LEMON GARLIC CHICKEN LASAGNA ROLL-UPS

Description

These Lemon Garlic Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups are a fresh, zesty twist on the classic Italian favorite. Instead of layering, tender lasagna noodles are rolled around a creamy lemon-garlic chicken filling, topped with a light béchamel sauce, sprinkled with cheese, and baked to golden perfection. The lemon adds brightness, the garlic brings depth, and the creamy texture ties it all together. Perfect for dinner parties, family gatherings, or a make-ahead weekday meal.

📝 Ingredients for LEMON GARLIC CHICKEN LASAGNA ROLL-UPS

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded (about 2 large breasts)

• 8 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tbsp lemon zest (from 1–2 lemons)

• 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

• ½ cup chicken broth

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Topping:

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• Extra parsley or lemon slices (for garnish)

🍳 Instructions

1. Cook Noodles

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to boil, cook lasagna noodles until just al dente. Drain and lay flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare Filling

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

3. Make Sauce

   • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk and chicken broth, stirring until smooth and slightly thickened.

   • Add garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted. Remove from heat.

4. Assemble Roll-Ups

   • Spread 2 tablespoons of filling onto each lasagna noodle. Roll up gently and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.

5. Add Sauce & Cheese

   • Pour the sauce evenly over the roll-ups. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.

6. Bake

   • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.

7. Serve

   • Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving.

💡 Notes

• You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.

• Adjust lemon juice to taste—more for tang, less for subtlety.

• Sauce should be slightly thick so it coats the roll-ups but not too thick to dry out in the oven.

• If making ahead, assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

🔑 Tips

• Prevent Overcooking Noodles: Slightly undercook so they don’t break when rolling.

• Cheese Swap: Try Asiago or Fontina for a richer flavor.

• Extra Creaminess: Stir a spoon of cream cheese into the filling.

• Freezer-Friendly: Wrap tightly in foil before baking and freeze for up to 2 months.

🍽 Servings

• Serves: 4 people

• Yield: 8 roll-ups (2 per serving)

📊 Nutritional Info (per serving, 2 roll-ups)

• Calories: ~460 kcal

• Protein: 33g

• Carbohydrates: 31g

• Fat: 20g

• Saturated Fat: 10g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 5g

• Sodium: 750mg

🌿 Benefits

• Protein-Rich: Great for muscle repair and satiety.

• Vitamin C Boost: Lemon provides immune-supporting antioxidants.

• Calcium Source: Cheese and milk contribute to strong bones.

• Comfort with Freshness: Combines cozy lasagna flavors with a light citrus twist.

❓ Q&A

Q: Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to soak them in hot water until pliable before rolling.

Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Swap chicken with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, or microwave in short bursts.

Q: Can I add spinach to the filling?
A: Yes, chopped fresh spinach works beautifully for extra greens.