French onion chicken lasagna roll-ups combine the comforting flavors of French onion soup with the heartiness of lasagna. You'll start by caramelizing sweet onions and mixing them with shredded chicken, ricotta, and spinach. Then, you'll fill cooked lasagna noodles with this mixture, rolling them up, and baking them with béchamel sauce and Gruyère on top. This dish is great for family dinners. Stick around to discover the full recipe and cooking tips that make this meal shine.
History
While you might think of French onion chicken lasagna roll-ups as a modern dish, their roots trace back to the rich culinary traditions of France and Italy. The inspiration comes from French onion soup, which dates back to the 18th century, featuring caramelized onions and melted gruyère cheese.
This classic soup embodies the essence of French cuisine, while the concept of layered meals harks back to ancient Roman dishes, evolving through Italian cooking. By blending these flavors, you embrace contemporary culinary trends that create innovative modern recipes. The use of fermentation in some modern cooking techniques also highlights the ongoing evolution of culinary practices.
The Swiss influence in using gruyère cheese enhances the dish, making it a prime example of comfort food that's easy to serve and perfect for family gatherings.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large sweet onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups béchamel sauce
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
Cooking Instructions:
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the sliced onions. Cook the onions slowly for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally until they're caramelized and golden brown.
In another pan, sauté the garlic for a minute before adding the spinach, cooking until wilted.
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded chicken, thyme, salt, pepper, and the sautéed spinach and garlic.
Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions, then drain and lay them flat.
Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture on each noodle, roll them up, and place them seam-side down in a baking dish.
Top with béchamel sauce and sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Extra Tips:
For added depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the caramelized onions while cooking.
You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or Parmesan, to suit your taste.
If you plan to make the roll-ups ahead of time, assemble them and store them in the refrigerator without baking.
Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they're chilled.
Enjoy the leftovers by reheating them gently in the oven for a comforting meal any day of the week!
Cooking Steps
To kick things off, you'll want to preheat your oven to 375°F.
Start by sautéing those sweet onions until they caramelize beautifully, then fill your lasagna noodles with the delicious chicken mixture.
Finally, don't forget to add cheese before baking for that perfect melty finish!
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 375°F
Preheating your oven to 375°F is an essential step in making French onion chicken lasagna roll-ups. This temperature guarantees even baking, allowing the cheese on your roll-ups to melt beautifully and become golden and bubbly.
By preheating, you'll achieve the perfect texture, making the top layer crispier, which enhances the entire dish. It typically takes about 30-35 minutes at this temperature for the roll-ups to reach their optimum state.
If you're using a convection oven, consider reducing the temperature slightly or checking for doneness earlier, as these ovens circulate heat more efficiently.
Always allow the oven to fully preheat for the best results, preventing uneven cooking and guaranteeing your roll-ups turn out perfectly every time.
Step 2. Sauté Onions Until Caramelized
With your oven preheated, it's time to focus on the onions.
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-low heat and add butter or olive oil to prevent sticking. Slice sweet onions, like Vidalia or Walla Walla, and toss them into the skillet, seasoning with salt to draw out moisture.
Cook the onions slowly for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and develop that rich, caramelized flavor. Remember, patience is key; rushing this process with high heat can burn the onions and ruin their sweetness. Additionally, the aroma of the caramelizing onions can create a positive environment, enhancing your mood while you cook.
Once they're perfectly caramelized, transfer the onions to a plate to halt the cooking. This way, you'll keep them from overcooking while you move on to the next steps.
Step 3. Fill Noodles With Chicken Mixture
Lay out your cooked lasagna noodles in a single layer, making it easy to fill them.
Spread a generous layer of the ricotta mixture over each noodle, guaranteeing even coverage for flavor and creaminess.
Next, add a portion of the sautéed spinach and chicken mixture on top of the ricotta, distributing it evenly for balanced roll-ups.
Carefully roll each noodle from one end to the other, keeping the filling intact.
Place the rolled noodle seam side down in the prepared béchamel sauce, which adds richness and moisture.
Repeat the rolling process for all noodles, snugly packing them in the baking dish.
This guarantees even cooking and a beautiful presentation once you're ready to serve.
Step 4. Bake for 25 Minutes
Once your oven's heated to 350 degrees F, place the assembled lasagna roll-ups inside for baking.
Bake the roll-ups for 30 minutes, allowing them to become golden and bubbly. You'll want to confirm the cheese is melted and the béchamel sauce is heated throughout.
Keep an eye on the dish during the last few minutes; oven temperatures can vary, and you want to avoid over-browning. If you like a crispy top, feel free to broil the roll-ups for an additional 2-3 minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.
After baking, let the lasagna roll-ups cool for a few minutes to let the flavors meld and make serving easier.
Enjoy your delicious creation!
Step 5. Add Cheese Before Baking
Before you bake the French onion chicken lasagna roll-ups, make certain to spoon the thyme béchamel sauce evenly over each rolled noodle. This creamy base is essential for flavor.
Next, after you've arranged the roll-ups in an oven-safe skillet, generously sprinkle shredded Gruyère cheese on top. This will create a rich, melty finish as it bakes in the oven.
If you want an even more decadent crust, consider adding another layer of cheese halfway through the 30-minute baking time at 350 degrees F. Ascertain the cheese is evenly distributed for consistent melting and browning.
Finally, after baking, garnish with fresh thyme and chives to elevate both the presentation and flavor of your cheesy top layer.
Final Thoughts
French Onion Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups not only deliver a delicious blend of flavors but also provide a comforting meal that's perfect for any occasion.
This recipe combines sweet caramelized onions, creamy béchamel sauce, and rich Gruyère cheese, making it a standout dish.
With a preparation time of about 50 minutes and 35 minutes for baking, you'll have a satisfying meal ready in just over an hour.
You can assemble the roll-ups ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours, making it convenient for busy schedules.
Plus, if you want to simplify things, using French onion soup instead of caramelized onions can cut down on prep time while keeping the flavor intact.
Enjoy those leftovers!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Gluten-Free Noodles for This Recipe?
If you're looking to dance with a gluten-free option, you absolutely can use gluten-free noodles for this recipe.
They're a wonderful alternative that'll still let you twirl through those delicious flavors.
Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as gluten-free noodles often have a different texture.
With a little adjustment, you'll create a delightful dish that everyone can enjoy without missing a beat.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers in the Fridge?
You can store leftovers in the fridge for about three to four days.
Make sure you place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. When you're ready to eat, just reheat them until they're heated through.
If you think you won't finish them in that time, consider freezing them instead. Just remember to label the container with the date so you know when you stored it.
Enjoy your meal!
Can I Freeze French Onion Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups?
Absolutely, you can freeze those delicious lasagna roll-ups!
Just like a treasure waiting to be uncovered, they'll hold their flavor and texture beautifully.
Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat.
This way, they'll taste just as fresh as the day you made them!
What Sides Pair Well With This Dish?
When you're deciding on sides to pair with a rich, cheesy dish, think about balancing flavors and textures.
A crisp Caesar salad adds a revitalizing crunch, while garlic bread complements the dish's savory notes.
Roasted vegetables, like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, provide a nice earthy contrast.
You might also enjoy a light soup, like a tomato basil, to round out your meal.
These sides will enhance your dining experience perfectly!
Is There a Vegetarian Version of This Recipe?
Absolutely, you can create a vegetarian version of the recipe!
Just swap out the chicken for a hearty filling like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables.
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for the sauce, and choose a cheese that suits your taste, like ricotta or mozzarella.
With these adjustments, you'll still enjoy a delicious, comforting dish that's packed with flavor and completely meat-free!
