Lasagna with chicken breast, mushrooms, and Bechamel sauce

Chicken Breast, Mushrooms, and Bechamel Sauce Lasagna – A Delicacy for Your Evening

Welcome to the savory world of lasagna! This chicken breast, mushroom, and Bechamel sauce lasagna recipe is perfect for a comforting dinner. With a generous layer of delicious filling and a creamy sauce, this dish will surely become your favorite. So, get ready to discover how to transform simple ingredients into a memorable meal!

Preparation time:
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour
- Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 10 lasagna sheets
- 500 g chicken breast (diced)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 1 jar of mushrooms (about 400 g, chopped)
- ½ clove garlic (minced)
- ½ cup dry white wine
- 250 g tomato sauce
- 150 g smoked cheese (grated)
- 75 g butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 500 ml milk
- 1 egg
- 75 g Parmesan cheese (grated)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Some tips about ingredients:
- Chicken breast: Opt for fresh, skinless chicken breast for a tender texture. You can also use leftover cooked chicken from a previous meal.
- Mushrooms: If you prefer, you can use fresh mushrooms instead of canned ones. Champignon or porcini mushrooms provide a special flavor.
- White wine: Choose a quality wine, as it will add depth to the flavors. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, you can replace the wine with water or chicken broth.
- Smoked cheese: This adds a delicious smoky flavor to the lasagna. You can also experiment with mozzarella cheese for a milder taste.

The History of Lasagna
Lasagna is an iconic dish with a long history that dates back to ancient times. Initially, thin sheets of dough were filled with various ingredients, and today, the combinations are limitless. This recipe stands out for its simplicity and versatility, making it suitable for any occasion, from family dinners to parties with friends.

Preparation Techniques:
1. Preparing the filling: Start by sautéing the onion and garlic in a large pan with a little oil. Add the diced chicken breast and cook for 10 minutes until lightly browned. Then, add the mushrooms and continue to cook for another 5 minutes. Pour in the wine and let it simmer for a few minutes to evaporate the alcohol. Add the tomato sauce, salt, and pepper, then let it simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Preparing the Bechamel sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove the saucepan from heat and add the flour, stirring quickly to avoid lumps. Put it back on the heat and gradually pour in the milk, stirring constantly. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat, add salt, pepper, Parmesan cheese, and the beaten egg, mixing well until smooth.

3. Assembling the lasagna: In a greased and floured baking dish, place a layer of lasagna sheets. Add a layer of filling with chicken and mushrooms, followed by a layer of Bechamel sauce. Continue alternating the lasagna sheets with the filling until you run out of ingredients, finishing with a layer of Bechamel sauce. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top.

4. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the lasagna in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until nicely browned on top. Let it cool slightly before cutting.

Possible Variations:
- Vegetarian: You can replace the chicken breast with vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, or spinach for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Spicy: Add some red peppercorns or chili flakes to the filling for an extra kick of flavor and spice.

Helpful Tips:
- Ensure that the lasagna sheets are covered with sauce so they soften evenly during baking.
- You can serve the lasagna with a fresh arugula and cherry tomato salad, drizzled with olive oil, for a contrast of textures and flavors.
- Lasagna can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it ideal for planned meals.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
This lasagna contains approximately 450 calories per serving, offering a combination of protein from the chicken breast, carbohydrates from the lasagna sheets, and healthy fats from the Bechamel sauce. It is a meal that combines flavor with essential nutrients, perfect for a comforting dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use whole wheat lasagna sheets? Yes, whole wheat sheets are an excellent nutritious option.
- Can lasagna be frozen? Absolutely! Lasagna can be frozen before or after baking, making it ideal for quick meals.

Now that you know how to prepare this delicious chicken breast, mushroom, and Bechamel sauce lasagna, all that's left is to get cooking! A meal full of flavors and comfort awaits you, and your family and friends will be delighted with your choice. Happy cooking!