If you are craving a dish that combines the bold kick of spicy buffalo sauce with the comforting layers of cheesy lasagna, this Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe will become your new favorite. It takes everything you love about classic lasagna and gives it a lively twist by infusing tender shredded chicken coated in tangy buffalo sauce, creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and just the right touch of blue cheese. This recipe is a perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and cheesy goodness that’s irresistibly satisfying—ideal for feeding a crowd or treating yourself to something special on any night.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe is a breeze thanks to a surprisingly straightforward list of ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s layering on flavor, adding texture, or ensuring that iconic cheesy melt that holds everything together perfectly.
- 12 lasagna noodles: The essential base that creates those classic, tender layers.
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken: This hearty protein soaks up the buffalo sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup buffalo sauce: Provides that punchy spiciness; adjust the heat level to your liking.
- 2 cups ricotta cheese: Adds a creamy, smooth texture to mellow the spice.
- 1 egg: Helps to bind the ricotta mixture for perfect layering.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings the melty, gooey goodness you expect in every bite.
- 1 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional): Offers a tangy, sharp contrast if you like a little boldness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty finish and golden crust on top.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle savory depth to the ricotta blend.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Rounds out the flavor with aromatic warmth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings for balance.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A bright, fresh touch for presentation and flavor.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Buffalo Chicken
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you mix the star ingredients. Toss the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce until every piece is coated in that fiery, tangy goodness. This combo forms the zesty foundation that will tie your lasagna layers together.
Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
In a separate bowl, blend ricotta cheese with an egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This creates a luscious, flavorful mixture that balances the heat and adds creaminess to every bite, ensuring the lasagna stays perfectly moist and rich.
Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
Boil a large pot of salted water, then add the lasagna noodles, cooking them until al dente, typically around 8 to 10 minutes. Be sure to rinse the noodles under cold water afterward to stop the cooking process and keep them from sticking together.
Step 4: Layer the Lasagna
Begin layering in a 9×13 inch baking dish start by spreading a thin layer of the buffalo chicken mixture on the bottom. Next, place 4 noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture on top, then sprinkle with a third of the mozzarella cheese and half of the blue cheese if you’re using it. Repeat this exact layering one more time. Finish with the last 4 noodles, the remaining buffalo chicken mixture, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese on top. This layering technique ensures every slice is as flavorful as the last.
Step 5: Bake and Rest
Cover your dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese bubbles and turns a gorgeous golden brown. Letting the lasagna rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing helps those layers settle so the lasagna cuts cleanly and holds its shape.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley chopped over the top adds a pop of green color and a refreshing hint of herbal brightness that complements the spicy layers. If you love extra zing, drizzle a little more buffalo sauce on each serving for a touch of extra heat that keeps the flavors lively.
Side Dishes
Pair your Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with a crisp side salad to balance its richness, or crusty garlic bread that soaks up every last drop of cheesy sauce. These sides introduce varied textures and flavors to round out your meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in small ramekins or mini loaf pans for casual parties or potlucks. You can also layer the lasagna in a deep dish pie pan and cut wedges for an elegant presentation that’s still comforting and hearty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to preserve moisture and prevent odors from other foods affecting its bold flavor.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead, freeze the lasagna before baking or after it has cooled down post-baking. Wrap it well in plastic wrap followed by foil for protection. Frozen lasagna can last up to 2 months without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. Alternatively, microwaving individual slices works well for a quick meal—just be sure to cover loosely to keep moisture in.
FAQs
Can I make this Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe vegetarian?
You can substitute the shredded chicken with sautéed mushrooms, cauliflower, or even shredded jackfruit to keep the texture while making it vegetarian-friendly. Adjust seasoning and buffalo sauce to maintain the signature spicy flavor.
How spicy is this recipe?
The spice level depends mainly on the buffalo sauce you use. You can opt for mild buffalo sauce for milder heat or extra hot for a fiery kick. Always taste and adjust to your comfort level.
Do I have to use blue cheese?
Blue cheese adds tang and depth but is completely optional. You can omit it if you’re not a fan, or replace it with additional mozzarella or cheddar for a milder flavor.
Can I prepare this Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day ahead and keep it refrigerated until ready to bake. This makes it a great option for busy days or entertaining guests.
What can I serve with Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe for a full meal?
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread. Cool, crisp veggies help balance the richness and spice for a well-rounded meal.
Final Thoughts
This Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe is a total game-changer in the world of comfort food, blending spicy, creamy, and cheesy elements into one unforgettable dish. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Give it a go—you’re going to love every spicy, melty bite!
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Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Buffalo Chicken Lasagna is a flavorful twist on the traditional Italian favorite, marrying spicy buffalo chicken with creamy ricotta, tangy blue cheese, and melty mozzarella. This hearty casserole combines tender lasagna noodles layered with saucy buffalo chicken and rich cheeses, baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect for those who love a little heat and crave comfort food, this recipe serves 8 and makes a delicious main dish for family dinners or game day gatherings.
Ingredients
Lasagna Components
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
Cheese Mixtures
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Garnish
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the lasagna layers once assembled.
- Prepare Buffalo Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, stirring until the chicken is fully coated in the spicy sauce.
- Mix Ricotta Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and thoroughly combined for a creamy layer.
- Cook Noodles: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes until al dente.
- Drain and Cool Noodles: Drain the noodles and rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process, preventing them from becoming mushy.
- Start Layering: Spread a thin layer of the buffalo chicken mixture evenly on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- First Noodle Layer: Place 4 lasagna noodles over the buffalo chicken base to form the first layer of the lasagna.
- Ricotta Spread: Spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles to add creamy texture and flavor contrast.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle one-third of the mozzarella cheese and half of the blue cheese (if using) over the ricotta layer for richness and tang.
- Second Layer Repeat: Layer with buffalo chicken mixture, then 4 more noodles, followed by the remaining ricotta mixture, another third of mozzarella cheese, and the rest of the blue cheese.
- Final Layer: Place the last 4 noodles on top, spread the remaining buffalo chicken mixture, then top with the rest of the mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese for a golden finish.
- Cover for Baking: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture during the initial baking phase.
- Bake Covered: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to heat through and let flavors meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown to create a perfect crust.
- Rest: Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to set the layers and make slicing easier.
- Cut and Garnish: Slice the lasagna into squares and garnish with fresh parsley if desired for a fresh, colorful touch.
- Serve: Serve hot, optionally drizzling with extra buffalo sauce and accompany with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Enjoy: Dig into this spicy, cheesy lasagna that is sure to be a new favorite!
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to control the spice level.
- Blue cheese is optional but adds a nice tangy contrast to the ricotta and mozzarella.
- Allowing the lasagna to rest before cutting helps maintain clean layers.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
