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Calories: ~450
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fats: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: ~600mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and vary based on ingredient choices.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before putting it in the oven.

2. Can I use fresh pasta sheets instead of dried noodles?

Absolutely! Fresh pasta sheets cook faster and don’t require pre-boiling. Just layer them directly into the dish.

3. What can I use instead of chicken?

You can substitute shredded turkey, ground turkey, or even cooked mushrooms for a vegetarian option.

4. How do I prevent my lasagna from getting too watery?

Make sure to drain the broccoli well after steaming and avoid adding too much sauce between the layers. Let the lasagna rest after baking to allow it to set.

5. Can I add more cheese?

Of course! If you love extra cheese, feel free to increase the cheddar and mozzarella amounts, or even add a layer of ricotta for extra creaminess.

6. How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and swap the all-purpose flour in the sauce with cornstarch or a gluten-free thickener.

7. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be great additions to complement the broccoli.

8. How long should I let the lasagna rest before slicing?

For best results, let it rest for 10–15 minutes after baking to prevent it from falling apart when sliced.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Lasagna is a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish that puts a delicious spin on classic lasagna. With layers of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich cheddar sauce, it’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even special occasions. Whether you make it ahead of time, freeze leftovers, or customize the ingredients to your taste, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy every cheesy bite!