Description
This Leftover Chicken Dinner transforms cooked chicken into a delicious baked rolled lasagna dish filled with creamy ricotta and a blend of cheeses, flavored with garlic and Italian seasoning, then baked in marinara sauce until bubbly and golden. Perfect for using leftover chicken in a comforting, family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded (divided: 1 cup for filling, 1/2 cup for topping)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Others
- 8 cooked lasagna noodles
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare filling: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, the egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth and well mixed.
- Cook noodles: Prepare the lasagna noodles following the package instructions; once cooked, lay them flat on a clean surface to cool and dry before assembling.
- Assemble rolls: Spoon approximately 1/4 cup of the chicken and cheese filling onto each cooked noodle, then gently roll it up and place the rolls seam-side down in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish to keep them intact while baking.
- Add sauce and cheese: Evenly pour the marinara sauce over the rolled noodles, then sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese on top for a cheesy, golden finish.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes; then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
- Rest and garnish: Allow the baked rolls to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh, vibrant garnish.
Notes
- Make sure to not overfill the noodles to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
- Use cooked chicken from a rotisserie or leftover roasted chicken for best flavor and ease.
- Lasagna noodles can be boiled a day ahead and refrigerated to save time.
- Substitute marinara sauce with your favorite tomato sauce or homemade sauce if preferred.
- Leftovers keep well for 2-3 days in the refrigerator and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
