If you love lasagna but want a simpler, hands-off version, this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Lasagna is the answer. With layers of tender shredded chicken, creamy ricotta filling, mozzarella, and lasagna noodles, it’s a comforting dinner that practically cooks itself. The creamy sauce coats each bite, making it rich and satisfying without the need for constant oven babysitting.
Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy Sunday dinners, this crockpot version of lasagna keeps things easy while still delivering big flavors.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
- 1 cup cottage cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 9–12 lasagna noodles (uncooked, regular or no-boil)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Make the Cheese Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- In another bowl, stir together Alfredo sauce and chicken broth until smooth.
Step 3: Layer the Lasagna
- Spray the slow cooker with nonstick spray. Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom. Add a layer of noodles (break to fit), then spread some ricotta mixture, chicken, spinach (if using), sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers until ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 4: Cook
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2 ½–3 hours, until noodles are tender.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Let the lasagna sit for 15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Variation
- Buffalo Chicken Lasagna: Add 1/4 cup buffalo sauce to the Alfredo mixture.
- Veggie-Packed Version: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers between layers.
- Spicy Twist: Use pepper jack cheese for a kick.
- Pesto Flavor: Stir a few tablespoons of pesto into the Alfredo sauce.
Cooking Notes
- If using regular lasagna noodles, they will cook just fine in the slow cooker—no need to boil first.
- Do not overcook or the noodles may get mushy.
- For a crispier top, transfer lasagna to a baking dish and broil for 3–4 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread and a green salad for a full meal.
- Pair with roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
- Enjoy with a glass of white wine or iced tea for balance.
Tips
- Shred your own cheese for creamier melting.
- Use rotisserie chicken to cut down on prep time.
- To make ahead, assemble in the slow cooker insert, refrigerate overnight, then cook the next day.
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 4–5 hours (low) or 2.5–3 hours (high)
- Total Time: ~5 hours 20 minutes
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx. 8 servings)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 32g
- Carbs: 27g
- Fat: 19g
- Sodium: 760mg
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this with uncooked chicken?
- Yes, but shred it before layering. Cooking raw chicken directly in the lasagna may release too much liquid.
Q2: Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes, freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Q3: Can I use a different sauce instead of Alfredo?
- Yes! Cream of chicken soup mixed with broth or even marinara sauce works if you prefer red lasagna.
Q4: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual servings.
Q5: Can I double the recipe?
- Yes, if your slow cooker is large enough (6–7 qt). Cooking time may increase slightly.
Conclusion
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Lasagna is a comforting, hands-off recipe that delivers all the cheesy, layered goodness of traditional lasagna with half the effort. Perfect for busy families, potlucks, or even holidays, it’s creamy, flavorful, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.