Name: Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 tbsp unsalted butter; ¼ cup all purpose flour; 1 quart whole milk; 8 oz Blue Cheese Crumbles; ½ tsp kosher salt; ground black pepper; 4 cups chicken; 1 cup hot sauce; 8 oz lasagna noodles; 8 oz Mozzarella cheese

This unique blend of flavors in Buffalo Chicken Lasagna is an exciting twist on traditional lasagna. Perfect for those who love spicy food and Italian cuisine, this dish combines creamy, spicy buffalo chicken with layers of pasta and cheese. It's a tasty treat that's sure to impress at any dinner party.

Photos of Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe

Some ingredients listed might not be readily available in your pantry. Blue cheese crumbles, a type of cheese known for its strong aroma and flavor, is a key ingredient in this recipe but is not a staple in all kitchens. The hot sauce used should preferably be a buffalo style hot sauce for that authentic spicy kick. If you are unable to find these at your local supermarket, they can easily be ordered online.

Key Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Lasagna

Unsalted butter: This is used to create a creamy cheese sauce and adds a rich flavor to the dish.

All purpose flour: An essential ingredient for making the roux which is the base of the cheese sauce.

Whole milk: This adds creaminess to the cheese sauce.

Blue cheese crumbles: Adds a tangy flavor to the cheese sauce.

Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings for flavor enhancement.

Chicken: The key protein in this dish. You can use cooked and shredded chicken.

Hot sauce: Adds the spicy kick to the chicken.

Lasagna noodles: These are the layers in your lasagna.

Mozzarella cheese: Adds gooeyness and cheesy flavor to the lasagna.

One reader, Doralia Thomson says:

This buffalo chicken lasagna recipe is a game-changer! The combination of spicy chicken, creamy blue cheese sauce, and gooey mozzarella is simply divine. It's a crowd-pleaser and perfect for gatherings. The flavors are spot on, and it's surprisingly easy to make. I highly recommend trying it out!

Doralia Thomson

Key Techniques for Making Buffalo Chicken Lasagna

How to make the bleu cheese sauce: This involves making a roux by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat, adding the flour, and cooking until bubbly and slightly golden. Then, slowly whisk the milk into the butter-flour mixture, bringing it to a simmer, and cooking until the mixture has thickened slightly and seems creamy. Finally, adding the blue cheese, salt, and black pepper, and stirring until the cheese has melted.

How to toss the chicken with hot sauce: Simply place the chicken in a bowl and pour the hot sauce over it. Then, toss the chicken until it is evenly coated with the hot sauce.

How to assemble the lasagna: This involves spreading a few spoonfuls of cheese sauce over the bottom of a 9x13-inch (3-quart) baking dish, arranging a single layer of pasta sheets on top of the sauce, and layering with the shredded chicken mixture, blue cheese sauce, and mozzarella cheese. This process is repeated two more times, finishing with a final layer of noodles, the remaining blue cheese sauce, and the remaining mozzarella.

How to bake the lasagna: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake until bubbling and lightly browned around the edges, about 10 minutes more. Finally, cool the lasagna for about 15 minutes before serving.

How To Make Buffalo Chicken Lasagna

Buffalo chicken lasagna unites two strong dishes into one powerhouse meal. Spicy chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and lasagna noodles are all layered together.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 45 minutes

Total: 1 hour 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4tbspunsalted butter,(½ stick)
¼cupall purpose flour
1quartwhole milk
8ozblue cheese crumbles
½tspkosher salt
ground black pepper
4cupschicken,cooked, shredded
1cuphot sauce
8ozlasagna noodles,package, oven ready
8ozmozzarella cheese,shredded

