Buffalo Chicken Lasagna

Introduction: Can your favorite game-day flavors transform into a comforting pasta dish?

Absolutely! Buffalo Chicken Lasagna is the ultimate mash-up—combining the bold, spicy tang of Buffalo wings with the cheesy, layered goodness of lasagna. It’s the best of both worlds in one bubbly, oven-baked dish. Perfect for tailgates, potlucks, or cozy weeknight dinners, this lasagna is a flavor explosion you’ll crave again and again.

Overview: Why You’ll Love This Dish

Buffalo Chicken Lasagna is not only rich and hearty, but it’s also surprisingly balanced. The spicy sauce is mellowed by creamy ricotta and tangy blue cheese, while the veggies add a touch of sweetness and texture.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour (plus 10-minute rest)
• Skill Level: Intermediate
• Perfect For: Buffalo wing lovers, pasta night, dinner parties

Essential Ingredients and Why They Matter

• Canola Oil (1 tbsp): For sautéing and flavor foundation.
• Ground Chicken (1½ lbs): Lean protein that absorbs Buffalo flavor well.
• Onion, Celery & Carrot: Classic aromatic base that adds depth.
• Garlic (2 cloves): Bold, savory note to balance the heat.
• Diced Tomatoes (14.5 oz, drained): Adds body and subtle sweetness.
• Buffalo Wing Sauce (12 oz bottle): Brings bold, spicy flavor.
• Water (½ cup): Helps simmer the sauce to the perfect consistency.
• Italian Seasoning, Salt, Pepper: Adds balance to the bold sauce.
• Lasagna Noodles (9): The structure of the dish—hold it all together.
• Ricotta Cheese (15 oz carton): Creamy and mild, balances spice.
• Blue Cheese (1¾ cups, crumbled): Signature tangy flavor that defines the dish.
• Flat-Leaf Parsley (½ cup, minced): Adds freshness.
• Egg (1, beaten): Binds the ricotta mixture.
• Mozzarella Cheese (3 cups, shredded): Melt factor!
• White Cheddar (2 cups, shredded): Creamy, sharp flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Sauce:
   • In a Dutch oven, heat canola oil.
   • Sauté chicken, onion, celery, and carrot until chicken is cooked and vegetables are tender.
   • Add garlic; cook for 2 minutes.
   • Stir in drained tomatoes, wing sauce, water, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
   • Bring to a boil, then simmer for 1 hour, covered.
2. Cook the Noodles:
   • Boil lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
   • In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, ¾ cup blue cheese, parsley, and beaten egg.
4. Preheat Oven to 350°F.
5. Assemble the Lasagna:
   • Spread 1½ cups of sauce in a greased 13×9-inch baking dish.
   • Layer 3 noodles, 1½ cups sauce, ⅔ cup ricotta mixture, 1 cup mozzarella, ⅔ cup white cheddar, and ⅓ cup blue cheese.
   • Repeat layers twice more (3 total).
6. Bake:
   • Cover and bake for 20 minutes.
   • Uncover and bake an additional 20–25 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
   • Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Assembly and Presentation Tips

• Sprinkle extra parsley or blue cheese crumbles on top before serving.
• Serve with a side salad and crusty bread to balance the richness.
• Use a sharp knife to get clean slices—let it rest fully!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Store: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Microwave or bake covered until hot.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze unbaked or baked portions up to 2 months.
• Make-Ahead: Assemble a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Recipe Variations

• Ranch Twist: Use ranch dressing mix in the ricotta layer.
• Spice Level: Adjust heat with more or less wing sauce.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap ground chicken for seasoned tofu crumbles or a veggie mix.
• Extra Cheesy: Add a layer of provolone or pepper jack for even more melt.

Conclusion: A New Comfort Food Favorite

Buffalo Chicken Lasagna takes everything you love about Buffalo wings and layers it into a cheesy, spicy, unforgettable lasagna. It’s a unique dish that brings bold flavor and crowd-pleasing comfort to your dinner table.

Print

FAQs

1. Can I use no-boil noodles? Yes, just add extra sauce between layers to ensure they cook properly.

2. Is it too spicy? It’s medium-spicy. Use mild wing sauce or add extra cheese to mellow it.

3. Can I substitute cream cheese for ricotta? You can, but it will be denser and richer.

4. What side dishes go well? A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or celery sticks with ranch.

5. Can I make it gluten-free? Yes! Use GF noodles and check your sauce ingredients.

6. Can I prep it ahead? Definitely. Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours ahead.

7. Can I cook the sauce in advance? Yes, the sauce can be made 2 days ahead and stored chilled.

8. Can I use rotisserie chicken? Sure—just shred it and skip the browning step.

9. How do I make it less tangy? Use less blue cheese or swap some for shredded mozzarella.

10. Can I freeze individual portions? Yes! Wrap each slice and store for quick meals anytime.