If you’re craving something that combines the comforting layers of traditional Italian lasagna with that bold, spicy kick of buffalo chicken, you’re in for a treat. This Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe takes classic flavors and turns them on their head with creamy cheeses, tangy ranch, and zesty buffalo sauce all layered together beautifully. It’s a crowd-pleaser that delivers on texture, color, and unforgettable taste, perfect for gatherings or simply spicing up your weeknight dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe is simpler than you might think. Each component plays its part: tender chicken delivers hearty protein, cheeses provide creamy richness, and buffalo sauce brings that unmistakable punch of flavor.
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds juicy texture.
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce: The star ingredient that gives the dish its signature spicy tang.
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing: Creamy and cooling, balances the heat perfectly (blue cheese works great too).
- 9-12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained: Provides the classic layered structure.
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese: Adds a fluffy, mild creaminess that melds the layers.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melting magic for gooey, stringy goodness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp and salty, it boosts every bite.
- 1 egg: Binds the ricotta mixture for a smooth texture.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: For a bold, slightly tangy finish on top.
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk: Adds richness and helps with smooth consistency.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional): Fresh herbs for garnish and a pop of color.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Buffalo Chicken
Start by mixing the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and ranch dressing in a medium bowl. This combination guarantees every chicken bite is juicy, spicy, and perfectly coated with creamy goodness. Set this aside to let the flavors mingle while you work on the cheese mixture.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling
In another bowl, blend the ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and egg. This mixture will provide a creamy base that contrasts deliciously with the spicy chicken layers and keeps the lasagna wonderfully moist and rich.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the buffalo chicken mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. This flavorful base helps prevent sticking and infuses the entire lasagna with spicy goodness from the first bite.
Step 4: Layer the Noodles and Fillings
Place 3 to 4 cooked lasagna noodles over the chicken layer. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles, then top with half the buffalo chicken mixture. Repeat this layering once more with noodles, ricotta, and buffalo chicken, creating a beautiful, balanced build-up of flavors and textures.
Step 5: Top with Cheeses and Bake
Finish the layering by sprinkling shredded cheddar and the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese bubbles and turns a gorgeous golden brown.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, give the lasagna 5 to 10 minutes to rest. This step helps the layers set so every slice holds together beautifully, offering you that perfect portion of spicy, cheesy wonder with every serving.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh cilantro or chopped parsley on top right before serving not only adds a vibrant splash of green but also contributes a hint of freshness that balances the rich, spicy lasagna layers. It’s a simple touch that makes the dish feel a bit more special.
Side Dishes
This Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides like a green salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette or classic garlic bread. The salad lightens the meal, while garlic bread gives you a delicious vehicle to soak up any extra sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the lasagna in individual ramekins or mini casserole dishes for personal portions. You can also layer it in a deep-dish skillet and serve family-style right from the stove for a cozy, casual vibe that invites everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Buffalo Chicken Lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Each reheated slice tastes just as delicious, making this dish a perfect option for meal prep or enjoying the next day.
Freezing
This lasagna freezes incredibly well. Wrap the cooled lasagna tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. For a quick fix, microwave individual portions until hot, though oven reheating preserves the crispy top best.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella, ricotta, and cheddar are traditional and balanced here, you can experiment with pepper jack for more spice or even a creamy blue cheese for a tangier twist.
Is this lasagna very spicy?
The spice level depends on your buffalo sauce choice. Mild buffalo sauce keeps it approachable, while hot versions will definitely turn up the heat. The ranch or blue cheese dressing helps to mellow the spice, making it enjoyable for many palates.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can substitute the chicken with seasoned jackfruit or a mix of mushrooms and spinach for a vegetarian version. Just make sure to keep the buffalo sauce and cheeses to maintain the flavor profile.
Do I need to boil the noodles before assembling?
Yes, cooking the lasagna noodles before layering is important to ensure they cook fully and absorb all the delicious flavors without becoming tough or dry in the oven.
How long can I let the lasagna rest before serving?
Allow the lasagna to rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period helps the lasagna set up nicely for clean slicing and prevents the layers from sliding apart when served.
Final Thoughts
This Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe is one of those magical comfort dishes that feels both indulgent and exciting. The way spicy buffalo chicken mingles with creamy cheese layers is irresistibly good. I encourage you to try making this at home—once you do, it just might become your new go-to comfort food that friends and family ask for again and again.
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Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Buffalo Chicken Lasagna combines the spicy kick of buffalo sauce with the creamy goodness of ricotta and mozzarella cheeses layered between tender lasagna noodles. Perfectly baked to a golden bubbly finish, this hearty dish offers a delicious twist on traditional lasagna with a flavorful buffalo chicken filling. Ideal for a family dinner or a game day feast.
Ingredients
Buffalo Chicken Mixture
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese dressing)
Cheese Mixture
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided (1 cup for filling, 1/2 cup for topping)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
Other Ingredients
- 9–12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Buffalo Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and ranch or blue cheese dressing. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Prepare the Lasagna Filling: In a separate bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Blend well until smooth to create the creamy cheese mixture that will layer the lasagna.
- Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the assembled lasagna.
- Layer the Lasagna Bottom: Spread a thin layer of the buffalo chicken mixture evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to create the first flavorful base layer.
- First Layer Assembly: Lay 3-4 cooked lasagna noodles over the chicken layer. Then, spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture on top of the noodles, followed by half of the buffalo chicken mixture to build up the rich, spicy layers.
- Repeat Layering: Add another layer of noodles, and then spread the remaining ricotta cheese mixture. Top this with the remaining buffalo chicken mixture to complete the filling layers. Finish the assembly by evenly sprinkling the shredded cheddar cheese and the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the lasagna dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to start melting.
- Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the aluminum foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown, signaling the perfect bake.
- Rest the Lasagna: Allow the lasagna to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes slicing easier. Optionally, garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh finish.
- Serve: Slice the lasagna and serve it warm, ideally with a side salad or garlic bread to make a complete, satisfying meal.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken is a quick and flavorful shortcut for this recipe.
- Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to control the heat level according to your preference.
- For a creamier lasagna, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- You can substitute ranch dressing with blue cheese dressing for a tangier flavor.
- Make sure the lasagna noodles are well drained to prevent watery layers.
- Allowing the lasagna to rest before serving helps the layers settle and improves slicing.
