Buffalo chicken lasagna

Oh, friends, gather ’round, because I’ve got something truly special to share with you today. This isn’t just *any* recipe; this is the one that makes my whole family cheer, the one that vanishes from the table faster than you can say “second helping,” and the one that feels like a warm hug on a plate. We’re talking about Buffalo chicken lasagna, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer. If you love the tangy, spicy kick of buffalo wings and the comforting, cheesy layers of a Classic Lasagna, then prepare yourself. This dish takes those beloved flavors and merges them into something utterly magical. It’s that perfect marriage of comfort food meets a little bit of a party in your mouth, and it’s surprisingly easy to pull off, even on a weeknight when you’re feeling particularly frazzled. I remember the first time I made it; my husband took one bite and his eyes just lit up. He said, “This is what dreams are made of,” and honestly, he wasn’t wrong. It’s that good, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

What is Buffalo chicken lasagna?

So, what exactly *is* buffalo chicken lasagna? Think of it as the ultimate culinary mashup. We’ve taken all the best parts of a traditional lasagna – those tender pasta sheets, creamy ricotta, rich marinara (though we’re tweaking that a bit here!), and gooey mozzarella – and infused it with the bold, zesty flavors of buffalo chicken. Instead of ground meat, we’re using shredded chicken that’s been tossed in a fiery, tangy buffalo sauce. Then, we layer it all up, often with a creamy, slightly cheesy sauce that complements the buffalo spice without overpowering it. It’s essentially comfort food with a seriously exciting kick. The name itself just sounds delicious, doesn’t it? It’s a dish that feels both familiar and wonderfully new, perfect for game days, family dinners, or anytime you’re craving something that’s a little bit extraordinary.

How do I make buffalo chicken lasagna?

Quick Overview

The process for this amazing buffalo chicken lasagna is wonderfully straightforward. We’ll get our buffalo chicken mixture ready, whip up a simple creamy cheese sauce, layer everything with pasta sheets, and then bake it to golden, bubbly perfection. The beauty of this recipe is that it minimizes complicated steps. You’re essentially mixing, layering, and baking. It’s designed to be approachable and forgiving, ensuring a fantastic result even if you’re not a seasoned chef. Trust me, the aroma filling your kitchen as this bakes will be pure magic!

Ingredients

What is the Buffalo Chicken filling?

• 3 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver here!)
• 1 cup buffalo wing sauce (use your favorite brand, and adjust amount for spice preference)
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing (or a mix!)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped celery (optional, but adds a nice crunch!)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion (optional, for a little bite)

For the Creamy Cheese Layers:

• 15 ounces ricotta cheese (whole milk is best for creaminess)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For Assembly:

• 9-12 lasagna noodles (oven-ready or regular, cooked according to package directions)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

First things first, let’s get our oven ready. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish. If you’re using regular lasagna noodles that need boiling, now’s the time to get a big pot of salted water on the stove. If you’re using oven-ready noodles, you can skip the boiling step entirely – they’re such a time-saver! A little spritz of cooking spray or a light brush of olive oil on the bottom of the baking dish can help prevent any sticking, though it’s usually not strictly necessary.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients (for Cheese Layer)

In a medium bowl, we’re going to combine the creamy cheese goodness. Add your ricotta cheese, the egg (this helps bind everything together and makes it super creamy), the grated Parmesan cheese, and the garlic powder. Give it a good stir until everything is well combined and smooth. Season it with a pinch of salt and a good grind of Black Pepper. Taste it, too – you want it to be flavorful on its own! I sometimes add a tiny pinch of nutmeg here if I’m feeling fancy; it just adds a subtle warmth.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients (for Chicken Filling)

Now for the star of the show: the buffalo chicken! In a separate large bowl, combine your shredded cooked chicken, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch or blue cheese dressing. If you’re using the optional celery and red onion, toss those in now too. Give it all a really good stir until every piece of chicken is beautifully coated in that glorious, spicy sauce. You want it to look vibrant and smell absolutely amazing. If you like it extra saucy, feel free to add a little more buffalo sauce!

Step 4: Combine (if applicable to noodles)

This step is only necessary if you are using regular lasagna noodles that you’ve just boiled and drained. If you are using oven-ready noodles, you can skip this step entirely. If you have boiled your noodles, gently lay them out on a clean surface, like a baking sheet or parchment paper, in a single layer. This prevents them from sticking together into one giant noodle blob. You don’t want them to dry out completely, but just enough so they’re not swimming in water.

Step 5: Prepare Filling (if needed for specific noodles)

If you’re using oven-ready noodles, this step is essentially done as part of Step 3! The buffalo chicken mixture is our “filling.” If you cooked regular noodles, ensure they are drained well and ready to go. The key is to have all your components prepared and ready for assembly so you can move smoothly through the layering process.

