White Chicken Caprese Lasagna might just be the answer to your weeknight dinner prayers—especially if you’re tired of the same old heavy, sauce-laden lasagnas that leave you feeling sluggish instead of satisfied.
Let me tell you a story. Last summer, during one of my travels through Italy, I found myself in a tiny trattoria in Tuscany where the nonna behind the counter served me the most incredible caprese salad I’d ever tasted. The tomatoes were sun-warmed perfection, the basil so fragrant it seemed to dance in the air, and the mozzarella… oh, that creamy, pillowy mozzarella! As I savored every bite, I thought, “What if I could capture this magic in a hearty, comforting lasagna?”
That’s exactly what this White Chicken Caprese Lasagna recipe delivers—all the fresh, vibrant flavors of a classic caprese salad transformed into a soul-warming, crowd-pleasing casserole that’ll have your family asking for seconds (and thirds!).
As someone who’s spent years perfecting comfort food classics in both professional kitchens and my own home, I can promise you this: this recipe strikes the perfect balance between elegant flavors and cozy satisfaction. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right ingredients to pro assembly tips, plus I’ve included some fantastic variations to make this dish your own.
Why This White Chicken Caprese Lasagna Recipe Works
This isn’t just another lasagna—it’s a complete game-changer for several reasons:
• Uses affordable, accessible ingredients: Rotisserie chicken, canned artichokes, and basic pantry staples make this budget-friendly without sacrificing flavor • Prep time is surprisingly quick: Most components can be assembled in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights • Incredibly versatile: Perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or when you want to impress dinner guests without the stress • Lighter than traditional lasagna: The white sauce base feels indulgent but won’t leave you in a food coma • Make-ahead friendly: Assemble today, bake tomorrow—ideal for entertaining or weekly meal planning
Choosing the Right Ingredients for White Chicken Caprese Lasagna
Best Chicken Options for This Recipe
The beauty of this White Chicken Caprese Lasagna lies in its flexibility with chicken choices:
Rotisserie Chicken (my top pick): Already seasoned, incredibly tender, and saves you 45 minutes of cooking time. Look for birds with golden, crispy skin—that’s a sign of proper roasting and maximum flavor.
Poached Chicken Breasts: If you prefer to cook your own, gently poach breasts in seasoned broth. This keeps them moist and allows you to control the salt content.
Chicken Thighs: For the juiciest results, use boneless, skinless thighs. They’re more forgiving than breasts and add rich flavor to the dish.
Buying Tips
When selecting your ingredients, here’s what to look for:
- Fresh mozzarella slices: Choose whole milk varieties for the creamiest melt
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Oil-packed varieties add more flavor than dried ones
- Fresh basil: Bright green leaves without dark spots—avoid wilted or yellowing herbs
- Quality artichoke hearts: Look for firm, meaty pieces in brine rather than oil for this recipe
Smart Substitutions
Don’t have all the ingredients? No problem:
- Swap artichoke hearts for roasted red peppers if you’re not an artichoke fan
- Use Greek yogurt mixed with cream cheese instead of straight cream cheese for a tangier profile
- Fresh spinach works beautifully in place of sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor profile
Ingredients & Prep for White Chicken Caprese Lasagna
Essential Meat Prep
Chicken Preparation: If using rotisserie chicken, remove all skin and bones, then shred into bite-sized pieces. Don’t make them too small—you want substantial chunks that won’t disappear during baking.
Pro tip: Save that rotisserie chicken carcass! Toss it in your freezer for future stock-making adventures.
The Magic White Sauce Base
The secret to this White Chicken Caprese Lasagna recipe is the creamy, herb-infused white sauce:
Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 12 ounces low-fat cream cheese, room temperature (this is crucial—cold cream cheese will create lumps!)
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic
- Fresh basil (reserve half for the sauce, half for the chicken mixture)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Marinating Time: Let your chicken mixture sit for 15-20 minutes after combining with half the cream sauce. This allows all those Mediterranean flavors to meld beautifully.
Essential Pantry Staples
Keep these basics on hand for lasagna success:
- High-quality olive oil for drizzling
- Freshly grated Parmesan (pre-grated works, but fresh tastes infinitely better)
- No-boil lasagna noodles can be substituted if you prefer—just add 10 minutes to the baking time
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for White Chicken Caprese Lasagna
Pre-Cooking Prep for White Chicken Caprese Lasagna
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and set out your 9×13-inch baking dish
- Prepare all ingredients before you start assembling—this dish comes together quickly once you begin
- Bring cream cheese to room temperature (microwave for 15-20 seconds if needed, but don’t overheat!)
