Cooking Jamie Oliver’s chicken lasagna is an exciting and rewarding experience that brings rich flavors to your kitchen.
Using fresh rosemary and oregano, you’ll create a hearty ragù that’s both aromatic and flavorful.
You might find that chopping the chicken in a food processor adds a perfect texture to the dish.
Don’t forget to carefully stir the bechamel sauce to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
It’s a great dish with mushrooms adding depth, making it a comforting meal any day of the week.
How to Make Jamie Oliver Chicken Lasagna
Ingredients
- 12 Lasagne Sheets
- 2 cups Chicken Breast (cooked and shredded)
- 3 cups Mushrooms (sliced)
- 3 cloves Garlic (finely sliced)
- 1 Onion (chopped)
- 4 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 cup Chicken Stock
- 3 cups Milk
- 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1/4 cup Butter
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a large baking dish.
In a skillet, heat olive oil on medium and sauté garlic, onion, and mushrooms until soft.
Step 2:
Add shredded chicken to the skillet and pour in the chicken stock.
Let it simmer until the mixture is well combined and stock is mostly absorbed.
Step 3:
For the béchamel, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, stir in flour, then gradually add milk, whisking continuously until thick.
Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4:
In your baking dish, spread a layer of the chicken mixture, top with béchamel, and then layer with lasagna sheets.
Repeat the layering process until the ingredients are used.
Top with béchamel and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Step 5:
Bake for about 30-35 minutes until golden and bubbling.
Allow the lasagna to cool slightly before serving.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Use Fresh Pasta
Fresh pasta sheets can enhance the texture of your lasagna, giving it a wonderfully authentic taste.
If you can, make your own or find fresh sheets at the store.
Cooking the Sauce
Ensure you whisk the béchamel sauce thoroughly as it cooks to avoid lumps and to achieve a smooth consistency that will cover your layers perfectly.
Layering Techniques
Make sure each pasta sheet is fully covered with fillings and sauces to keep them from drying out during baking.
This also ensures each bite has a perfect blend of flavor.
Roasting Chicken
For added flavor, consider roasting the chicken with your favorite herbs and spices before shredding it for the filling.
This step can elevate the flavor profile of the chicken mixture dramatically.
Storing Leftovers
This lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheat in the oven to retain the texture and taste of the dish!
What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Chicken Lasagne
Garlic Bread
You can’t go wrong with a side of garlic bread when serving chicken lasagna. Warm, crusty bread with a hint of garlic perfectly complements the rich flavors of lasagna.
You can either bake your own or grab a delicious loaf from your local bakery. A bit of melted butter and chopped parsley makes it extra special.
Italian Salad
A fresh Italian salad brings a refreshing contrast to the hearty lasagna. Toss together some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and black olives.
Add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette, and your salad is ready to go! The crispness will enhance your meal’s flavors.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables add a warm and hearty touch to your dinner. Try roasting some seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots.
A hint of olive oil, salt, and pepper is all you need for a simple yet irresistible side dish.
Lemon and Herb Couscous
For something a bit different, lemon and herb couscous is a fantastic option!
Light and fluffy, this side dish adds a delightful zesty note to your meal.
Mix in some chopped herbs like parsley and mint for added flavor, and you’ll have a side dish worth savoring.
Caprese Skewers
Caprese skewers are a fun and easy addition to your meal. Simply alternate cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves on small skewers.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a finishing touch, and you’ve got a fresh and vibrant side dish that pairs wonderfully with chicken lasagna.
Variations and Substitutions
Try swapping chicken thighs with ground turkey if you seek a leaner option.
The texture is similar, and the flavor pairs wonderfully with the herb flavors found in the recipe.
Another great protein to consider is shredded rotisserie chicken. This alternative saves time on cooking, especially on busy weeknights.
Dairy Alternatives
You can use almond milk or oat milk in the béchamel sauce if you’re going for a dairy-free option.
These alternatives create a creamy texture without relying on traditional dairy.
Vegetable Addition
Spinach or zucchini add an extra layer of flavor and nutrients to your lasagna. Spinach blends quite nicely with the creaminess of the sauce.
Zucchini can be sliced thinly and layered for added texture, which provides a subtle crunch to each bite.
Cheese Choices
Replace mozzarella with vegan cheese for a plant-based version of this dish. Some vegan cheeses melt and taste great, offering a similar experience without the dairy.
How to Store Leftover Jamie Oliver Chicken Lasagne
Storing your leftover Jamie Oliver chicken lasagna ensures it stays fresh and ready for another delicious meal!
Cool Before Storing
First, allow the lasagna to cool to room temperature before storing it.
This step prevents moisture from building up in your storage container.
Use Airtight Containers
Transfer your leftover lasagna into an airtight container.
If you don’t have one, wrapping it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap can also work.
Refrigerating and Freezing
Store your lasagna in the fridge if you plan to enjoy it within three days.
For extended storage, pop it into the freezer where it can last for up to three months.
Label your container with the date it was stored!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the Chicken
You want your chicken to stay juicy and tender, so avoid overcooking it.
Sauté the pieces just until they’re browned lightly.
Add them later in the cooking process to soak up all the flavors.
Lumpy Sauce
Creating a smooth sauce is essential for a lasagna that’s enjoyable to eat.
Gradually whisk your milk into the roux to achieve a creamy consistency without lumps.
Take your time and stir well for best results!
Skipping Resting Time
After pulling your lasagna out of the oven, resist the urge to serve it immediately.
Letting it rest for about 10 minutes will allow it to set and be easier to slice.
This simple step makes a big difference for serving!
Jamie Oliver Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 Lasagna Sheets
- 2 cups Chicken Breast cooked and shredded
- 3 cups Mushrooms sliced
- 3 cloves Garlic finely sliced
- 1 Onion chopped
- 4 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 cup Chicken Stock
- 3 cups Milk
- 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1/4 cup Butter
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese grated
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a large baking dish.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil on medium and sauté garlic, onion, and mushrooms until soft.
- Add shredded chicken to the skillet and pour in the chicken stock.
- Let it simmer until the mixture is well combined and stock is mostly absorbed.
- For the béchamel, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, stir in flour, then gradually add milk, whisking continuously until thick.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- In your baking dish, spread a layer of the chicken mixture, top with béchamel, and then layer with lasagna sheets.
- Repeat the layering process until ingredients are used.
- Top with béchamel and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for about 30-35 minutes until golden and bubbling.
- Allow the lasagna to cool slightly before serving.