Creamy Chicken Spinach Skillet Lasagna Recipe

Creamy Chicken Spinach Skillet Lasagna Recipe: No-Fuss Comfort

Whipping up a mouthwatering creamy chicken spinach skillet lasagna takes dinner from ordinary to extraordinary in just one pan.

Layers of tender pasta, succulent chicken, and vibrant spinach create a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug.

Cheese melts into every crevice, promising rich, indulgent flavors that dance across your palate.

Home cooks adore how quickly this dish comes together without complicated steps or endless cleanup.

Weeknight cooking becomes a breeze with this all-in-one skillet wonder that packs maximum taste into minimal effort.

Each bite promises a perfect balance of creamy, savory goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Dive into this irresistible recipe and watch magic happen right in your kitchen.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Spinach Skillet Lasagna

Main Ingredients:
  • Chicken Breasts: Tender protein that serves as the primary source of meat in this skillet lasagna.
  • Lasagna Noodles: Classic pasta that provides structure and heartiness to the dish.
  • Spinach: Fresh green vegetable that adds nutrition and vibrant color to the skillet lasagna.
Dairy and Cream Components:
  • Heavy Cream: Rich base that creates a smooth and creamy sauce for the lasagna.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Melty cheese that provides stretchy texture and mild flavor.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Sharp cheese that adds depth and a salty element to the dish.
Seasonings and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the chicken and sauce.
  • Dried Basil, Garlic Powder: Aromatic spices that contribute depth and traditional Italian flavor profile.
  • Olive Oil: Cooking fat that helps brown the chicken and prevent sticking.
  • Chicken Broth: Liquid that helps cook and tenderize the chicken while adding extra flavor.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Spinach Skillet Lasagna Easily

Step 1: Sizzle Chicken

Drizzle olive oil into a spacious skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle salt and pepper across chicken breasts. Cook until golden brown on one side, roughly 3-5 minutes.

Step 2: Bubble and Simmer Chicken

Flip chicken and pour chicken broth into the skillet. Let liquid bubble gently, cover the pan, and cook until chicken is completely done, about 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Shred Tender Meat

Transfer chicken from skillet and pull apart into soft, bite-sized pieces using two forks. Keep nearby for later use.

Step 4: Create Creamy Base

Return skillet to heat and pour in:
  • Heavy cream
  • Dried basil
  • Garlic powder

Stir ingredients together smoothly. Add broken lasagna noodles, ensuring they’re completely covered by sauce. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until noodles become tender.

Step 5: Blend Cheesy Goodness

Mix into skillet:
  • Half mozzarella
  • Half Parmesan
  • Shredded chicken
  • Spinach

Season with salt and pepper. Stir until spinach wilts and ingredients marry together beautifully.

Step 6: Melt and Rest

Sprinkle remaining mozzarella across top. Cover and let sit off heat for 5 minutes, allowing cheese to transform into gooey deliciousness.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Dish out immediately, optional garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs for extra flair.

Pro Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken Spinach Skillet Lasagna

  • Soften lasagna noodles by breaking them into smaller pieces, ensuring even cooking and easier eating. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and enhance natural flavors without overwhelming the dish. Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version that still maintains creamy texture. Choose fresh spinach instead of frozen for brighter color and crisper texture, adding it just before serving to preserve nutrients and prevent wilting. Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner protein option that absorbs seasonings quickly and cooks evenly in the skillet.

Flavorful Variations for Creamy Chicken Spinach Skillet Lasagna

  • Spicy Southwest Skillet: Replace basil with chili powder, add diced jalapeños, swap mozzarella for pepper jack cheese, and mix in black beans for a zesty southwestern flavor profile.
  • Mediterranean Herb Fusion: Incorporate oregano, crumbled feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and kalamata olives to transform the dish with Mediterranean-inspired ingredients.
  • Mushroom Lover's Version: Sauté sliced cremini or shiitake mushrooms with the chicken, use thyme instead of basil, and add a splash of white wine for an earthy, rich undertone.
  • Lean Green Machine: Substitute chicken with ground turkey, double the spinach quantity, add kale, and include nutritional yeast for extra protein and nutrient boost.

Pairing Suggestions for Creamy Chicken Spinach Skillet Lasagna

  • Pairing Wine to Elevate Flavor: Select a crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the creamy, rich chicken lasagna, cutting through its heaviness with bright, acidic notes.
  • Matching Herb-Infused Side Salad: Create a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, fresh parsley, and shaved Parmesan to balance the skillet's richness and add refreshing texture.
  • Suggest Crusty Bread Accompaniment: Serve warm, garlic-rubbed sourdough or herbed focaccia to soak up the delicious creamy sauce and provide a delightful crunchy contrast.