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Make a roux by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat; add the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until bubbly and slightly golden. Slowly whisk the milk into the butter-flour mixture. At first, the mixture will seize up and look crumbly, but will smooth out as you keep adding milk and whisking. Once all the milk is added, bring to a simmer. Whisk frequently, scraping along the bottom of the pan, so as not to burn. Cook until the mixture has thickened slightly and seems creamy, 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from the heat and add the blue cheese, salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Stir until the cheese has melted. Taste and add additional salt and pepper as needed.
In a separate bowl, toss the chicken with the hot sauce until evenly coated.
Spread a few spoonfuls of cheese sauce over the bottom of a 9×13-inch (3-quart) baking dish. Arrange a single layer of pasta sheets on top of the sauce. Layer with a third of the shredded chicken mixture, about 1 cup of the blue cheese sauce, and then about half a cup of mozzarella cheese.
Repeat this process 2 more times. Finish with a final layer of noodles, the remaining blue cheese sauce, and the remaining mozzarella.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for 10 more minutes until bubbling and lightly browned around the edges.
Cool about 15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 393.96kcal
Fat: 24.00g
Saturated Fat: 12.50g
Trans Fat: 0.20g
Monounsaturated Fat: 7.41g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.27g
Carbohydrates: 21.65g
Fiber: 0.89g
Sugar: 5.15g
Protein: 22.30g
Cholesterol: 84.31mg
Sodium: 917.14mg
Calcium: 315.31mg
Potassium: 339.67mg
Iron: 1.06mg
Vitamin A: 165.25µg
Vitamin C: 14.81mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Buffalo Chicken Lasagna

When making the blue cheese sauce, it's important to add the milk gradually to the butter-flour mixture. This process, known as tempering, prevents the sauce from becoming lumpy. If you add all the milk at once, the temperature difference can cause the flour to clump together, resulting in a grainy sauce. By adding the milk slowly and whisking continuously, you'll ensure a smooth and creamy sauce. Also, remember to taste your sauce after adding the cheese, salt, and pepper. This allows you to adjust the seasoning to your preference, ensuring a well-balanced flavor in your buffalo chicken lasagna.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the buffalo chicken and bleu cheese sauce a day in advance to save time on the day of cooking.

Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking and shredding the chicken yourself.

No-boil noodles: Consider using no-boil lasagna noodles to skip the step of boiling the noodles before assembling the lasagna.

Double batch: Make a double batch of the bleu cheese sauce and freeze half for future use, saving time on the next buffalo chicken lasagna.

Pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded mozzarella cheese to eliminate the step of shredding the cheese yourself.

Bake in advance: Prepare the lasagna a day ahead and refrigerate, then bake it just before serving to save time on the day of serving.

Substitute Ingredients For Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe

unsalted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter, and it adds a subtle fruity flavor to the dish.
all purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour: For those with gluten sensitivities, using gluten-free flour will ensure the dish is suitable for their dietary needs.
whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, and it adds a slightly nutty flavor to the dish.
blue cheese crumbles - Substitute with gorgonzola cheese: Gorgonzola cheese has a similar tangy and pungent flavor to blue cheese, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of salinity to the dish.
chicken - Substitute with shredded turkey: Shredded turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to chicken, and it complements the buffalo flavor in the lasagna.
hot sauce - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha can be used as a substitute for hot sauce, adding a slightly different flavor profile with a hint of garlic and sweetness.
lasagna noodles - Substitute with zucchini slices: Zucchini slices can be used as a low-carb alternative to lasagna noodles, adding a lighter and healthier twist to the dish.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese can be used as a substitute for mozzarella, providing a rich and sharp flavor to the lasagna.

How to Beautifully Present Buffalo Chicken Lasagna

Elevate the plating: When presenting the buffalo chicken lasagna, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use clean lines and carefully layer the lasagna for a professional and elegant appearance.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a pop of color and freshness to the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or chives. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a hint of freshness to each serving.
Incorporate a drizzle design: Before serving, consider adding a decorative drizzle of hot sauce or a contrasting sauce in an artistic design on the plate. This adds a touch of finesse and sophistication to the overall presentation.
Use high-quality serving ware: Opt for elegant, high-quality serving dishes and utensils to showcase the buffalo chicken lasagna. This attention to detail will elevate the dining experience and impress the judges with your commitment to presentation.
Balance the colors: Pay attention to the color composition on the plate. Ensure that the lasagna, sauce, and garnishes create a harmonious and visually appealing color palette, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal of the dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Buffalo Chicken Lasagna

