Southwestern Chicken Lasagna

Southwestern Chicken Lasagna Recipe - USA Origin + Ingredients

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 50 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Southwestern Chicken Lasagna is a delicious and flavorful twist on traditional lasagna. This recipe combines the flavors of the Southwest with layers of chicken, salsa, cheese, and spices for a hearty and satisfying meal.

History

Southwestern Chicken Lasagna is a modern fusion dish that combines traditional Italian lasagna with Southwestern flavors. The use of ingredients like salsa, chilies, and cumin gives this dish a unique and bold flavor profile that sets it apart from classic lasagna recipes.

Ingredients

4 cups cooked chicken, cubed
1 (16 oz) package cottage cheese
0.33 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 (4 oz) can diced mild green chilies
2 tbsp salad oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 (16 oz) jars salsa, mild
1 tbsp chili powder
1.5 tsp ground cumin
1 (10 oz) package lasagna noodles
2 cups monterey jack cheese, shredded
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded

How to prepare

1. Combine cottage cheese, parsley, and chives; set aside.
2. Heat oil in a 4 qt (3.78 liter) saucepan.
3. Add onions, garlic, and bell pepper.
4. Cook over medium heat for 10 minutes, until the onion is tender.
5. Add salsa, chili powder, and cumin.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cook, uncovered for 10 minutes.
7. Meanwhile, cook lasagna noodles and drain well.
8. Spray a 9x13 inches pan with non-stick spray.
9. Arrange a layer of cooked noodles on the bottom.
10. Spread 0.5 of the cottage cheese mixture, then 0.5 of the chicken over the noodles.
11. Spread 0.33 of the salsa mixture, then 0.33 of the cheese over the chicken.
12. Repeat layers with noodles, 0.5 cottage cheese mixture, 0.5 chicken, 0.33 salsa, and 0.33 cheese.
13. Finish with the remaining noodles, salsa, and cheese.
14. Bake, covered at 375°F (191°C) for about 45 to 50 minutes.
15. Let it stand for about 15 minutes before serving so it can firm up.

Variations

Substitute ground turkey or beef for the chicken.
Add black beans, corn, or diced tomatoes to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
Use corn tortillas instead of lasagna noodles for a gluten-free option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the lasagna noodles al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.

- Let the lasagna sit for 15 minutes after baking to allow it to set and make it easier to slice and serve.

- Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite toppings or additional ingredients, such as black beans, corn, or avocado.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Southwestern Chicken Lasagna with a side salad, guacamole, or sour cream for a complete meal. It pairs well with a cold beer or a glass of white wine.

Cooking Techniques

Layer the lasagna ingredients evenly to ensure each bite is flavorful and satisfying.

- Cover the lasagna with foil while baking to prevent the cheese from burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese for a creamier texture.

- Swap out the cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Southwestern Chicken Lasagna can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the lasagna with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapenos, or avocado slices for a colorful and festive presentation. Serve it in individual ramekins for a fun twist on traditional lasagna.

Pairing Recommendations

Southwestern Chicken Lasagna pairs well with a crisp green salad, Mexican street corn, or roasted vegetables. For drinks, try serving it with a margarita, sangria, or iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Southwestern Chicken Lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (177°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

420

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 32g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 5g

Fats

- Total Fat: 22g

- Saturated Fat: 10g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 32g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 20%

- Vitamin C: 30%

- Calcium: 30%

- Iron: 15%

Alergens

Contains dairy (cheese, cottage cheese)

Summary

Southwestern Chicken Lasagna is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is relatively high in fat and calories, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a well-rounded diet.

Summary

Southwestern Chicken Lasagna is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the best of Italian and Southwestern cuisine. With layers of chicken, salsa, cheese, and spices, this lasagna is sure to become a new family favorite. Enjoy it with your favorite sides and beverages for a delicious and memorable meal.

How did I get this recipe?

. The first time I saw this recipe, I was hooked. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria in New Mexico. Maria was known for her delicious Southwestern dishes, and she had promised to teach me how to make her famous Southwestern Chicken Lasagna.

As we gathered ingredients from her garden and pantry, Maria began to tell me the story behind the recipe. She explained that she had learned how to make it from her grandmother, who had been born and raised in New Mexico. Her grandmother had passed down the recipe through the generations, and Maria had added her own twist to it over the years.

The key to the dish, Maria explained, was the layers of flavors. We started by marinating the chicken in a mixture of spices and lime juice, giving it a tangy and zesty flavor. While the chicken was marinating, we prepared the other ingredients - a rich tomato sauce, a creamy cheese mixture, and layers of corn tortillas.

As we assembled the lasagna, Maria shared stories of her childhood in New Mexico. She talked about the long summer days spent running through the fields and the cozy winter nights gathered around the dinner table with her family. The Southwestern Chicken Lasagna was a staple in her household, a dish that brought comfort and warmth to her loved ones.

As the lasagna baked in the oven, the aroma of the spices filled the kitchen. Maria and I sat at the table, sipping on glasses of cold lemonade and reminiscing about old times. When the timer finally went off, we eagerly pulled the lasagna out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

The first bite of the Southwestern Chicken Lasagna was a revelation. The tender chicken, the gooey cheese, the hearty tomato sauce - it was a symphony of flavors in my mouth. I couldn't believe that something so simple could taste so delicious.

From that day on, I knew that the Southwestern Chicken Lasagna would become a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for my family and friends, sharing the recipe with anyone who asked. Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding a touch of spice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

But no matter how many times I make it, the Southwestern Chicken Lasagna always brings me back to that warm summer day in New Mexico, sitting at Maria's kitchen table and learning the secrets of her family recipe. It's a dish that holds a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.

And so, as I pass down the recipe to my own grandchildren, I hope that they will feel the same love and connection to the dish that I do. Because in the end, it's not just about the ingredients or the cooking process - it's about the stories and memories that we create around the table, sharing good food and good company.