If you’re looking to elevate your lasagna game with a unique twist, these Garlic Chicken Lasagna Twirls are the perfect recipe. Combining the rich flavors of creamy garlic chicken with the satisfying texture of lasagna noodles, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 10 Cooked Lasagna Noodles: These act as the base for our delicious twirls.
- 2 cups Pulled Chicken: You can use leftover chicken or freshly cooked for this recipe.
- 2 cups Ricotta Cheese: Adds a creamy, rich texture to the filling.
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan: Provides a nutty, savory flavor.
- 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella: This is the gooey, melty cheese that tops it all off.
- 3 Garlic Cloves, minced: The star of the show, giving that robust garlic flavor.
- 1 cup White Sauce: A smooth, velvety sauce that ties all the ingredients together.
- 1 Beaten Egg: Helps to bind the filling.
- 1 tbsp Fresh Basil, chopped: Adds a fresh, aromatic touch.
- Salt and Black Pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to bring out the flavors.
How to Prepare Garlic Chicken Lasagna Twirls:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that it’s at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake.
- Prepare the Chicken Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pulled chicken, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, beaten egg, and chopped fresh basil. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. The result is a creamy, flavorful filling that’s packed with protein and delicious herbs.
- Assemble the Twirls: Lay out your cooked lasagna noodles on a clean surface. Evenly spread the chicken mixture over each noodle. Once they’re covered, roll them up tightly. Place these rolls in a greased baking dish where you’ve already spread a layer of white sauce on the bottom. This helps to prevent sticking and adds another layer of flavor.
- Add More Sauce & Cheese: Pour the remaining white sauce over the top of the lasagna rolls. Then, generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over everything. This will create that beautiful, golden, cheesy crust that’s hard to resist.
- Bake to Perfection: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes. This final step allows the cheese to melt fully and turn a lovely golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once out of the oven, garnish your Garlic Chicken Lasagna Twirls with some fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately, while the cheese is still warm and gooey.
Tips for the Best Results:
- Herb Substitution: If you’re looking to switch things up, try using thyme instead of basil. It will give the dish a different, but equally delicious, herbal flavor.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair these lasagna twirls with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal that’s not too heavy.
Nutritional Information:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 420 per serving
This recipe is a delightful way to enjoy all the comforting elements of lasagna with a garlic chicken twist. Perfect for a family dinner or when you want to impress guests with something new and flavorful.
What makes this dish even more appealing is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences. For instance, if you’re looking to add more vegetables, consider mixing in some sautéed spinach or mushrooms into the chicken filling. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a nutritious boost to the meal.
Moreover, Garlic Chicken Lasagna Twirls can be prepared ahead of time, making them an ideal option for busy weeknights or meal prep. Simply assemble the twirls, cover the dish, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re short on time, having a delicious, home-cooked meal ready to pop in the oven is a game-changer, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dinner without the last-minute rush.
