Microwave Fiesta Lasagne
A quick and flavorful microwave lasagne featuring tender chicken, salsa, and melty mozzarella, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with a Mexican-inspired twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine chopped cooked chicken, salsa, and chopped cilantro.
- Spread one-third of the chicken salsa mixture on the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Arrange half of the uncooked lasagne noodles on top of the sauce.
- In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese, eggs, sliced ripe olives, and diced green chilies.
- Spread half of this cheese mixture over the lasagne noodles.
- Sprinkle with one-third of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers: chicken salsa mixture, lasagne noodles, remaining cheese mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the dish with microwave-safe plastic wrap and microwave on high for 20-25 minutes, or until the lasagne is tender and bubbly.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or using a spicier salsa. If you're short on time, pre-cooked chicken can be substituted for the chopped cooked chicken. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack for added flavor. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover chicken from meals like Chicken Chili Stew.
Serving Suggestions
This lasagne pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and some warm garlic bread for a complete meal. For a Mexican twist, consider serving it with a side of refried beans or Mexican street corn. This dish is perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners, offering a hearty option that everyone will enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Microwave Fiesta Lasagne can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave on medium power in 1-minute intervals until heated through. For best texture, avoid overheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Fiesta Lasagne contains roughly 605 calories, with 26g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (458% of the Daily Value), iron (180% of the Daily Value), and calcium (87% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1360mg per serving (59% 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 other types of noodles instead of lasagne?
Yes, you can substitute lasagne noodles with other pasta types like penne or fusilli, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. If using a different pasta, ensure it's cooked until al dente before layering, as it will continue to cook in the microwave.
Can I make this lasagne vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with a variety of vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Additionally, you might want to increase the amount of cheese or add some spinach for extra flavor and nutrients, making it a delicious vegetarian alternative.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
To prepare in advance, assemble the lasagne up to the point of microwaving, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply remove the wrap and microwave as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it's chilled.
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).