Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Lasagne is a comforting and hearty twist on the classic lasagne, substituting traditional beef or pork with tender chicken. Layered with creamy white sauce, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese, this lasagne offers a lighter yet still satisfying option for lasagne lovers. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish combines flavors that are both comforting and packed with Italian-inspired goodness.
What is Jamie Oliver Chicken Lasagne?
Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Lasagne is a delightful alternative to the classic lasagne. The recipe layers tender chicken, fresh vegetables, a rich tomato sauce, and a creamy béchamel sauce between sheets of lasagne. Finished with melted cheese, this dish brings together savory and comforting flavors while offering a unique take on a beloved classic.
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Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Healthier twist: Chicken provides a leaner protein option than traditional beef lasagne.
- Comfort food: Creamy sauce and cheese make this a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Great for meal prep: Make it ahead of time, and the flavors will develop even more.
- Family-friendly: A dish that kids and adults alike will love.
- Freezes well: Ideal for leftovers or batch cooking, this lasagne can be easily frozen and reheated.
Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Chicken Lasagne
For the Chicken Filling:
- Chicken breasts (500g / 1 lb): Diced into bite-sized pieces.
- Onion (1 large): Finely chopped, adds sweetness and flavor.
- Garlic cloves (3): Minced, for aromatic depth.
- Carrot (1 large): Diced, for texture and nutrition.
- Canned tomatoes (400g / 14 oz): Provides a rich tomato base.
- Tomato paste (2 tbsp): Intensifies the tomato flavor.
- Fresh basil (a handful): Torn, for freshness and aroma.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): For sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
For the Béchamel (White Sauce):
- Butter (50g / ¼ cup): For starting the roux.
- Flour (50g / ¼ cup): Helps thicken the sauce.
- Milk (500ml / 2 cups): Adds creaminess to the sauce.
- Nutmeg (a pinch): Adds warmth and depth to the sauce.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
For Assembling:
- Lasagne sheets (12 sheets): Fresh or pre-cooked, depending on your preference.
- Grated mozzarella (150g / 1 ½ cups): Melts into a gooey, golden topping.
- Grated Parmesan (50g / ½ cup): Adds richness and a nutty flavor to the top layer.
Equipment
- Large frying pan or skillet
- Medium saucepan for the béchamel sauce
- Baking dish (9×13 inch)
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and chopping board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Chicken Lasagne
1. Prepare the Chicken Filling:
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and diced carrot. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and golden.
- Cook the chicken: Add the diced chicken to the pan and cook for 5-6 minutes, until lightly browned.
- Add tomatoes and simmer: Stir in the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, and torn basil. Season with salt and pepper, and let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes until the sauce thickens.
2. Make the Béchamel Sauce:
- Start the roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.
- Add the milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Set aside: Once thickened, remove from heat and set aside.
3. Assemble the Lasagne:
- Layer the ingredients: In a large baking dish, start with a layer of the chicken filling, followed by a layer of béchamel sauce. Place lasagne sheets on top, then repeat the process, finishing with a final layer of béchamel sauce.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle the grated mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top of the lasagne.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the lasagne for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
4. Serve:
- Allow the lasagne to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy with a side salad or garlic bread.
What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver Chicken Lasagne
- Green salad: A fresh, light salad balances the richness of the lasagne.
- Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- Roasted vegetables: Serve with roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for extra veggies.
- Steamed broccoli: A simple and healthy side dish to accompany the hearty lasagne.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver Chicken Lasagne
- Use fresh lasagne sheets: Fresh lasagne sheets save time and ensure a tender texture.
- Don’t skip the béchamel: The creamy white sauce adds richness and prevents the lasagne from drying out.
- Let it rest: After baking, allow the lasagne to rest for 5-10 minutes to make slicing easier.
- Make ahead: You can assemble the lasagne in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freeze leftovers: Lasagne freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy it later. Store in individual portions for easy reheating.
Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver Chicken Lasagne
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free lasagne sheets and flour to make the béchamel sauce gluten-free.
- Vegetable lasagne: Swap the chicken for layers of roasted vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers.
- Spicy twist: Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken filling for a bit of heat.
- Add spinach: Stir in some fresh spinach with the chicken for added nutrients and color.
- Cheese alternatives: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or Gouda for a unique flavor profile.
Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver Chicken Lasagne
- Refrigerate leftovers: Store any leftover lasagne in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for later: Lasagne can be frozen in individual portions or as a whole. Wrap tightly in foil and store for up to 3 months.
- Label and date: Always label your containers before freezing to track freshness.
Best Practices to Reheat Jamie Oliver Chicken Lasagne
- Oven method: Reheat the lasagne in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes until fully warmed through.
- Microwave method: Reheat individual portions in the microwave on medium heat for 2-3 minutes, covered to retain moisture.
- Add moisture: When reheating, cover the lasagne with foil or a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out.
How Can I Make Jamie Oliver Chicken Lasagne Healthier?
- Use lean chicken: Opt for skinless chicken breasts or ground chicken for a leaner protein source.
- Use whole wheat lasagne sheets: Swap regular lasagne sheets for whole wheat for added fiber.
- Reduce cheese: Use a smaller amount of cheese to cut down on fat, or choose low-fat cheese options.
- Add more vegetables: Boost the nutrition by adding layers of spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the lasagne.
- Use light milk: Make the béchamel sauce with skimmed or low-fat milk to reduce calories.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 500
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
FAQs
Can I make chicken lasagne ahead of time?
Yes, chicken lasagne can be made ahead of time. Assemble the lasagne, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature, or add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I freeze chicken lasagne?
Yes, chicken lasagne freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely before freezing in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 180°C (350°F) until fully warmed through.
How can I make chicken lasagne gluten-free?
To make chicken lasagne gluten-free, simply use gluten-free lasagne sheets and replace regular flour in the béchamel sauce with a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts in chicken lasagne?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts. Thighs have a richer flavor and can provide a more tender texture. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly before adding them to the lasagne.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Lasagne offers a delicious and comforting twist on a classic dish, combining tender chicken with creamy béchamel and rich tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this dish is versatile, easy to make, and sure to please. Enjoy with your favorite sides and savor every comforting bite!
More By British Baking Recipes
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Jamie Oliver Chicken Lasagne Recipe
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 40
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Description
Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Lasagne is a delightful alternative to the classic lasagne. The recipe layers tender chicken, fresh vegetables, a rich tomato sauce, and a creamy béchamel sauce between sheets of lasagne. Finished with melted cheese, this dish brings together savory and comforting flavors while offering a unique take on a beloved classic.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Filling:
- Chicken breasts (500g / 1 lb): Diced into bite-sized pieces.
- Onion (1 large): Finely chopped, adds sweetness and flavor.
- Garlic cloves (3): Minced, for aromatic depth.
- Carrot (1 large): Diced, for texture and nutrition.
- Canned tomatoes (400g / 14 oz): Provides a rich tomato base.
- Tomato paste (2 tbsp): Intensifies the tomato flavor.
- Fresh basil (a handful): Torn, for freshness and aroma.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): For sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
For the Béchamel (White Sauce):
- Butter (50g / ¼ cup): For starting the roux.
- Flour (50g / ¼ cup): Helps thicken the sauce.
- Milk (500ml / 2 cups): Adds creaminess to the sauce.
- Nutmeg (a pinch): Adds warmth and depth to the sauce.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
For Assembling:
- Lasagne sheets (12 sheets): Fresh or pre-cooked, depending on your preference.
- Grated mozzarella (150g / 1 ½ cups): Melts into a gooey, golden topping.
- Grated Parmesan (50g / ½ cup): Adds richness and a nutty flavor to the top layer.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Filling:
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and diced carrot. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and golden.
- Cook the chicken: Add the diced chicken to the pan and cook for 5-6 minutes, until lightly browned.
- Add tomatoes and simmer: Stir in the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, and torn basil. Season with salt and pepper, and let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes until the sauce thickens.
2. Make the Béchamel Sauce:
- Start the roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.
- Add the milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Set aside: Once thickened, remove from heat and set aside.
3. Assemble the Lasagne:
- Layer the ingredients: In a large baking dish, start with a layer of the chicken filling, followed by a layer of béchamel sauce. Place lasagne sheets on top, then repeat the process, finishing with a final layer of béchamel sauce.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle the grated mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top of the lasagne.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the lasagne for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
4. Serve:
- Allow the lasagne to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy with a side salad or garlic bread.
