When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as beloved as lasagna. The combination of tender pasta, rich sauce, and savory fillings makes lasagna a favorite for many families. But what if you could give this classic dish a new spin? Enter Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Rolls—an innovative, mouthwatering take on traditional lasagna that is sure to delight your taste buds. This recipe is a perfect option for a dinner for a family of four, as it combines creamy Alfredo sauce, juicy chicken, and the satisfying layers of lasagna in a fun, individual serving format. Let’s dive into this irresistible dish and explore how to make Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll Ups, with the added option of Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll Ups with spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
Why Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Rolls?
Traditional lasagna can sometimes be a bit cumbersome to make, especially when trying to slice it into neat portions. The beauty of Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll Ups is that they are individually portioned and easier to serve, making them ideal for families. These rolls are also a fantastic way to enjoy the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce paired with chicken in a more manageable and fun format. Plus, adding spinach can boost the nutritional value, making it a healthier option for those looking to pack some greens into their meal.
Ingredients for Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Rolls
For this recipe, we’ll need the following ingredients:
- Lasagna noodles (12 sheets)
- Chicken breast (2 large, cooked and shredded)
- Alfredo sauce (about 2 cups, homemade or store-bought)
- Ricotta cheese (1 cup)
- Mozzarella cheese (2 cups, shredded)
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated)
- Spinach (1 cup, optional but recommended for added nutrition)
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Butter (2 tablespoons)
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon, for cooking)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Rolls
Follow these easy steps to make the best Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll Ups:
Step 1: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once the water is boiling, add the lasagna noodles and cook them according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside to cool slightly. This will make them easier to handle and prevent them from sticking together.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the noodles are cooking, season and cook the chicken breasts. You can either grill, pan-sear, or bake the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks or chop it into small pieces. Set it aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
If you’re using store-bought Alfredo sauce, simply heat it in a saucepan over medium heat. If you’re making homemade Alfredo sauce, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Once simmering, add grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and spinach (if using). Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and stir everything together until well combined.
Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna Rolls
Now that your noodles are cooked and your filling is ready, it’s time to assemble the rolls. Lay one lasagna noodle flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous amount of the chicken mixture on top, then roll up the noodle tightly. Repeat this process for the remaining noodles and filling.
Step 6: Arrange in a Baking Dish
Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place the rolled-up lasagna noodles seam-side down in the dish. Once all the rolls are arranged, pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the top of the rolls. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top and add grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Step 7: Bake the Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Rolls
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can broil it for the last few minutes if you want the cheese to turn golden and slightly crispy on top.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once your Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll Ups are done baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete dinner.
Variations of Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll Ups
Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll Ups with Spinach
For those who enjoy a bit of greens in their meals, adding spinach to the filling is a great way to enhance both the flavor and nutritional profile of the dish. Spinach not only adds a pop of color but also balances out the richness of the Alfredo sauce with its earthy flavor. Simply add a cup of fresh spinach (or frozen spinach that’s been thawed and drained) to the chicken and ricotta mixture. The spinach will wilt slightly as the rolls bake, blending perfectly with the creamy Alfredo sauce.
Mexican Lasagna Roll Ups
If you’re in the mood for a little spice, you can turn these Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll Ups into a Mexican-inspired dish by swapping out the Alfredo sauce for a creamy salsa or queso dip. Incorporate some taco seasoning into the chicken mixture and use a blend of Mexican cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack. The rolls will take on a whole new flavor profile, giving you the comfort of lasagna with a fiesta twist!
Chicken Rotel Lasagna
For another variation, consider adding Rotel tomatoes to your Chicken Alfredo Roll Ups for a zesty and slightly tangy flavor. Simply mix a can of Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies) into the chicken filling for a burst of flavor. The slight heat from the chiles will complement the creamy Alfredo sauce beautifully.
Alfredo Roll Ups Chicken for Dinner for a Family of Four
This recipe is perfectly portioned to serve a family of four, with each person getting two to three rolls, depending on appetite. The beauty of Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll Ups is that they are incredibly filling, so a small serving is often enough to satisfy even the hungriest eaters. The recipe can be easily doubled or halved to adjust for more or fewer people.
Chicken Alfredo Roll Ups Lasagna for a Special Occasion
Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll Ups also make a fantastic dish for special occasions like a family gathering or a dinner party. The individual portions look impressive on the table, and everyone can enjoy their own little roll-up, making it easy to serve and enjoy.
Conclusion: A Family-Friendly Favorite
Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll Ups are the perfect combination of creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and the comforting layers of lasagna. Whether you choose to include spinach, try a Mexican twist, or keep it classic, these roll-ups are sure to become a family favorite. The recipe is easy to follow and can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient and delicious dinner for a family of four or more. So, next time you’re craving something comforting yet exciting, give this Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll Ups recipe a try—you won’t regret it!
