Ingredients:
- 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
- Lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed
- 2 packets of ranch seasoning mix
- 3 cans (12 oz each) evaporated milk
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Cheddar cheese, shredded
- Bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
2. Prepare the Ranch Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the evaporated milk and ranch seasoning packets. Whisk together over medium heat for about 5 minutes until well combined. Add the cubed cream cheese and continue stirring until the mixture comes to a boil and the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Prepare the Chicken: Shred the rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces, discarding the skin and bones.
4. Assemble the Lasagna: In a 9×13-inch baking pan, start by layering a small amount of the ranch sauce and chicken mixture on the bottom. Add a layer of cooked lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Repeat the layers, finishing each layer with a generous sprinkle of both mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Continue layering until you run out of noodles and sauce, ensuring the top layer is cheese.
5. Add the Bacon: Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the top layer of cheese.
6. Bake the Lasagna: Cover the pan with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the lasagna is hot and golden brown around the edges.
7. Rest and Serve: Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the lasagna to set, making it easier to slice into neat portions.
8. Garnish and Enjoy: Optionally, garnish the lasagna with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Slice, serve, and enjoy your delicious, creamy, and cheesy chicken lasagna with the flavors of ranch seasoning and bacon!
This comforting dish is perfect for family gatherings and cold winter nights. Enjoy!
1. Can I use cooked chicken breasts instead of a rotisserie chicken? Yes, you can use cooked and shredded chicken breasts or thighs in place of a rotisserie chicken. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked and seasoned to your preference before adding it to the lasagna.
2. Can I use regular pasta instead of lasagna noodles? Yes, you can substitute lasagna noodles with other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine. Keep in mind that the cooking time might vary, so cook the pasta according to the package instructions before layering it in the lasagna.
3. Can I prepare the lasagna ahead of time and bake it later? Yes, you can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked lasagna for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking according to the instructions.
4. Can I make this lasagna without bacon? Absolutely, the bacon can be omitted if you prefer a non-meat version or if you don’t eat pork. The lasagna will still be delicious and flavorful without it.
5. Can I adjust the level of spiciness in this recipe? Yes, you can customize the spiciness by choosing mild or spicy ranch seasoning packets. Additionally, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the ranch sauce if you prefer a spicier lasagna.
6. Can I use low-fat or fat-free ingredients to make this dish healthier? Yes, you can use reduced-fat or fat-free versions of cream cheese, evaporated milk, and cheese to reduce the overall fat content. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
7. How long does the leftover lasagna last in the refrigerator? Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven until heated through before serving.
8. Can I add vegetables to the lasagna? Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the layers for added nutrition and flavor. Make sure to sauté or blanch the vegetables before incorporating them into the lasagna.
Feel free to customize the recipe to your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy your creamy cheesy chicken lasagna! 🍗🧀🍝