Buffalo Chicken Lasagna is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, combining the bold flavors of Buffalo chicken with the comforting layers of lasagna. This recipe is perfect for those who love a bit of spice and a lot of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just looking for a new family dinner idea, this Buffalo Chicken Lasagna is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1 cup Buffalo hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional, for extra Buffalo flavor!)
- 1/2 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
Directions and Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare Buffalo Chicken
In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with Buffalo hot sauce until well coated. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Assemble the Lasagna
- Spread a thin layer of the cheese sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Place 3 lasagna noodles on top.
- Layer with half of the Buffalo chicken, half of the ricotta cheese, and a third of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
- Repeat with another layer of noodles, remaining Buffalo chicken, ricotta, and another third of the shredded cheeses.
- Top with the final layer of noodles, the remaining cheese sauce, and the rest of the shredded cheeses. Sprinkle blue cheese crumbles on top if using.
Bake
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish and Serve
Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired. Serve with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side!
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap, cover with foil, and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the lasagna is cold from the fridge.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and cheddar are recommended for their melting qualities, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, provolone, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick.
3. How spicy is this lasagna?
The spiciness of the lasagna largely depends on the Buffalo hot sauce you use. If you prefer a milder dish, you can use a mild hot sauce or reduce the amount of hot sauce in the recipe. Conversely, if you love heat, feel free to add more hot sauce or even some crushed red pepper flakes.
4. Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Lasagna?
Yes, this lasagna freezes well. After assembling, cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, bake it straight from the freezer, adding extra time as needed to ensure it’s heated through.
5. What sides go well with Buffalo Chicken Lasagna?
This lasagna pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or even some roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish.
Conclusion
Buffalo Chicken Lasagna is a unique and flavorful dish that combines the best of both worlds: the spicy, tangy taste of Buffalo chicken and the comforting, cheesy layers of traditional lasagna. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. With its easy preparation and customizable spice level, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious twist on a classic dish!