Saucepan: A saucepan is a deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, typically used for making sauces, heating liquids, or cooking small quantities of food.
Whisk: A whisk is a kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients such as eggs, sauces, and batters. It consists of a handle with a long, narrow, and often looped wire head.
Baking dish: A baking dish is a deep, oven-safe dish used for baking or roasting food. It can be made of glass, ceramic, or metal and comes in various sizes and shapes.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is a deep bowl used for combining ingredients, mixing batters, or marinating foods. It is typically made of ceramic, glass, or stainless steel.
Foil: Foil, short for aluminum foil, is a thin, pliable sheet of aluminum used for wrapping, covering, and lining pans during cooking and baking to prevent food from sticking and to retain moisture.
Oven: An oven is a kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food. It provides controlled heat for cooking a wide variety of dishes.
Knife: A knife is a sharp-edged utensil used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients. Different types of knives serve various culinary purposes.
Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are used to accurately measure and portion ingredients in cooking and baking recipes. They come in various sizes and are essential for precise measurements.
Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, pureeing, and mixing ingredients. It consists of a motorized base with interchangeable blades and attachments.
Grater: A grater is a kitchen tool with a rough or serrated surface used to shred or grate ingredients such as cheese, vegetables, or citrus zest.
Spatula: A spatula is a flat, flexible utensil used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients during cooking and baking. It is commonly made of silicone, rubber, or metal.
Cheese grater: A cheese grater is a kitchen tool specifically designed for grating cheese into fine or coarse shreds. It typically has multiple grating surfaces for different textures.
Cutting board: A cutting board is a flat, sturdy surface used for cutting, slicing, and preparing ingredients. It helps protect countertops and provides a safe and stable cutting area.
Lid: A lid is a cover used to enclose and seal pots, pans, and dishes during cooking to retain heat and moisture. It can be made of glass, metal, or other heat-resistant materials.
Aluminum foil: Aluminum foil is a thin, pliable sheet of aluminum used for wrapping, covering, and lining pans during cooking and baking to prevent food from sticking and to retain moisture.

Storing and Freezing Buffalo Chicken Lasagna for Later

Let the buffalo chicken lasagna cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the lasagna soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. The lasagna will keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, freeze the lasagna. You can freeze it in the baking dish, tightly covered with plastic wrap and then foil, or you can cut it into individual portions and freeze them separately:
- If freezing the whole lasagna, make sure the baking dish is freezer-safe.
- If freezing individual portions, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Frozen buffalo chicken lasagna will keep well for up to 3 months.
To reheat the frozen lasagna, you can either thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake it in a 350°F oven until heated through (about 30-45 minutes), or you can bake it directly from frozen. If baking from frozen, increase the baking time to 60-75 minutes, and cover the dish with foil for the first 45 minutes to prevent the top from browning too much.
Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.

How To Reheat Lasagna Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover lasagna in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until the lasagna is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to get a crispy top layer.
If you have a toaster oven, you can reheat individual portions of buffalo chicken lasagna quickly and easily. Place a slice of lasagna on a toaster oven-safe plate and heat it at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it's heated through and the cheese is melted.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place a single serving of lasagna on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until it's heated through. Be careful not to overheat it, as the cheese can become rubbery and the noodles can become mushy.
If you want to reheat a large portion of lasagna without drying it out, try using the stovetop method. Place the lasagna in a large, oven-safe skillet and add a few tablespoons of water or chicken broth to the pan. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat it over medium-low heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the lasagna is heated through and the cheese is melted.
For a crispy top layer, you can also reheat the lasagna under the broiler. Place the lasagna in an oven-safe dish and broil it for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top layer is crispy. Keep a close eye on it to make sure it doesn't burn.

Interesting Trivia About Buffalo Chicken Lasagna

Buffalo chicken lasagna is a unique twist on the traditional Italian dish, combining the flavors of spicy buffalo chicken with creamy blue cheese sauce. This dish is perfect for those who love a little heat in their meals and enjoy experimenting with new flavors.

Is Making Buffalo Chicken Lasagna at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this buffalo chicken lasagna recipe largely depends on the availability and prices of the ingredients. The use of chicken, blue cheese, and hot sauce may make it slightly more expensive than traditional lasagna recipes. However, the versatility of the dish and the potential for leftovers could make it a worthwhile investment. Considering the quantity and quality of the ingredients, this recipe could be rated a 7 in terms of cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $30-$40, factoring in the use of high-quality cheese and chicken.

