Buffalo Chicken Lasagna: The Perfect Cheesy Dinner Recipe

Are You Craving Comfort Food With a Kick?

In a world full of predictable dinners, there’s a special kind of magic in a dish that surprises and delights. Imagine the familiar, soul-warming embrace of classic lasagna, but with a bold, tangy, and slightly spicy twist. That’s precisely what this Buffalo Chicken Lasagna offers. On average, Americans consume over 50 pounds of chicken per year, making it a perennial favorite. But how often do we truly innovate with it? This recipe aims to do just that, taking inspiration from the iconic buffalo chicken wings and transforming it into a hearty, cheesy, and utterly irresistible baked pasta. If you’re a fan of creamy, spicy, and cheesy goodness, you’re in for a treat. This isn’t just dinner; it’s an experience that will have your family begging for seconds and your taste buds singing.

Ingredients

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to culinary success. This Buffalo Chicken Lasagna uses a delightful combination of pantry staples and fresh components to achieve its signature flavor profile.

For the Buffalo Chicken Filling

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut) – tender, juicy morsels ready to absorb flavor
• 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (your favorite brand) – the vibrant, tangy heart of the dish
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing (creamy and zesty) – adds a cool, herbaceous counterpoint to the heat
• 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, but highly recommended for authentic flavor) – sharp, pungent bursts of cheesy delight

For the Creamy Ranch Layer

• 15 ounces ricotta cheese (whole milk for richness is best) – velvety smooth and subtly sweet
• 1 large egg – acts as a binder, ensuring a cohesive layer
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a nutty, salty depth
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 2 teaspoons dried) – bright, fresh herbaceous notes
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – a warm, savory foundation
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – to enhance all the other glorious flavors

For the Lasagna Assembly

• 9-12 lasagna noodles (oven-ready or pre-cooked and drained) – the sturdy canvas for our creation
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – melty, gooey, golden perfection
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your preference) – adds another layer of cheesy complexity and color

Substitutions and Variations

• Chicken: Pulled pork or even extra firm tofu (pressed and crumbled) can be used for a different protein.
• Buffalo Sauce: If you prefer milder heat, use less sauce or a milder hot sauce mixed with a little butter. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Ranch Dressing: A creamy blue cheese dressing can be used for an even bolder flavor.
• Blue Cheese: If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, omit it or substitute with extra mozzarella or cheddar.
• Noodles: Gluten-free lasagna noodles are readily available and work beautifully.

Timing Is Everything

Let’s get down to the practicalities. Knowing your timings helps you plan your meal prep efficiently and enjoy a perfectly cooked dish. This Buffalo Chicken Lasagna is a dish that requires some assembly time but bakes into a rewarding meal.

Compared to a classic lasagna which often involves making a meat sauce and béchamel, this recipe is significantly quicker due to the use of pre-cooked chicken and a simpler assembly process. While traditional lasagna can take well over an hour for prep and 2-3 hours for total time depending on sauce simmering, this flavor-packed twist is perfect for a weeknight.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Buffalo Chicken Lasagna. Get ready for some serious comfort food!

1. Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or a little butter. This essential step prevents your beautiful lasagna from sticking.

2. Cook the Chicken

If you haven’t already, cook your chicken. The easiest method is to boil or bake chicken breasts until cooked through, then shred them with two forks. Alternatively, a store-bought rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds wonderful flavor.

3. Make the Buffalo Chicken Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch dressing. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated. If you’re using blue cheese, gently fold in the crumbled blue cheese now. This mixture is already bursting with flavor!

4. Prepare the Ranch Ricotta Layer

In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined and smooth. This creamy, herbaceous layer will be a delightful contrast to the spicy chicken.

5. Assemble the Lasagna

Now for the fun part: layering! Spread about one-third of the ricotta mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This creates a creamy base. Next, arrange a single layer of lasagna noodles over the ricotta. If using oven-ready noodles, they can go in dry. If using pre-cooked, ensure they are drained well.

Spread half of the buffalo chicken mixture evenly over the noodles. Sprinkle about one-third of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the chicken layer. Repeat the layers: another third of the ricotta mixture, a layer of noodles, the remaining half of the buffalo chicken mixture, and another third of the cheese blend.