Storage Tips for Creamy Chicken Spinach Skillet Lasagna

  • Transfer leftovers to an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Keep the lasagna flat to maintain its texture and prevent sogginess.
  • Pack cooled lasagna in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date and contents.
  • Place a single serving in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Check temperature to ensure even warming.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F.

FAQs About Creamy Chicken Spinach Skillet Lasagna

  • Can I use a different type of pasta instead of lasagna noodles?

Yes, you can substitute with penne, fettuccine, or even rotini. Just adjust cooking time based on the pasta’s package instructions.

  • Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This skillet lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheats well in a microwave or skillet with a splash of extra broth.

  • Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace chicken with white beans or extra firm tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to maintain the creamy texture and flavor profile.

  • How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, choose low-fat cheese options, and add more spinach or other leafy greens to increase nutritional value.

Why Creamy Chicken Spinach Skillet Lasagna Is A One-Pan Wonder

  • Craft Quick Comfort Meal: One-skillet wonder transforms ordinary ingredients into a delightful dinner that comes together with minimal kitchen mess and maximum flavor.
  • Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allows swapping proteins, adding different vegetables, or adjusting cheese quantities to match personal taste preferences and dietary needs.
  • Family-Friendly Dinner Solution: Packed with protein, greens, and cheesy goodness, this dish appeals to both adults and kids while delivering balanced nutrition in every bite.
  • Minimal Cooking Skills Required: Straightforward technique makes this recipe accessible for beginner cooks, with simple steps that guarantee a delicious result even for kitchen novices.
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Creamy Chicken Spinach Skillet Lasagna Recipe

Creamy Chicken Spinach Skillet Lasagna Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 43-50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Creamy chicken spinach skillet lasagna brings comfort and elegance to weeknight dinners with its rich, layered flavors. Melted cheese, tender chicken, and wilted spinach create a one-pan wonder that promises delicious satisfaction and minimal cleanup for hungry families.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Cheese:

  • 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, grated
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Main Ingredients:

  • 10 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
  • 2 cups baby spinach leaves
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream

Seasonings and Oils:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Sear chicken breasts in olive oil over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper until one side turns golden brown.
  2. Pour chicken broth into the skillet, creating a simmering liquid. Cover and cook chicken for 10-15 minutes until completely cooked through and no pink remains.
  3. Transfer chicken to a cutting board and shred into tender, bite-sized pieces using two forks.
  4. Return skillet to heat and pour heavy cream, mixing in dried basil and garlic powder. Add broken lasagna noodles, ensuring complete sauce coverage.
  5. Simmer noodles, covered, for approximately 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking until noodles become tender.
  6. Incorporate half the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, shredded chicken, and fresh spinach into the skillet. Season with additional salt and pepper to enhance flavors.
  7. Gently stir until spinach wilts and ingredients blend seamlessly. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese.
  8. Remove from heat, cover, and let rest for 5 minutes to allow cheese to melt completely and flavors to meld.
  9. Serve immediately, optionally garnishing with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs for added visual appeal and taste complexity.

Notes

  • Chicken Selection: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the most tender and quick-cooking results, ensuring even browning and easy shredding.
  • Noodle Hack: Break lasagna noodles into smaller pieces before cooking to create a more rustic, one-pan meal that’s easier to serve and eat.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives to make this dish suitable for lactose-intolerant or vegan diets.
  • Meal Prep Tip: This skillet lasagna can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a convenient weeknight dinner option that tastes even better the next day.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 33-40 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 485 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 710 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 39 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg
Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Content Specialist & Home Cooking Enthusiast

Expertise

  • Making healthy, comforting meals that fit into real-life schedules
  • Planning balanced, single-serving meals for individuals and small families
  • Writing clear, practical food content with a focus on wellness and ease
  • Using seasonal ingredients to bring variety and freshness to everyday meals

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College – Asheville, NC

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Trained in the basics of professional cooking, with a strong focus on home-style meals, seasonal recipe development, and time-saving kitchen techniques for everyday use.

American Fitness Professionals & Associates – Online

  • Program: Nutrition and Wellness Consultant Certification
  • Focus: Studied how to make healthy eating simple, enjoyable, and accessible

Sarah’s passion for food was sparked by weekend trips to the farmers’ market and her belief that healthy meals should never feel boring.
After earning her culinary diploma and becoming a certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, she set out to help others fall in love with simple, wholesome cooking.
She’s all about celebrating the small wins in the kitchen: a colorful yogurt bowl, a new twist on a classic dish, or a homemade snack that feels just a little extra special.
Outside the kitchen, Sarah is a gardener at heart, a yoga enthusiast, and a believer that fresh herbs can brighten any meal, and any day.

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