Assembly Method for White Chicken Caprese Lasagna
Layer 1 – The Foundation: Spread half of the plain cream cheese mixture across the bottom of your baking dish. This prevents the noodles from sticking and adds richness to every bite.
Layer 2 – First Noodle Layer: Lay 3 cooked lasagna noodles over the cream sauce. They should fit snugly but not overlap significantly.
Layer 3 – The Star Filling: Spread one-third of your chicken mixture evenly over the noodles. Don’t pack it down—let it stay light and airy.
Repeat the Magic: Continue this pattern (noodles, then chicken mixture) two more times. You should end with a final layer of noodles on top.
Final Assembly Check for White Chicken Caprese Lasagna
The Crowning Glory:
- Spread the remaining plain cream cheese mixture over the top noodle layer
- Arrange those beautiful mozzarella slices in neat rows of three
- Sprinkle remaining shredded mozzarella over everything
- Finish with a flourish of fresh basil
Doneness Check for White Chicken Caprese Lasagna
Perfect Timing: Bake for exactly 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when:
- The edges are bubbling gently
- The cheese on top is golden and melted
- A knife inserted in the center comes out hot
Resting for White Chicken Caprese Lasagna
The hardest part: Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting. I know it smells incredible, but this resting time allows the layers to set properly, ensuring clean, beautiful slices.
Pro Tips for Perfect White Chicken Caprese Lasagna
Avoiding Common Mistakes with White Chicken Caprese Lasagna
Don’t Skip the Room Temperature Step: Cold cream cheese will never blend smoothly, no matter how long you beat it. Plan ahead!
Avoid Watery Results: If your artichoke hearts seem particularly wet, pat them dry with paper towels before chopping. Excess moisture can make your lasagna soggy.
Layer with Love: Don’t rush the assembly. Take time to spread each layer evenly—it makes a difference in both appearance and taste.
Essential Tool Recommendations for White Chicken Caprese Lasagna
Hand Mixer: Crucial for achieving that silky cream cheese base. A whisk can work, but it’s much more effort.
Large Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two—one for the chicken mixture, one for the cream sauce.
Offset Spatula: Makes spreading those cream cheese layers infinitely easier and more professional-looking.
Storage & Reheating for White Chicken Caprese Lasagna
Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble completely, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add 10 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Freezer-Friendly: Wrap assembled (but unbaked) lasagna in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
Reheating: Individual portions reheat beautifully in the microwave (1-2 minutes on medium power). For larger portions, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven for 15-20 minutes.
Flavor Variations for White Chicken Caprese Lasagna
Mediterranean Twist for White Chicken Caprese Lasagna
Greek-Inspired: Add crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives to the chicken mixture. Substitute fresh oregano for half the basil.
Tuscany Dreams: Include chopped roasted red peppers and a handful of toasted pine nuts for extra texture and flavor.
Spicy Kick for White Chicken Caprese Lasagna
Italian Heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture and include some chopped pepperoni with the chicken.
Southwestern Fusion: Mix in diced green chiles and use Monterey Jack instead of mozzarella for a completely different but delicious direction.
Dietary-Friendly Options for White Chicken Caprese Lasagna
| Dietary Need | Substitution | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Keto/Low-Carb | Replace noodles with thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant | Pre-salt and drain vegetable slices for 30 minutes |
| Gluten-Free | Use gluten-free lasagna noodles | Cook according to package directions |
| Dairy-Free | Cashew cream + nutritional yeast for cheese | Soak cashews for 4 hours before blending |
| Lower Fat | Use light cream cheese and part-skim mozzarella | May be slightly less creamy but still delicious |
| Vegetarian | Omit chicken, double the artichokes, add mushrooms | Sauté mushrooms first to remove excess moisture |
Serving Suggestions for White Chicken Caprese Lasagna
This White Chicken Caprese Lasagna pairs beautifully with:
Perfect Side Dishes:
- Simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness
- Roasted asparagus or broccolini adds color and fresh flavor
- Garlic bread because… well, it’s lasagna!
Wine & Beverage Pairings:
- Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc: The acidity complements the creamy sauce perfectly
- Light Chianti: If you prefer red wine, choose something that won’t overpower the delicate flavors
- Sparkling water with lemon: A refreshing non-alcoholic option that cleanses the palate
FAQs About White Chicken Caprese Lasagna
Can I use frozen chicken for this White Chicken Caprese Lasagna recipe? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it very dry before cooking. Frozen chicken can retain more moisture, so proper drying prevents a watery lasagna.
