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Buffalo Ranch Chicken Lasagna brings together all the bold flavors of buffalo chicken wings, creamy ranch, and cheesy classic lasagna in one showstopping dish. With tender rotisserie chicken layered with creamy cheeses and a zippy buffalo sauce, this has quickly become my family's most requested comfort food when cozy nights roll in or game day is coming up.
After one bite of this hot bubbling lasagna with the ranch and buffalo sauce mingling through, my family practically cheers at the table. This recipe was first made for a snowy January birthday and now makes an appearance any time we crave something special.
Ingredients
- Lasagna noodles: Chosen for their sturdy texture and ability to hold up to rich fillings I like buying the classic kind you boil for a bit more structure but any high-quality noodle works
- Rotisserie chicken: Gives juicy shredded chicken without extra cooking Look for birds with crisp skin and lots of moisture inside the package
- Buffalo sauce: Delivers that signature tangy heat I love using one with real butter and good chili flavor so taste before buying
- Ranch seasoning: Brings all those creamy herby notes Use a packet or make your own with quality dried herbs
- Mozzarella cheese: Melty and gooey Look for blocks you shred yourself for the best melt and cleanest flavor
- Cheddar cheese: Adds sharp cheesy bite and balances richness Go for an aged cheddar and shred fresh if possible
- Cream cheese: Makes the layers extra creamy Choose a full-fat variety for the silkiest result
- Milk: Helps loosen the cheese filling so it spreads evenly I use 2 percent or whole
- Green onions: Add fresh pop and crunch Use the freshest you can find with deep green tops and crisp white ends
- Blue cheese crumbles: For that classic buffalo wing feel Use creamy mild blue cheese for best results
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix The Chicken:
- Stir the shredded rotisserie chicken with buffalo sauce and ranch seasoning in a large bowl Get every piece coated well and let it sit while you prep the rest so the flavors soak in
- Blend The Cheese Filling:
- Combine cream cheese, mozzarella, cheddar, ranch seasoning, and a splash of milk in a separate bowl Mix until creamy and easy to spread If too thick add a little more milk
- Organize Ingredients And Prep Pan:
- Spray your deepest baking dish well so nothing sticks Line up all noodles, chicken mixture, cheese mixture, green onions, and extra cheese for easy assembly
- Layer The Base:
- Spread a thin layer of cheese or sauce in the bottom of the pan to prevent sticking Lay lasagna noodles across with no overlap and spread half the chicken mixture edge to edge
- Add Cheese Layer:
- Carefully spread half the cheese mixture over the chicken as evenly as possible Top with extra shredded cheese and a scatter of green onions
- Build Up Remaining Layers:
- Repeat layering with more noodles, chicken, and cheese mixtures pressing down lightly so the stack stays neat Save enough cheese and chicken for the top two layers
- Finish The Top:
- Arrange the final noodles and top with remaining cheese filling and plenty of extra mozzarella and cheddar This is the spot to sprinkle blue cheese if you want it rich
- Bake:
- Cover the dish tightly with foil so cheese does not stick Slide into a 375 degree oven for about 45 minutes until everything is hot and melty
- Brown The Top:
- Remove foil and continue baking another 10 minutes just until the cheese is golden and bubbling Watch closely so it does not get too brown
- Let It Rest:
- Rest the lasagna uncovered for fifteen to twenty minutes before slicing This makes distinct layers and makes serving much easier
- Garnish And Serve:
- Cut into squares and drizzle with extra ranch or buffalo sauce Sprinkle green onions on top for pops of color and flavor Serve hot and enjoy every bite
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My favorite part is sneaking a handful of blue cheese crumbles into the top layer which melts into these creamy tangy pockets. This always brings back the laughter and excitement of our first family game day when everyone came back for thirds.
Storage Tips
Leftover lasagna keeps great in the fridge for up to four days. Make sure it cools completely before covering tightly with foil or plastic wrap. For best reheating, use the oven at a low temperature with a splash of milk or broth over the top to keep it moist. This dish also freezes well before baking. Wrap tightly and label then bake directly from frozen adding about twenty extra minutes.
Ingredient Substitutions
No rotisserie chicken at hand You can use cooked and shredded chicken thighs or breasts with a bit of olive oil and salt for moisture. Any creamy hot sauce can step in for buffalo style if needed. To go even creamier add a little Greek yogurt to the cheese mixture for tang and protein. And for blue cheese skeptics just leave it out the lasagna will still shine.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is heavy on rich flavors so I love pairing it with a crisp green salad tossed in vinaigrette. Garlic bread is a must for mopping up extra sauce. Roasted carrots or celery sticks on the side make a perfect nod to classic buffalo wings.
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Recipe Origins
Buffalo Ranch Chicken Lasagna is a true American mashup combining the Italian comfort of classic baked pasta with beloved sports bar staples. It’s the kind of festive spin that always makes even weeknight dinners feel special and is a conversation starter at parties.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use regular chicken instead of rotisserie?
Yes, cooked or poached chicken can be used, but rotisserie offers extra moisture and flavor that enhances the dish.
- → How do I control the spice level?
Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce according to your preference or choose a milder version to reduce heat.
- → Why should I let it rest after baking?
Resting allows the layers to set firmly, making slicing easier and preventing a messy serving experience.
- → Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely, assembling it a day ahead saves time. Just add a bit more baking time when cooking from chilled.
- → Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, freeze before baking for up to three months. Thaw fully before baking for best results.
- → Why cover with foil while baking?
Covering helps retain moisture and prevents the cheese on top from drying out during the initial cooking stage.