Step 6: Layer & Swirl

Now for the fun part – assembly! Spread about a quarter of the buffalo chicken mixture evenly over the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Then, arrange a layer of lasagna noodles over the chicken (you’ll use about 3-4 noodles per layer). Spoon about half of the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the noodles. Sprinkle about a third of the mozzarella cheese over the ricotta. Repeat these layers: another quarter of the chicken mixture, another layer of noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, and another third of the mozzarella cheese. Finally, spread the last of the buffalo chicken mixture on top, then finish with the remaining mozzarella cheese. For an extra touch, you can drizzle a tiny bit more ranch or blue cheese dressing over the top layer before the mozzarella, if you like!

Step 7: Bake

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This helps the lasagna cook evenly and prevents the top from getting too brown before the inside is heated through. Bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue to bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has lovely golden-brown spots. You can poke a knife into the center; it should slide in easily, indicating the noodles are tender and everything is heated through. The smell that will waft from your oven during this time is just incredible!

Step 8: Cool & Glaze

This is a crucial step, and it’s so tempting to dive right in, but patience is a virtue here! Once the lasagna comes out of the oven, let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes. This allows the layers to set, making it much easier to cut and serve neat slices. If you’re adding a drizzle of extra buffalo sauce or a dollop of ranch/blue cheese for serving, you can do that now. I sometimes like to sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives over the top for a pop of color and freshness right before serving.

Step 9: Slice & Serve

After resting, use a sharp knife to slice the lasagna into generous portions. Serve it hot, and watch it disappear! It’s wonderful on its own, but I’ve also included some serving suggestions below to make your meal even more complete. Enjoy every delicious bite of your homemade buffalo chicken lasagna!

What to Serve It With

This buffalo chicken lasagna is so hearty and flavorful that it honestly stands on its own as a complete meal. However, if you’re looking to round out your spread or serve it for a special occasion, I’ve got some fantastic ideas that pair beautifully with its spicy, creamy profile.

For a Hearty Family Dinner: The obvious choice is a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. The crispness of fresh greens cuts through the richness of the lasagna perfectly. We also love serving it with some garlic bread or crusty baguette slices for soaking up any extra cheesy sauce. If you want to add another vegetable, roasted broccoli or Green Beans are always a hit in my house.

For Game Day or Potlucks: This lasagna is a crowd-pleaser! On game days, I often serve it alongside some classic appetizers like chips and salsa, or maybe some celery and carrot sticks with extra ranch or blue cheese dip for those who want to amp up the cooling factor. It’s also great for potlucks because it travels well and is always a guaranteed hit. People always ask for the recipe when I bring this!

For a More Elegant Brunch (yes, really!): Don’t knock it ’til you try it! This lasagna can absolutely be served at brunch. For a slightly more refined presentation, serve smaller portions and pair it with a fresh Fruit Salad. A mimosa or a sparkling cider would be a perfect beverage to complement the richness. It’s an unexpected but delicious option for a weekend brunch that will definitely impress your guests.

For Cozy Comfort Food Nights: Sometimes, you just need pure comfort. On those nights, I like to serve this with a simple side of mashed potatoes (don’t judge!) or some sweet potato fries. It’s all about embracing the comfort food aspect. A cold beer or a glass of milk is the perfect accompaniment for these cozy nights. Whatever you choose, this buffalo chicken lasagna is sure to be a hit!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Buffalo Chicken Lasagna

Over the years, I’ve made this buffalo chicken lasagna countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks that I think really elevate it. Here are my top tips to ensure yours turns out absolutely perfect every single time!

Chicken Prep: Using rotisserie chicken is my secret weapon for speed and flavor. The pre-cooked chicken is already tender and seasoned. If you’re cooking chicken specifically for this, I recommend poaching or baking chicken breasts until just cooked through, then shredding them. Don’t overcook the chicken, or it can become dry in the lasagna. Make sure it’s shredded into bite-sized pieces so you get chicken in every bite!

Buffalo Sauce & Dressing Balance: The key to the buffalo chicken filling is the balance of sauce and dressing. I usually go with a 1:1 ratio of buffalo sauce to ranch or blue cheese dressing. This helps to temper the heat of the buffalo sauce and adds a wonderful creaminess. If you prefer it spicier, use more buffalo sauce and less dressing. If you’re sensitive to heat, definitely lean towards more dressing! Experiment to find your perfect balance.

Ricotta Mixture Magic: Don’t skip the egg in the ricotta mixture! It acts as a binder, preventing the ricotta layer from becoming watery and helping it set up nicely. Using whole milk ricotta also makes a significant difference in creaminess compared to part-skim. And a good grating of fresh Parmesan cheese really ups the flavor ante – pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.

Noodle Nuances: If you’re using oven-ready noodles, ensure they are fully covered by the wet ingredients during baking. They absorb liquid as they cook. If you’re boiling regular noodles, cook them just shy of al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Rinsing boiled noodles briefly with cool water can help stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together while you assemble.

