Mexican Chicken Lasagne
A flavorful Mexican-inspired lasagne layered with spicy chicken, green chiles, and cheeses, perfect for satisfying family dinners or entertaining guests craving bold flavors.
Ingredients
- 16 oz. jar mild salsa
- 16 oz. jar medium salsa ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. ground black pepper ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. chili powder ⓘ
- 1 tsp. ground cumin ⓘ
- 2 cloves garlic, minced ⓘ
- 10 oz. package dry lasagne noodles ⓘ
- 2 c. nonfat cottage cheese
- 2 eggs ⓘ
- 1/3 c. chopped fresh parsley ⓘ
- 4 oz. can diced green chiles ⓘ
- 4 c. diced cooked chicken ⓘ
- 1 c. shredded sharp cheddar cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Pour both jars of salsa into a large non-aluminum saucepan. Add the black pepper, chili powder, cumin, and minced garlic.
- Bring to a boil; reduce the heat and simmer uncovered, stirring often, until the sauce is reduced to 4 cups, about 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the lasagne noodles according to package directions and drain well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting part of the cottage cheese with ricotta. You can also use whole wheat lasagne noodles for a healthier option. If you prefer more heat, try adding diced jalapeños or swapping out the mild salsa for a spicier variety. This dish is versatile, so feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Mexican Chicken Lasagne with a side of Pat'S Favorite Spanish Rice for a complete meal. A fresh green salad with lime vinaigrette also complements the dish nicely. For an extra kick, top with sour cream or guacamole. This hearty meal is perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover to retain moisture. This helps maintain the flavors and texture of the lasagne.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Chicken Lasagne contains roughly 1066 calories, with 40g protein, 131g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (82% of the Daily Value), and protein (80% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1733mg per serving (75% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! This lasagne works well with ground turkey or beef if you prefer. Just make sure to cook the meat thoroughly before adding it to the sauce. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with black beans or lentils.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagne a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the foil and follow the baking instructions. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier.
What can I do with leftover salsa?
Leftover salsa can be used in various ways! It’s great as a dip for tortilla chips, a topping for tacos, or even stirred into scrambled eggs for breakfast. You can also add it to soups or stews for added flavor, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).