Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Filling:
a. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
b. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
c. Add shredded or diced cooked chicken to the skillet. Season with dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
d. Pour in the marinara sauce, stirring to coat the chicken evenly. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes, ensuring the flavors meld together. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Potato Layers:
a. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
b. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
c. Gradually add milk to the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.
d. Season the béchamel sauce with salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Remove from heat.
e. Layer thinly sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish, covering the bottom evenly.
f. Pour a portion of the béchamel sauce over the potato layer, ensuring it is well-coated.
3. Assemble the Chicken and Potato Lasagna:
a. Spoon half of the prepared chicken filling over the béchamel-covered potatoes.
b. Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken filling.
c. Repeat the layers: sliced potatoes, béchamel sauce, chicken filling, and mozzarella cheese until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of mozzarella on top.
4. Bake to Perfection:
a. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes.
b. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown and the cheese to become bubbly and golden.
5. Garnish and Serve:
a. Let the Chicken and Potato Lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
b. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
a. Serve generous portions of the Chicken and Potato Lasagna, savoring the layers of flavor and texture in every bite.
b. Pair with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
c. Once the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and golden, remove the lasagna from the oven.
