If you are craving a fiery spin on a classic comfort dish, this Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender lasagna noodles layered with spicy buffalo chicken, creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and the bold punch of blue cheese—all baked until bubbly and golden. It blends the beloved flavors of buffalo chicken wings with the heartiness of traditional lasagna for a crowd-pleasing meal that’s anything but ordinary. Whether it’s game day, a casual dinner, or a special family gathering, this dish brings excitement and satisfaction to the table every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe uses simple, straightforward ingredients that each play a vital role in creating layers of flavor and texture. From the zing of buffalo sauce to the richness of cheeses, every element is essential for that perfect bite.
- Lasagna noodles: The sturdy base that holds all the delicious layers together, cooked just al dente.
- Cooked, shredded chicken: Tender and ready to absorb the bold buffalo sauce flavor.
- Buffalo sauce: Adds heat and tang, adjust the amount to control spice level.
- Ricotta cheese: Provides creamy richness that softens the heat and binds ingredients.
- Egg: Helps create a smooth, thick ricotta mixture for easy layering.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, adding gooey, stretchy texture throughout the lasagna.
- Blue cheese (optional): Offers a punchy, tangy contrast that pairs perfectly with buffalo sauce.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish on top for an irresistible golden crust.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: These seasoning staples boost the savory depth of the ricotta layer.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley: A fresh, herbal garnish to brighten the rich dish when serving.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you assemble your lasagna. Next, in a large bowl, toss the cooked, shredded chicken with buffalo sauce until every piece is soaked in that signature spicy flavor. This mixture forms the fiery heart of the dish.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Ricotta Layer
In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is creamy and smooth. This blend balances out the heat, adding a luscious, velvety texture that keeps each bite heavenly.
Step 3: Cook and Cool the Lasagna Noodles
Boil your lasagna noodles in salted water until just al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes—be careful not to overcook. Drain, then rinse under cold water to halt cooking and make the noodles easier to handle when layering.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Spread a thin layer of buffalo chicken mixture on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish—this prevents noodles from sticking and adds flavor from the first bite. Lay down 4 noodles on top, then spread half the ricotta mixture. Sprinkle a third of the mozzarella and half the blue cheese over that. Repeat this layering once more with chicken, noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, and blue cheese.
Step 5: Top and Bake
For the final layer, place the last 4 noodles on top, spread the remaining buffalo chicken, and finish with the remaining mozzarella plus grated Parmesan for a gorgeous golden crust. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake another 15-20 minutes until bubbly and browned. Let it rest before slicing—this step helps everything set beautifully.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a burst of color but also a clean, herbaceous note that lifts the richness of the dish. For an extra kick, drizzle a bit more buffalo sauce on top just before serving.
Side Dishes
This wildly flavorful lasagna pairs wonderfully with crisp side salads or classic garlic bread. The freshness and crunch of a salad balance out the creamy, spicy layers, while toasted garlic bread is perfect for mopping up every delicious bit.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or casual get-togethers, cut the lasagna into smaller squares and serve as hearty finger food or “buffalo bites.” Layer it in individual ramekins or mini casseroles for personalized servings that impress. Either way, the vibrant layers peek through enticingly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store in an airtight container to preserve the flavors and prevent drying out, making for quick and delicious next-day meals.
Freezing
This lasagna freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch. Wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap to protect it from freezer burn. It will keep for up to 3 months and be just as delicious when reheated.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the lasagna with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes until heated through. For microwaving, heat in shorter bursts to avoid drying out, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.
FAQs
Can I make this Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe vegetarian?
You can swap out the shredded chicken for cooked mushrooms, roasted cauliflower, or a plant-based chicken substitute. Just toss them with buffalo sauce to maintain the signature flavor.
How spicy is Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe?
The heat level depends on the buffalo sauce you choose and how much you use. For a milder dish, use less sauce or a mild version; for extra heat, add hot sauce or jalapeños.
Can I use no-boil noodles for this recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to add a bit more moisture in the layers, like an extra spoonful of sauce or ricotta mix, since no-boil noodles absorb liquid during baking.
Is blue cheese necessary in the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe?
Blue cheese adds a lovely tangy punch that complements buffalo sauce perfectly, but it’s optional. You can omit it or substitute with another strong cheese you enjoy.
How long does it take to prepare this lasagna?
The total time including prep and baking is about an hour. Most of the effort is in layering, which is very straightforward, making it a manageable but impressive dish.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe. It’s packed with bold, comforting flavors and perfect for warming up any meal occasion. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy buffalo chicken in a whole new, unforgettable form.
Print
Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Buffalo Chicken Lasagna is a flavorful twist on the classic Italian favorite, combining tender shredded chicken coated in spicy buffalo sauce with creamy ricotta and a blend of cheeses layered between tender lasagna noodles. This hearty casserole delivers the perfect balance of heat and cheesy comfort, baked to bubbly perfection and garnished with fresh parsley for a delightful meal that serves eight.
Ingredients
Lasagna Components
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
Cheese Mixture
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare the baking environment for the lasagna.
- Mix Chicken and Buffalo Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the cooked shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated for consistent flavor.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a separate bowl, blend the ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined to create a creamy filling.
- Cook Lasagna Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the lasagna noodles and cook for approximately 8-10 minutes according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and Rinse Noodles: Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process, preventing them from sticking.
- Layering Starts: Spread a thin layer of the buffalo chicken mixture on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- First Noodle Layer: Place 4 cooked lasagna noodles evenly over the chicken mixture.
- Ricotta Layer: Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles in an even layer.
- Cheese Topping: Sprinkle one-third of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta, followed by half of the blue cheese if using.
- Second Layering: Repeat the layering process by adding buffalo chicken mixture, 4 more noodles, remaining ricotta mixture, another third of the mozzarella cheese, and the remaining blue cheese.
- Final Layer: Place the last 4 noodles on top, spread the remaining buffalo chicken mixture evenly, then top with the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Uncover and Continue Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest: Let the lasagna sit for 10-15 minutes after baking to set before cutting.
- Serve and Garnish: Cut the lasagna into squares and garnish with fresh parsley, optionally drizzling additional buffalo sauce on top for extra heat.
- Enjoy: Serve hot alongside a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to control the spice level according to your preference.
- Blue cheese is optional but adds a tangy richness that complements the buffalo sauce well.
- Letting the lasagna rest after baking helps the layers to set and prevents it from falling apart when cut.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, substitute buffalo sauce with a mild wing sauce or barbecue sauce.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
