This Easy Chicken Alfredo Zucchini Lasagna swaps noodles for tender zucchini slices, making it a lighter and tasty dish. Creamy Alfredo sauce, chicken, and gooey cheese come together for a perfect bite!
If you’re like me and always looking for more veggies, this recipe is a winner! I love how quick it is to prepare. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a cheesy, comforting meal that’s not too heavy? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: These are the star of the dish, replacing pasta for a healthier option. If you can’t find zucchinis, yellow squash works well too. Just slice them thin to keep the layers even!
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is great here. You can use rotisserie chicken for ease, or even leftover turkey. For a vegetarian option, try sautéed mushrooms or cooked lentils instead.
Alfredo sauce: I usually go for store-bought for simplicity, but homemade is always delicious. If you’re looking to cut calories, use a lighter version or make a cauliflower Alfredo sauce.
Cheese: The mozzarella gives it that gooey stretch. If you prefer a different cheese, try provolone or fontina for a unique flavor. Vegan cheeses can work as a substitute too!
How Do You Prepare Zucchini for Lasagna Without Making It Watery?
Getting the moisture out of zucchini is key to preventing a soggy dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Slice zucchini thinly lengthwise.
- Sprinkle salt on the slices and let them sit on paper towels for about 10 minutes.
- Pat them dry to absorb the excess moisture before layering.
This simple step really makes a difference in texture, ensuring your lasagna stays deliciously creamy but not runny!
Easy Chicken Alfredo Zucchini Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Lasagna:
- 3 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced lengthwise
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or basil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Alfredo Zucchini Lasagna will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 40 minutes to bake, making it a quick, satisfying meal that’s ready in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Slice your zucchinis thinly lengthwise. Place them on paper towels, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture. After 10 minutes, pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Mix the Chicken Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken with 1 cup of Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Layer the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to assemble! Start by spreading a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Layer half of the zucchini slices over the sauce, slightly overlapping them.
5. Add Chicken and Cheese Layer:
Spread half of your chicken mixture over the zucchini layer. Then sprinkle about 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese and a little Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Repeat the Layers:
Add another layer with the remaining zucchini slices, followed by the rest of the chicken mixture. Top this with the remaining Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Cover your dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Cool and Serve:
Let your lasagna cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set a little better, making it easier to serve. If you’d like, garnish with some fresh chopped parsley or basil for that lovely touch!
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and veggie-packed twist on classic lasagna!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Alfredo Zucchini Lasagna
Can I Use Other Veggies Besides Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can use other vegetables like eggplant or thinly sliced bell peppers. Just make sure they are sliced thin to maintain a similar cooking time and texture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and replace it with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cooked lentils for added protein. You can also add more cheese for extra flavor!
Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When ready to bake, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Adding a splash of Alfredo sauce can help restore creaminess!
