If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal that’s both simple to make and packed with flavor, then you’ve got to try this incredible One-Pan Chicken and Broccoli Lasagne Recipe. Imagine tender shredded chicken mingling with fresh broccoli florets, all enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce, layered with delicate lasagne sheets, and topped with a golden, cheesy crust. The beauty here is the ease of cooking everything in just one pan, which means less mess and more time to enjoy that deliciousness with your favorite people. It’s a wholesome dish that brings together the warm familiarity of lasagne with a fresh twist, perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this amazing One-Pan Chicken and Broccoli Lasagne Recipe, each ingredient plays an essential role in building that perfect balance of textures and flavors. From the juicy chicken to the creamy sauce and vibrant broccoli, every item is simple yet vital to the final outcome.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Provides a fruity base for sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
- 300 g boneless, skinless chicken breast: Thinly sliced to cook quickly and shred easily for tender bites.
- ½ tsp sea salt flakes: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and sauce.
- ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and depth to the dish.
- 60 ml water: Used to deglaze the pan, capturing all those delicious browned bits.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Creates a rich base for the sauce along with the olive oil.
- 1 small brown onion, diced: Brings sweetness and a subtle tang when sautéed.
- 1 tbsp freshly minced garlic: Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth.
- 1 leek (white part only), finely sliced: Adds a mild onion-like flavor and lovely texture.
- 30 g plain (all-purpose) flour: Essential for thickening the creamy sauce perfectly.
- 625 ml chicken stock: Builds a flavorful liquid base for simmering the lasagne.
- 375 ml thickened (whipping) cream: Gives the sauce its luscious, velvety texture.
- 1 tbsp Italian mixed herbs (or dried oregano/thyme): Brings a fragrant herbaceous note that lifts the whole dish.
- 90 g broccoli florets, chopped: Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant green color.
- 1 tsp sea salt flakes: Seasoning to taste as the sauce simmers.
- ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper: Balanced seasoning for the final layers.
- 250 g fresh lasagne sheets, cut into squares: Soak up all the sauce while staying tender without becoming soggy.
- 50 g freshly grated parmesan cheese: Provides a nutty, savory punch on top.
- 150 g freshly grated mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey, irresistible finish.
- Fresh oregano or basil leaves (optional): A bright, fresh garnish to finish your dish elegantly.
How to Make One-Pan Chicken and Broccoli Lasagne Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating your olive oil in a large, heavy-based pan over medium heat. Season your thin chicken steaks with salt and freshly cracked black pepper, then cook them for about 5 to 6 minutes until just done. The key here is to allow the chicken to rest before shredding it with forks — this keeps it juicy and tender, giving you that perfect shredded texture you want in your lasagne.
Step 2: Build the Sauce Base
With the chicken temporarily set aside, use a splash of water to deglaze the pan, scraping up any sticky, flavorful brown bits left behind. This step is pure magic for flavor. Add the butter, diced onion, and minced garlic to the pan, stirring them together for a couple of minutes until you get that sweet, aromatic base forming.
Step 3: Sauté the Leek
Next, toss in the finely sliced leek and cook gently, stirring for about 3 to 4 minutes until it softens beautifully. The leek adds a delicate sweetness and extra body to the sauce, rounding out the flavor profile wonderfully.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Sprinkle the plain flour over the softened veggies and stir continuously for a full minute to cook out that raw flour taste. This is essential for achieving a creamy, thick consistency that clings to every piece of chicken and broccoli.
Step 5: Add the Liquids and Herbs
Gradually pour in your chicken stock, stirring constantly to combine. Then add the rich thickened cream along with Italian mixed herbs, salt, and pepper for seasoning. Bring everything up to a gentle simmer – this is where the sauce transforms into a silky and flavorful base ready to envelop your lasagne sheets.
Step 6: Incorporate the Broccoli and Chicken
Gently stir in the roughly chopped broccoli florets and shredded chicken. The broccoli adds brightness and a welcome crunch, while the chicken brings savory, protein-packed comfort. Let it all simmer together briefly to marry the flavors perfectly.
Step 7: Layer the Lasagne Sheets
Using tongs, carefully add your fresh lasagne squares into the pan, making sure they’re fully submerged and evenly spread. This one-pan method means the sheets cook right in the sauce, soaking up all that creamy goodness and keeping every bite tender without fussing over separate layers.
Step 8: Top with Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the grated parmesan and mozzarella evenly over the top of your lasagne in the pan. Place the pan under a hot grill until the cheese melts and bubbles into a golden crust. This finishing touch makes the dish irresistible, adding depth with its rich, melted cheese topping.
