Creamy White Chicken Caprese Lasagna

Indulge in the rich flavors of a classic lasagna with a twist! This Creamy White Chicken Caprese Lasagna combines tender chicken, creamy ricotta, fresh tomatoes, and aromatic basil, all layered with lasagna noodles and a luscious white sauce. It’s a satisfying meal that’s low in SmartPoints for those following the Weight Watchers plan.

Ingredients:

  • 9 lasagna noodles, preferably whole wheat for added fiber
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
  • 2 cups part-skim ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 2 cups reduced-fat shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the White Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons light butter or margarine
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups skim milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Noodles:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the White Sauce:
    • In a medium saucepan, melt light butter over medium heat.
    • Stir in all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden, stirring constantly.
    • Gradually whisk in skim milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Assemble the Lasagna:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken breast with ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Layering:
    • Spread a thin layer of the white sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
    • Place 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
    • Spread half of the chicken and ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles.
    • Sprinkle with 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
    • Repeat layers: white sauce, 3 lasagna noodles, remaining chicken and ricotta mixture, and 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.
  5. Final Layer:
    • Top with remaining 3 lasagna noodles.
    • Spread the remaining white sauce over the top layer of noodles.
    • Sprinkle with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
  6. Bake:
    • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
    • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Serve:
    • Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
    • Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves if desired.

Nutrition Information (per serving – 1/8 of lasagna):

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 13g
    • Saturated Fat: 7g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 34g
    • Dietary Fiber: 2g
    • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 30g

SmartPoints per serving: 6 (may vary based on specific ingredients and adjustments made)

This Creamy White Chicken Caprese Lasagna offers a delightful blend of creamy textures and fresh flavors, perfect for a comforting dinner that won’t derail your Weight Watchers progress. Each layer brings together wholesome ingredients like lean chicken breast, ricotta cheese, and vibrant tomatoes and basil, all enveloped in a lightened-up white sauce.

With whole wheat lasagna noodles and reduced-fat cheeses, this recipe keeps the SmartPoints value low while providing a hearty and satisfying meal option. It’s ideal for sharing with family or meal prepping for the week ahead. Treat yourself to this indulgent yet wholesome lasagna that’s sure to become a favorite at your table.