Finish with the remaining third of the ricotta mixture, followed by the last layer of noodles, and then top generously with the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Ensure the top layer of noodles is completely covered with cheese to prevent them from drying out.

6. Bake to Golden Perfection

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly, and the lasagna is heated through. The edges should be wonderfully crisp!

7. Rest and Serve

This is probably the hardest step: letting it rest. Once out of the oven, let the lasagna stand for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the layers to set, making it much easier to cut neat portions. Serve hot and enjoy the amazing flavor!

Nutritional Information

Below is an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving. Please note that this can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

• Calories: Approximately 450-550 kcal
• Protein: 30-40g
• Fat: 25-35g
• Carbohydrates: 20-30g
• Sodium: Varies greatly with sauce and cheese choices

Healthier Alternatives

Want to lighten up this indulgent dish without sacrificing flavor? Try these swaps:

• Leaner Protein: Use lean chicken breast and minimize added fats when cooking.
• Reduced-Fat Cheeses: Opt for reduced-fat ricotta, mozzarella, and cheddar.
• Whole Wheat Noodles: Use whole wheat lasagna noodles for added fiber and nutrients.
• Greek Yogurt Base: Replace some or all of the ricotta with plain, non-fat Greek yogurt for a protein boost and reduced fat.
• Lower Sodium Sauces: Choose lower-sodium buffalo wing sauce and add your own spices for flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This rich lasagna pairs wonderfully with lighter sides to balance the flavors:

• A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette
• Steamed or roasted broccoli or green beans
• Garlic bread or crusty rolls for soaking up any extra sauce

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Buffalo Chicken Lasagna is a triumph:

• Undercooking Noodles: If using oven-ready noodles, ensure they are well-covered with sauce and cheese to properly hydrate. If using pre-cooked, ensure they are fully drained to avoid a watery lasagna.
• Not Letting it Rest: Patience is key! Resting allows the lasagna to set, preventing a soupy mess when you cut into it.
• Over-Saucing: Too much liquid can make the lasagna watery. Ensure your chicken mixture isn’t swimming in sauce.
• Skipping the Blue Cheese (if you like it): It adds a distinct tang that complements the buffalo sauce beautifully.

Storing Tips

Leftovers are the best! Store cooled lasagna tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Conclusion

This Buffalo Chicken Lasagna is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures. It’s the perfect way to shake up your dinner routine and satisfy those cravings for something both familiar and exciting. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply looking for a show-stopping weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and prepare for a dish that’s guaranteed to be a hit!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Cheesy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Lasagna

• Author: Chef Mia

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Description

This indulgent and flavor-packed lasagna combines the tangy heat of buffalo sauce with creamy ranch, tender shredded chicken, and gooey layers of cheese. A perfect twist on classic comfort food for buffalo chicken lovers!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• Lasagna:12 ounceslasagna noodles3 ½ cupsrotisserie chicken, shreddedCheese Mixture:1packet ranch seasoning24 ouncescream cheese, softened1 cupbuffalo sauce½ cupmilk2 cupscheddar cheese, shredded2 cupsmozzarella cheese, shreddedOptional Toppings:Ranch dressingGreen onions, choppedBlue cheese crumbles
• 12 ounceslasagna noodles3 ½ cupsrotisserie chicken, shredded
• 3 ½ cupsrotisserie chicken, shredded
• Cheese Mixture:1packet ranch seasoning24 ouncescream cheese, softened1 cupbuffalo sauce½ cupmilk2 cupscheddar cheese, shredded2 cupsmozzarella cheese, shreddedOptional Toppings:Ranch dressingGreen onions, choppedBlue cheese crumbles
• 1packet ranch seasoning24 ouncescream cheese, softened1 cupbuffalo sauce½ cupmilk2 cupscheddar cheese, shredded2 cupsmozzarella cheese, shredded
• 24 ouncescream cheese, softened1 cupbuffalo sauce½ cupmilk2 cupscheddar cheese, shredded2 cupsmozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cupbuffalo sauce½ cupmilk2 cupscheddar cheese, shredded2 cupsmozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cupmilk2 cupscheddar cheese, shredded2 cupsmozzarella cheese, shredded
• 2 cupscheddar cheese, shredded2 cupsmozzarella cheese, shredded
• 2 cupsmozzarella cheese, shredded
• Optional Toppings:Ranch dressingGreen onions, choppedBlue cheese crumbles
• Ranch dressingGreen onions, choppedBlue cheese crumbles
• Green onions, choppedBlue cheese crumbles
• Blue cheese crumbles