How do I fix overcooked White Chicken Caprese Lasagna? If the top gets too brown before the center is heated through, tent with foil for the remaining cooking time. For future batches, consider starting with foil on and removing it for the last 10 minutes.
Is this White Chicken Caprese Lasagna recipe safe for pregnant women? Yes! All ingredients are fully cooked, and the cream cheese is pasteurized. Just ensure your rotisserie chicken is fresh and properly heated through during baking.
Can I make individual portions of White Chicken Caprese Lasagna? Definitely! Use ramekins or small baking dishes and reduce the cooking time to 15-20 minutes. Perfect for portion control or gift-giving.
What’s the best way to cut clean slices of White Chicken Caprese Lasagna? Use a sharp, thin knife and wipe it clean between cuts. A serrated knife can also work well for getting through all those layers without dragging.
Conclusion
There you have it—your complete guide to creating the most incredible White Chicken Caprese Lasagna that’ll have your kitchen smelling like a little slice of Italian heaven! This recipe has become one of my absolute favorites to share because it perfectly embodies what I love most about cooking: taking simple, quality ingredients and transforming them into something that brings people together around the table.
Fire up that oven and make this tonight! I promise you won’t regret it. The combination of tender chicken, creamy white sauce, and those classic caprese flavors creates pure comfort food magic.
Join the thousands of home cooks who’ve already fallen in love with this recipe! I’d love to hear about your experience—tag me on social media or drop a comment below with your favorite variations.
Ready for your next culinary adventure? Try my Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken Breasts or dive into my Creamy Tuscan Pasta Collection for more Italian-inspired comfort food that’ll make any night feel special.
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends or save it for later!
I’d love to see your unique twist—feel free to post your photos on Pinterest!
Happy cooking, friends! – Emeli
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White Chicken Caprese Lasagna Recipe: Ultimate 7-Layer Comfort
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Description
This tasty pasta dish is inspired by two favorites– lasagna and caprese salad. Combining the two with succulent chicken makes the best white chicken lasagna!
Ingredients
3 cups cooked and shredded chicken (we used rotisserie)
14 ounces artichoke hearts drained and chopped (1 can)
½ cup grated Parmesan Cheese
8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese divided
¼ cup Chopped fresh basil divided
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped, drained, and divided
12 ounces low-fat cream cheese room temperature (1½ bricks)
1 cup half-and-half
1 teaspoon minced garlic
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
12 ounces cooked lasagna noodles (1 box)
12 slices whole milk mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F. Set out a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, combine all of the chicken, artichokes, and Parmesan cheese, along with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, half of the basil, and all of the tomatoes. Set aside.
3 cups cooked and shredded chicken,14 ounces artichoke hearts,½ cup grated Parmesan Cheese,8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese,¼ cup Chopped fresh basil,½ cup sun-dried tomatoes
In a separate bowl, using a hand mixer, beat the cream cheese, half-and-half, garlic, and salt and pepper to taste until well combined. Using a spoon, stir in the remaining half of the basil. Set half of the cream cheese mixture aside and stir the remaining half in with the chicken mixture.
12 ounces low-fat cream cheese,1 cup half-and-half,1 teaspoon minced garlic,Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Take half of the plain cream cheese mixture (half of the part without the chicken) and spread it into the 9×13 baking dish, covering the bottom. Lay 3 cooked lasagna noodles on top and then top with one-third of the chicken mixture. Repeat the noodles and chicken mixture two more times, ending with a noodle layer.
12 ounces cooked lasagna noodles
Top with the last half of the plain cream cheese mixture.
Place the whole milk mozzarella slices on top in rows of three, like shown.
12 slices whole milk mozzarella cheeseSprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella over everything, and then top with more basil if desired.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until heated through. Let cool for at least 10 minutes, then slice and serve.
Notes
- sing a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken in this recipe makes it that much easier. But if you want to start with raw chicken, just be sure to cook it fully and then shred it up.
- Cream cheese is the base of the cheesy layer, and it adds the perfect flavor. Plus it’s so creamy, which is what makes this white lasagna so irresistible.
- Prep Time: 20minutes
- Cook Time: 25minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 549kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 124mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 134mg
Keywords: White Chicken Caprese Lasagna Recipe