I still remember the first time I tried Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Lasagne. It was a rainy Sunday afternoon, and my kitchen smelled like home for the first time in weeks. I had friends over and wanted something comforting but impressive. When I served it, the moment my friends took the first bite, the room went silent. That pause was enough to know I had nailed it. Since then, it’s become my go-to dish for lazy weekends or when I want to feel like I’m giving a hug through food.
This recipe is all about balance. You get layers of creamy sauce, tender chicken, rich cheese, and a touch of herbs that bring it all together. It’s easier than it looks, and the results feel like restaurant quality.
Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Lasagne Recipe
I’ve followed Jamie Oliver’s original recipe countless times. Each time I notice something new-a hint of spice here, a texture there. His approach is simple: real ingredients, fresh flavors, and cooking that feels intuitive.
This lasagne is perfect for:
- Family dinners
- Meal prep for the week
- Impressing friends with minimal stress
It’s not just about following steps. It’s about letting the flavors guide you. Once you make it, you’ll start improvising and adding your personal touches.
Ingredients Needed
The first time I made this, I had a messy counter with everything out in front of me. Here’s what you’ll need to keep it organized:
- Chicken breast – tender, diced
- Lasagne sheets – fresh or oven-ready
- Onion and garlic – finely chopped
- Carrot and celery – diced small for subtle sweetness
- Tomato passata – the base of the sauce
- Cream or béchamel – for creamy layers
- Parmesan and mozzarella – one melts, one adds tang
- Fresh herbs – basil, thyme, or parsley
- Olive oil – for sautéing
- Salt and pepper – to taste
Pro tip: Always have everything measured and prepped. Cooking becomes a lot more fun when you’re not scrambling for ingredients mid-recipe.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Lasagne
My first lasagne almost fell apart because I rushed. Here’s how I learned to get it right:
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Step 1: Prep The Chicken
- Heat oil in a pan
- Cook chicken until golden
- Remove and set aside
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Step 2: Make The Sauce
- Sauté onions, garlic, carrot, and celery until soft
- Add passata and simmer
- Return chicken to the pan
- Season with herbs, salt, and pepper
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Step 3: Layer The Lasagne
- Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of your dish
- Place lasagne sheets
- Add more sauce and a layer of cream or béchamel
- Sprinkle cheese
- Repeat until dish is full
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Step 4: Bake
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)
- Bake for 25-30 minutes
- Let it rest before cutting
The first time I tried skipping the resting step, the layers collapsed. Never skip this-it’s crucial for clean slices.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
When I first learned why each ingredient mattered, it changed how I cook.
- Chicken – provides protein and absorbs flavors from sauce
- Onion and garlic – natural sweeteners when cooked, create umami
- Tomato passata – acid balances the richness of cheese and cream
- Cream/Béchamel – emulsifies and keeps the lasagne moist
- Cheese – parmesan adds sharpness, mozzarella gives stretch
Understanding this makes improvising easier. For example, adding spinach adds moisture and nutrients without altering flavor too much.
Expert Tips
I’ve made this dish over 20 times, and these tips save headaches:
- Don’t overcook the chicken in the pan-it will cook more in the oven
- Use fresh herbs if you can; dried herbs can be too strong
- Cover the dish with foil for the first 20 minutes to keep it moist
- Let it rest 10 minutes after baking
- Taste the sauce before layering; adjust seasoning
Little tweaks make a big difference.
Recipe Variations
I love experimenting. Here are a few ways to mix it up:
- Vegetable Boost: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach
- Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes to the sauce
- Cheese Swap: Use fontina or gouda for different melting textures
- Healthy Swap: Use whole wheat lasagne sheets or low-fat cream
Every variation teaches you more about flavors and textures.
Final Words
I can’t overstate this: the best part of making Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Lasagne is the process. The aroma while it’s baking is unmatched. The creamy texture, the tender chicken, the melted cheese-it’s more than food. It’s comfort.
It’s perfect for when you want to cook with intention but still feel relaxed.
FAQs
What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Lasagne Different From Traditional Beef Lasagne?
Jamie Oliver’s chicken lasagne uses a lighter chicken filling, often with a creamy white sauce instead of the usual tomato sauce. It’s a fresher take on the classic lasagne.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Lasagne Ahead Of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the lasagne a day before, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready to serve. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil.
What Can I Substitute For The Mascarpone Cheese In The Recipe?
If you don’t have mascarpone, cream cheese or ricotta can be a good substitute. It will still give the dish that creamy texture.