The smell of bubbling cheese and savory chicken wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. I created this Simple Hatch Green Chile Chicken Lasagna one busy weeknight when I wanted something comforting yet a bit out of the ordinary. With its layers of tender chicken, smoky hatch chiles, and a creamy cheese sauce, this dish is not only a delightful twist on a classic but also a surefire hit for the entire family.
As the casserole bakes, the anticipation builds—just wait until you pull it from the oven, with that perfect golden crust begging to be served! It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together, ideal for potlucks or dinner with loved ones, and it’s even perfect for make-ahead meal prep. So, if you’re tired of the usual fast-food routine and craving something homemade and delicious, let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that’s sure to become a cherished favorite at your dining table!
Why is Simple Hatch Green Chile Chicken Lasagna a Must-Try?
Comforting Layers: This dish offers a hearty combination of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and smoky chiles that takes lasagna to new heights.
Family-Friendly: Perfect for busy weeknights, it satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it in advance and simply bake when you’re ready, perfect for meal prep.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for potlucks and gatherings—everyone will be asking for your secret.
Easy Steps: With straightforward instructions and basic ingredients, this lasagna is simple to whip up. Enjoy it alongside a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal!
Simple Hatch Green Chile Chicken Lasagna Ingredients
• Gather your ingredients for this comforting and flavorful dish!
For the Lasagna
- Lasagna Noodles – Ensure they’re cooked al dente to hold the layers together perfectly.
- Cooked Chicken – Shredded or diced, it adds heartiness and protein to the dish.
- Cream Cheese – Adds that creamy richness and binds the filling together; room temperature makes mixing much easier.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Essential for melty texture, and you’ll want to reserve some for that gooey top layer.
- Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated enhances the flavor of the white sauce beautifully.
- Hatch Green Chiles – The star of this recipe, providing a unique, smoky flavor; use fresh for the best taste, but canned works too!
For the White Sauce
- Unsalted Butter – The foundation for your rich white sauce, essential for both flavor and texture.
- Flour – Thickens the sauce to a creamy consistency, creating that luscious feel.
- Milk – Forms the base of the sauce; gradually whisk in to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth texture.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Vital for seasoning every layer, enhancing the overall taste of this simple Hatch green chile chicken lasagna.
Combine these delightful ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
How to Make Simple Hatch Green Chile Chicken Lasagna
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Cook Noodles: Boil lasagna noodles in salted water until al dente. Drain and arrange them flat on paper towels to cool and prevent sticking.
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Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken, cream cheese, mozzarella, and chopped hatch chiles. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper before mixing until well incorporated.
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Prepare Sauce: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour for about 1 minute. Gradually stir in milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and seasoned to taste.
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the lasagna.
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Assemble Layers: Start by spreading a layer of white sauce in a baking dish. Layer with noodles, half of the chicken filling, and repeat with another layer. Finish with a top layer of noodles and the remaining sauce, then sprinkle the reserved mozzarella cheese on top.
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Bake: Place the assembled lasagna in the preheated oven and bake for 30-45 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. For a crispy top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.
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Rest: Allow the lasagna to rest for at least 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the layers set, making it easier to slice.
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of paprika for an extra touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Simple Hatch Green Chile Chicken Lasagna
Fridge: Store any leftovers tightly covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps the flavors intact while maintaining freshness.
Freezer: Wrap portions securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. This protects against freezer burn while preserving the taste of your simple Hatch Green Chile Chicken Lasagna.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven set at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual servings for a quick meal.
Avoid Overcrowding: For best results, heat smaller portions at a time to ensure even warming without drying out the lasagna.
Expert Tips for Simple Hatch Green Chile Chicken Lasagna
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Cook Noodles Just Right: Avoid soggy layers by ensuring lasagna noodles are cooked al dente. This keeps them firm when baking.
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Mix at Room Temperature: Use cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing into the chicken filling and to achieve a smooth texture in your simple Hatch Green Chile Chicken Lasagna.
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Whisk Constantly: When preparing the white sauce, whisk constantly while adding milk. This prevents lumps and ensures a creamy consistency.
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Season Every Layer: Don’t forget to season each layer with salt and black pepper. This enhances the flavors throughout the dish, making every bite delicious.
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Rest Before Serving: Allow the lasagna to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This lets the layers set, making it easier to cut without falling apart.
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Customize Your Filling: Feel free to add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini to the chicken filling for added nutrition and flavor diversity in your simple Hatch Green Chile Chicken Lasagna.
Simple Hatch Green Chile Chicken Lasagna Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own; a world of flavors awaits!
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Turkey Swap: Use cooked turkey instead of chicken for a lighter, equally satisfying dish.
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Cheese Twist: Try using a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a creamy twist with a bit more zest.
