Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Chicken Lasagna Recipe
When I’m craving comfort food, this Slow Cooker Chicken Lasagna recipe always hits the spot. It’s easy to throw together and lets my slow cooker do all the work, which is a lifesaver on busy days.
The combination of tender chicken, hearty veggies, and creamy cheese creates a dish that’s rich in flavor and texture. I love how it fills my home with mouthwatering aromas while it cooks, making me feel all warm inside.
Plus, it’s perfect for leftovers, so I can enjoy it again later. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Chicken Lasagna
When it comes to whipping up a delicious meal in the slow cooker, this Slow Cooker Chicken Lasagna is an absolute winner. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners or even meal prep for the week ahead.
It’s like a warm hug on a plate, and the best part is, you don’t have to babysit it while it cooks. So, let’s dig into what you’ll need to get started on this comforting culinary adventure.
Here’s a handy list of ingredients that will transform your kitchen into a cozy haven of flavors:
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs
- 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 6 ounces button mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups baby carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped leek
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 8 ounces neufchâtel cheese or cream cheese
- 8 ounces light sour cream or regular sour cream
- 2 (10 ounce) cans Rotel tomatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
Now, before you rush to the store, let’s chat about a few things. First off, you might be wondering about the chicken. Bone-in thighs are fantastic for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, boneless chicken could work too—just adjust your cooking time a bit.
And that cream cheese? It’s the secret to achieving that rich, creamy texture. You might be tempted to skip it or swap it out for something lighter, but trust me, it’s worth it for this dish.
Finally, if you’re not a fan of Rotel tomatoes or just want to customize the flavor, feel free to use plain diced tomatoes or your favorite salsa. Cooking is all about making it your own, right?
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Lasagna
Alright, let’s plunge into making this Slow Cooker Chicken Lasagna, shall we? First off, you’re going to want to grab those 4 bone-in chicken thighs and give them a sprinkle of 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning, along with a dash of salt and black pepper.
Get ready to sizzle; in a large skillet, heat up 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once that butter is nice and bubbly, toss in the chicken thighs and let them sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side. This step is essential because it seals in all that juicy flavor. Just imagine that aroma wafting through your kitchen—pure bliss.
Once your chicken is golden brown and looking fabulous, transfer it into a large crockpot.
Now, back to that skillet! Add 2 cups of chicken stock to deglaze the pan—this means scraping up all those tasty brown bits stuck to the bottom. Don’t waste any of that flavor. Season it with a little more salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of oregano.
Then, add in 8 ounces of penne pasta and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. You want it just soft enough to soak up the broth but not fully cooked, since it’s going to keep cooking in the slow cooker.
While that’s happening, layer 6 ounces of sliced button mushrooms over the chicken thighs, followed by 2 cups of baby carrots, 1/2 cup of chopped celery, and 1/2 cup of chopped leek. If you’ve ever thought about how to sneak in more veggies, this is it. They’ll soak up all that chicken goodness.
Now, take that partially cooked pasta (with the broth) and pour it over the veggies in the crockpot. Dot the top with 8 ounces of neufchâtel cheese or cream cheese for that dreamy creaminess, then add 8 ounces of sour cream (light or regular works) and two cans of Rotel tomatoes.
Cover everything with 1/2 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese, put the lid on, and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours. That’s it! Just walk away and let your slow cooker work its magic. You’ll be rewarded with a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day.
Slow Cooker Chicken Lasagna Substitutions & Variations
There are several tasty substitutions and variations you can try with this Slow Cooker Chicken Lasagna recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs.
For a lighter version, swap the cream cheese and sour cream for Greek yogurt. If you prefer a veggie-packed dish, add zucchini or spinach.
You can also replace the chicken thighs with ground turkey or plant-based protein for a different flavor profile. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.
I love experimenting with different cheeses, too; try ricotta or mozzarella for a creamier texture.
Personalize it to make it your own, and enjoy!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Lasagna
After exploring various substitutions and variations for the Slow Cooker Chicken Lasagna, you might wonder what to serve alongside it to create a complete meal.
I love pairing it with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette; it adds a revitalizing crunch. Garlic bread is another go-to for me, perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce.
If you’re feeling adventurous, a side of roasted vegetables can enhance the dish’s flavors. Don’t forget a nice glass of red wine to complement the meal!
These accompaniments really elevate the dining experience and balance out the rich lasagna. Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your Slow Cooker Chicken Lasagna, keep in mind a few tips to enhance the dish.
First, feel free to mix in your favorite veggies like spinach or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition. If you want a creamier texture, increase the amount of cream cheese or sour cream.
For a little kick, try using spicy Rotel tomatoes. Remember to adjust the seasoning to your taste, especially if you’re using homemade stock.
Finally, make sure to let it rest for a few minutes after cooking; it’ll help the flavors meld beautifully. Enjoy your delicious creation!