Layering Logic: When you’re layering, try to spread each component as evenly as possible. This ensures that every slice gets a good mix of pasta, chicken, and cheese. For the cheese topping, don’t be shy with the mozzarella! That gooey, golden-brown crust is one of the best parts of any lasagna.

Baking Brilliance: Covering the lasagna with foil for the first part of baking is essential. It allows the heat to penetrate and cook everything through without burning the top. Removing the foil for the last 15-20 minutes lets the cheese get beautifully melted and golden. If your oven tends to run hot, you might need to adjust the time slightly or lower the temperature by 10-15 degrees.

Rest is Best: I can’t stress this enough – let the lasagna rest after baking! This is probably the hardest part because it smells so good, but it’s crucial. Resting allows the liquid to redistribute and the layers to firm up, making for much cleaner slices and a better eating experience. If you cut it too soon, it can become a sloppy mess.

Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have ranch or blue cheese dressing, a creamy Caesar dressing can work in a pinch. For a vegetarian option, you could try using crumbled firm tofu or shredded jackfruit tossed in buffalo sauce and layered with the creamy cheese mixture, though the chicken is really what makes this special. And of course, feel free to adjust the type of cheese – a blend of cheddar and mozzarella is also delicious!

Storing and Reheating Tips

One of the best things about this buffalo chicken lasagna is how well it stores and reheats. It’s truly a lifesaver for busy weeks or when you just want a delicious meal ready to go. Here’s how I like to handle leftovers:

Room Temperature: Honestly, I don’t recommend leaving this lasagna out at room temperature for more than two hours, as it contains dairy and cooked chicken. It’s best to get it into the fridge or freezer once it has cooled down a bit after serving.

Refrigerator Storage: Once the lasagna has cooled completely (this is important for food safety and to prevent condensation build-up), cut it into portions and store them in airtight containers. You can also wrap the entire pan tightly with plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. It will stay delicious in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. The flavors often meld even more overnight, making the leftovers taste fantastic!

Freezer Instructions: If you want to make a double batch or prepare ahead of time, freezing is your best friend. You can freeze the entire unbaked or baked lasagna (allow baked lasagna to cool completely first). Wrap it extremely well in several layers of plastic wrap and then a heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. If freezing an unbaked lasagna, you’ll want to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time. Baked lasagna will last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. For individual portions, freeze them in freezer-safe containers or wrap them well. Thaw frozen lasagna overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Glaze Timing Advice: If you plan to store your lasagna, it’s often best to add any extra drizzle of buffalo sauce or ranch dressing *after* reheating. This keeps the glaze fresh and prevents it from getting soggy during storage. If you’re freezing, definitely add any finishing drizzles once it’s reheated and ready to serve.

Reheating Baked Lasagna: For reheating individual slices, the microwave is the quickest option. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. For a larger portion or to maintain better texture, you can reheat it in the oven. Place slices in a baking dish with a tablespoon or two of water or broth, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can remove the foil for the last few minutes to crisp up the top a little. If reheating from frozen, add more time and ensure it’s heated through in the center.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my absolute favorite buffalo chicken lasagna! I truly hope you’ll give this recipe a try. It’s a dish that brings so much joy to my table, and I’m confident it will do the same for yours. It’s the perfect example of how combining two beloved comfort foods can create something entirely new and exciting. The balance of spice, creaminess, and savory goodness is just unparalleled, and the fact that it’s relatively simple to make makes it a weeknight hero and a party-pleaser all rolled into one.

If you’re someone who loves a little kick in your comfort food, or if you’re looking for a creative twist on traditional lasagna, this is definitely the recipe for you. It’s that perfect blend of familiar and fun. For those of you who enjoy exploring delicious pasta bakes, you might also want to check out my [Link to another popular pasta dish recipe] for another fantastic meal idea!

I can’t wait to hear what you think of this buffalo chicken lasagna! If you make it, please leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out, or share any variations you tried. Your feedback means the world to me! Happy cooking, and enjoy every single bite!

Buffalo Chicken Lasagna

A spicy and creamy buffalo chicken lasagna that's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This recipe combines the irresistible flavors of buffalo chicken with the comforting layers of lasagna.

Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

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Ingredients

  

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Main Ingredients

• 1.5 pound cooked chicken, shredded
• 0.5 cup buffalo sauce plus more for drizzling
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 0.5 cup ranch dressing
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 package lasagna noodles oven-ready
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

 

Preparation Steps

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, softened cream cheese, and ranch dressing. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined.
• In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese and the egg until smooth. Stir in half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the cheddar cheese.
• Spread a thin layer of the chicken mixture on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
• Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles over the chicken mixture. Top the noodles with half of the ricotta cheese mixture.
• Spread another layer of the chicken mixture over the ricotta cheese. Top with another layer of lasagna noodles.
• Top with the remaining chicken mixture, followed by the remaining lasagna noodles.
• Spread the remaining ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the top layer of noodles. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the top.
• Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 20 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the noodles are cooked through.
• Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra drizzle of buffalo sauce if desired.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time.