Is Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Healthy or Unhealthy?

The buffalo chicken lasagna recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe is high in saturated fat due to the generous amounts of butter, whole milk, blue cheese, and mozzarella cheese used. Consuming excessive saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues.
The use of all-purpose flour in the roux contributes to the dish's high carbohydrate content, which may not be ideal for those following a low-carb diet.
The hot sauce used to coat the chicken likely contains a significant amount of sodium, which can lead to high blood pressure when consumed in excess.
The recipe lacks vegetables, which are essential for providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace some of the whole milk with low-fat or skim milk to reduce the overall fat content.
Use whole wheat lasagna noodles instead of regular ones to increase the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates.
Incorporate vegetables into the lasagna layers, such as sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers, to boost the nutrient profile and add more flavor and texture to the dish.
Opt for a lower-sodium hot sauce or reduce the amount used to coat the chicken to help control the dish's sodium content.
Use a combination of reduced-fat blue cheese and mozzarella to maintain the cheesy flavor while cutting down on the saturated fat.

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of the buffalo chicken lasagna that still satisfies your cravings for a comforting, flavorful meal.

Editor's Opinion on This Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe

The buffalo chicken lasagna recipe is a bold and flavorful twist on a classic dish. The creamy blue cheese sauce adds a rich and tangy element, while the spicy chicken brings a kick of heat. The layers of lasagna noodles and gooey mozzarella cheese create a comforting and satisfying texture. This recipe is a perfect combination of classic comfort food and spicy, tangy flavors, making it a standout dish for any occasion.

Enhance Your Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: Roasted broccoli with a crispy garlic parmesan crust, a perfect complement to the spicy buffalo chicken lasagna.

Honey Sriracha Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots glazed with a sweet and spicy honey sriracha sauce, adding a pop of flavor to your buffalo chicken lasagna.

Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: Asparagus spears wrapped in crispy bacon, a savory and indulgent side dish to enjoy alongside your buffalo chicken lasagna.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Like Buffalo Chicken Lasagna

Spicy Beef Tacos: These tacos are packed with flavor and heat, perfect for a spicy food lover. The combination of tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a kick of spice will have your taste buds dancing.

Mango Salsa Chicken: This dish is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with juicy mango salsa topping tender chicken. It's a refreshing and light meal that's perfect for a summer day.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy soup is a comforting classic, with the rich flavors of tomato and basil coming together in a velvety smooth texture. It's the perfect dish for a cozy night in.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Buffalo Chicken Lasagna

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any gathering and will leave your guests wanting more.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Whip up a creamy and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip that is perfect for dipping bread, crackers, or vegetables. This classic appetizer is always a hit at parties and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and luscious texture of a classic strawberry cheesecake, topped with a vibrant and tangy strawberry compote for a delightful and refreshing treat.

Why trust this Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe:

This recipe offers a unique twist on traditional lasagna, incorporating buffalo chicken and blue cheese flavors for a delicious and satisfying meal. The creamy blue cheese sauce is made from scratch, ensuring a rich and authentic taste. The use of hot sauce adds a spicy kick to the dish, creating a perfect balance of flavors. With clear instructions and quality ingredients such as mozzarella cheese and chicken, this recipe guarantees a mouthwatering experience that will surely impress anyone who loves bold and savory comfort food.

If you've tried this Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe or have any tips to share, head over to the Recipe Sharing section of the forum and join the discussion!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of blue cheese?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of cheese if you're not a fan of blue cheese. You can try using shredded cheddar, gouda, or even a combination of different cheeses to suit your taste preferences.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it later?

Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake it. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil before refrigerating. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply bake it according to the recipe instructions.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe to save time. Simply shred or chop the pre-cooked chicken and toss it with the hot sauce as directed in the recipe.

Can I adjust the level of spiciness in the dish?

Of course! If you prefer a milder or spicier flavor, you can adjust the amount of hot sauce to suit your taste. Feel free to add more or less hot sauce based on your preference for heat.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover buffalo chicken lasagna. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil before placing it in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply thaw and reheat it in the oven until warmed through.