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Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a delicious vegetarian lasagna.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the chicken filling for an extra layer of heat that spice lovers will adore!
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Gluten-Free Noodles: Opt for gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this dish friendly for those with gluten sensitivities.
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Extra Veggies: Incorporate roasted zucchini or eggplant into the layers for added texture and nutrition.
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Creamy Alfredo: Substitute the white sauce with creamy Alfredo sauce for an indulgent, rich flavor.
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Cilantro Infusion: Add fresh chopped cilantro to the chicken mixture for a fresh, herbaceous flavor that brightens the entire dish.
What to Serve with Simple Hatch Green Chile Chicken Lasagna?
Create the perfect meal pairing that complements your comforting lasagna with delightful sides and beverages!
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Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the rich lasagna flavors.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is an irresistible side. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra sauce and offers a delightful texture contrast.
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Mexican Street Corn: Roasted corn sprinkled with cheese, lime, and chili powder brings a smoky, spicy flair to your table, enhancing the southwestern vibe of the lasagna.
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Sautéed Vegetables: Lightly sautéed bell peppers and zucchini provide a vibrant, colorful addition, adding nutrition and flavor while keeping the meal light and fresh.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can offer a refreshing bite alongside your lasagna, adding a creamy texture and slight sweetness that beautifully contrasts the dish.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp and chilled Sauvignon Blanc enhances the overall dining experience, pairing pleasantly with the creamy and smoky notes of your dish.
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Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices drizzled with lime juice complement and elevate the flavors, adding a delightful creaminess to each bite.
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Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a sweet note with a light, airy chocolate mousse; its richness will contrast beautifully with your savory lasagna.
With these pairings, your Simple Hatch Green Chile Chicken Lasagna transforms into a full-fledged feast that your loved ones will adore!
Make Ahead Options
These Simple Hatch Green Chile Chicken Lasagna are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the entire lasagna up to 24 hours in advance, simply refrigerate it tightly covered to maintain freshness. The layers of noodles, chicken filling, and creamy sauce will meld beautifully overnight, allowing the flavors to deepen. If you prefer, you can also freeze the assembled lasagna for up to 3 months; just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and cook from frozen; it may take an additional 15-30 minutes. So, whenever you’re ready to serve, you can enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort!
Simple Hatch Green Chile Chicken Lasagna Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right Hatch chiles?
Absolutely! When selecting Hatch chiles, look for ones that are firm with a vibrant color. Avoid any with wrinkles or dark spots since that may indicate overripeness. Fresh chiles should feel heavy for their size and have a distinct, smoky aroma. If you can’t find fresh ones, canned hatch chiles can work in a pinch, providing a similar flavor profile.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very simple! To store any leftover Simple Hatch Green Chile Chicken Lasagna, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. It can last for up to 4 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, heat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Keeping it well-covered will help retain the creaminess and flavor.
Can I freeze this lasagna?
Absolutely! You can freeze portions of your Simple Hatch Green Chile Chicken Lasagna for up to 3 months. To do this, wrap each portion securely in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Label the packages with the date so you know when they were made. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What if my white sauce turns lumpy?
Not to worry! If your white sauce happens to get lumpy, you can whisk it vigorously to smooth it out, or if that doesn’t help, consider passing it through a fine sieve into a new saucepan. Going forward, whisking constantly while adding the milk at a slow pace is key. This keeps the sauce creamy and lump-free for your lasagna.
Is this recipe suitable for those with dairy allergies?
It can be a challenge! Since this Simple Hatch Green Chile Chicken Lasagna contains several dairy ingredients (like cream cheese and cheese), it won’t be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. However, you can substitute dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives without compromising the structure. Just ensure they melt well, and season the layers to enhance flavor!
Can I add more veggies?
The more the merrier! Absolutely, you can incorporate veggies such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers into the filling. Sauté them first to reduce moisture before adding them to the mix so your lasagna maintains its delicious structure. This not only boosts nutrition but also adds vibrant flavors to your Simple Hatch Green Chile Chicken Lasagna!
Delicious Simple Hatch Green Chile Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil lasagna noodles in salted water until al dente. Drain and arrange them flat on paper towels to cool and prevent sticking.
- In a large bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken, cream cheese, mozzarella, and chopped hatch chiles. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper before mixing until well incorporated.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour for about 1 minute. Gradually stir in milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and seasoned to taste.
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the lasagna.
- Start by spreading a layer of white sauce in a baking dish. Layer with noodles, half of the chicken filling, and repeat with another layer. Finish with a top layer of noodles and the remaining sauce, then sprinkle the reserved mozzarella cheese on top.
- Place the assembled lasagna in the preheated oven and bake for 30-45 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. For a crispy top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Allow the lasagna to rest for at least 10 minutes after removing it from the oven.