How to Serve One-Pan Chicken and Broccoli Lasagne Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your One-Pan Chicken and Broccoli Lasagne Recipe, scatter fresh oregano or basil leaves just before serving. These herbs add a fragrant freshness that complements the creamy, cheesy richness and brightens every mouthful beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish stands well on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. Roasted cherry tomatoes or garlic bread also make easy, tasty companions that harmonize with the lasagne’s comforting flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this lasagne straight from the pan for a rustic, cozy vibe that highlights the simplicity of the recipe. Or, portion it onto warm plates and finish each with an extra sprinkle of parmesan and fresh herbs for a touch of elegance when entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from this One-Pan Chicken and Broccoli Lasagne Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will deepen, and reheated portions still taste wonderfully comforting.
Freezing
This lasagne freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 180°C (350°F) or in the microwave, covered to keep moisture in. Add a splash of cream or chicken stock if the sauce has thickened too much during storage to revive that luscious texture.
FAQs
Can I use dried lasagne sheets instead of fresh?
Yes! If you opt for dried lasagne sheets, be sure to use a bit more liquid or pre-soak them to prevent dryness, as they take longer to cook through than fresh sheets.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
You can easily swap the chicken for firm tofu or mushrooms and use vegetable stock to keep it vegetarian while maintaining the rich flavors and texture.
What can I substitute for thickened cream?
Greek yogurt or evaporated milk can be used in a pinch to reduce calories, but keep in mind the sauce may be slightly less rich and creamy.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking and grilling the cheese topping.
How do I know when the lasagne sheets are cooked through?
The fresh sheets become tender and easily pierced with a fork when evenly submerged in the sauce and simmered gently, as you do in this one-pan method.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish that combines ease, flavor, and comfort all in one. This One-Pan Chicken and Broccoli Lasagne Recipe is a total winner for weeknight dinners or laid-back weekends. It’s simple enough to whip up with minimal fuss but delivers maximum satisfaction with every cheesy, creamy, and tender bite. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes a beloved favorite in your recipe rotation.
Print
One-Pan Chicken and Broccoli Lasagne Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This One-pan Chicken and Broccoli Lasagne is a comforting and hearty dish combining tender shredded chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy sauce, all cooked together in a single pan and finished under the oven grill for a golden, cheesy topping. Perfect for a family meal, it simplifies traditional lasagne by skipping layering and using fresh lasagne sheets, resulting in a quicker and easier preparation without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients
Chicken and Pan Base
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 300 g boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced horizontally into thinner steaks
- ½ tsp sea salt flakes
- ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 60 ml water
Sauce
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small brown onion, diced
- 1 tbsp freshly minced garlic
- 1 leek, white part only, finely sliced
- 30 g plain (all-purpose) flour
- 625 ml chicken stock
- 375 ml thickened (whipping/heavy) cream
- 1 tbsp Italian mixed herbs (Italian seasoning) – can be substituted with dried oregano or thyme
- 90 g broccoli florets, roughly chopped into 1 cm (½ inch) pieces
- 1 tsp sea salt flakes
- ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
Lasagne and Cheese
- 250 g fresh lasagne sheets, cut into 10 cm (4 inch) squares
- 50 g freshly grated parmesan
- 150 g freshly grated mozzarella
To Serve (Optional)
- Fresh oregano or basil leaves
Instructions
- Preheat Grill: Preheat the oven grill (broiler) to high to prepare for browning the finished lasagne.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large, deep, heavy-based pan over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes, turning halfway until just cooked through. Remove chicken from pan and set aside to rest. Once cool enough, shred chicken with two forks.
- Deglaze and Start Sauce: Use 60 ml water to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits to add flavor. Keep the pan over medium heat with pan juices, then add butter, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring, for 1–2 minutes until softened.
- Add Leek: Add the finely sliced leek to the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened.
- Add Flour: Stir in the plain flour and cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste and form a roux base.
- Add Stock and Cream: Pour in the chicken stock gradually while stirring to combine smoothly. Then add the thickened cream and Italian mixed herbs and bring mixture to a simmer.
- Add Broccoli and Seasoning: Add the chopped broccoli florets, 1 tsp sea salt flakes, and ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently to blend flavors and soften broccoli slightly.
- Add Lasagne Sheets: Using tongs, place the lasagne sheet squares into the sauce. Ensure they are completely submerged and evenly distributed in the pan to allow them to cook and absorb the sauce.
- Combine Chicken: Fold the shredded chicken back into the pan, mixing gently into the sauce and lasagne sheets.
- Add Cheese and Grill: Sprinkle grated parmesan and mozzarella evenly over the top. Place the pan under the preheated oven grill and cook for about 5–7 minutes or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh oregano or basil leaves if desired, and serve hot straight from the pan.
Notes
- Note 1: Adjust salt according to taste and dietary preferences, as broccoli and stock add natural saltiness.
- Note 2: If using dried lasagne sheets instead of fresh, pre-cook them according to package instructions before adding to the sauce to ensure they soften properly.