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Instructions

1. 1️⃣Prepare the Cheese Mixture:In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning, buffalo sauce, milk, cheddar cheese, and 1 ½ cups of the mozzarella cheese. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.2️⃣Cook the Lasagna Noodles:Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay flat on a clean surface to prevent sticking.3️⃣Assemble the Lasagna:Spread a thin layer of the cheese mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.Lay down a layer of lasagna noodles.Spread another layer of the cheese mixture on top of the noodles, followed by a layer of shredded chicken.Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of the cheese mixture on top. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the final layer.4️⃣Bake:Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes.Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.5️⃣Rest and Serve:Let the lasagna rest for 8–10 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set. Garnish with optional toppings such as ranch dressing drizzle, chopped green onions, or blue cheese crumbles.
2. 2️⃣Cook the Lasagna Noodles:Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay flat on a clean surface to prevent sticking.
3. 3️⃣Assemble the Lasagna:Spread a thin layer of the cheese mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.Lay down a layer of lasagna noodles.Spread another layer of the cheese mixture on top of the noodles, followed by a layer of shredded chicken.Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of the cheese mixture on top. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the final layer.4️⃣Bake:Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes.Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.5️⃣Rest and Serve:Let the lasagna rest for 8–10 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set. Garnish with optional toppings such as ranch dressing drizzle, chopped green onions, or blue cheese crumbles.
4. Spread a thin layer of the cheese mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.Lay down a layer of lasagna noodles.Spread another layer of the cheese mixture on top of the noodles, followed by a layer of shredded chicken.Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of the cheese mixture on top. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the final layer.4️⃣Bake:Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes.Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.5️⃣Rest and Serve:Let the lasagna rest for 8–10 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set. Garnish with optional toppings such as ranch dressing drizzle, chopped green onions, or blue cheese crumbles.
5. Lay down a layer of lasagna noodles.
6. Spread another layer of the cheese mixture on top of the noodles, followed by a layer of shredded chicken.Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of the cheese mixture on top. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the final layer.4️⃣Bake:Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes.Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.5️⃣Rest and Serve:Let the lasagna rest for 8–10 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set. Garnish with optional toppings such as ranch dressing drizzle, chopped green onions, or blue cheese crumbles.
7. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of the cheese mixture on top. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the final layer.4️⃣Bake:Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes.Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.5️⃣Rest and Serve:Let the lasagna rest for 8–10 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set. Garnish with optional toppings such as ranch dressing drizzle, chopped green onions, or blue cheese crumbles.
8. 4️⃣Bake:
9. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes.Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.5️⃣Rest and Serve:Let the lasagna rest for 8–10 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set. Garnish with optional toppings such as ranch dressing drizzle, chopped green onions, or blue cheese crumbles.
10. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.5️⃣Rest and Serve:Let the lasagna rest for 8–10 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set. Garnish with optional toppings such as ranch dressing drizzle, chopped green onions, or blue cheese crumbles.
11. 5️⃣Rest and Serve:Let the lasagna rest for 8–10 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set. Garnish with optional toppings such as ranch dressing drizzle, chopped green onions, or blue cheese crumbles.

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Notes

Customizations:Swap chicken with cooked ground beef or turkey for a different protein.Mild Version:Use less buffalo sauce or mix in a bit of additional milk to tone down the heat.Storage:Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.Make Ahead:Assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
Mild Version:Use less buffalo sauce or mix in a bit of additional milk to tone down the heat.Storage:Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.Make Ahead:Assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
Storage:Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.Make Ahead:Assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
Make Ahead:Assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake as directed when ready to serve.