If you’re craving a dish that perfectly blends bold flavors with creamy, melty goodness, this Cheesy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Lasagna Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender layers of shredded rotisserie chicken soaked in a tangy buffalo sauce, combined with a luscious cream cheese and ranch mixture, then stacked between tender lasagna noodles and oozing with cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Every bite bursts with the perfect balance of spicy, savory, and cheesy comfort that feels like a warm hug on your plate. It’s a fun twist on classic lasagna that’s guaranteed to become a new favorite in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s keep things simple but flavorful with ingredients that each play a star role in creating this irresistible dish. From the creamy tang of cream cheese to the spicy kick of buffalo sauce, every item contributes to the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color.
- 12 oz lasagna noodles: Using no-boil noodles speeds up prep time and layers cook perfectly in the sauce.
- 3.5 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded: Convenient and packed with savory flavor, leftover chicken works wonderfully here.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning: Adds that classic zesty ranch flavor that enhances the creamy filling.
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates a rich, smooth texture that binds all the layers beautifully.
- 1 cup buffalo sauce: Provides a spicy, vibrant punch; go mild if you prefer less heat.
- 0.5 cup milk: Helps make the cheese mixture extra creamy and easy to spread.
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded: Sharp and tangy, this cheese deepens the flavor complexity.
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts into gooey, stringy goodness that’s a hallmark of any great lasagna.
- Optional toppings: Ranch dressing, green onions, and blue cheese crumbles to sprinkle on after baking for an extra flavorful finish.
How to Make Cheesy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the creamy cheese mixture
Start by combining the softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning, buffalo sauce, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese in a large bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy. This flavorful base ties the dish together with a deliciously tangy and spicy backbone.
Step 2: Layer the cheese mixture in the baking dish
Spoon a thin but even layer of your cheese mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. This ensures each bite gets a luscious, cheesy foundation that keeps the noodles moist and flavorful throughout baking.
Step 3: Add the first layer of noodles
Carefully place lasagna noodles over the cheese mixture in a single layer. Make sure they’re evenly spaced and comfortably nestled to create a perfect base for more layers.
Step 4: Layer with more cheese mixture and chicken
Spread a generous dollop of the cheese mixture over the noodles and smooth it out evenly. Then scatter shredded rotisserie chicken on top to introduce savory, tender bites into the lasagna layers.
Step 5: Repeat layering until all ingredients are used
Alternate between noodles, cheese mixture, and chicken layers until the ingredients are fully used up, finishing with a thick, generous layer of the cheese mixture on top for maximum cheesiness.
Step 6: Bake covered
Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 45 minutes. This gentle heat lets all those flavors meld perfectly while the noodles soften to tender perfection.
Step 7: Uncover and finish baking
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This step creates a bubbly, golden-brown top that is classic lasagna magic and whets your appetite even more.
Step 8: Let it rest before serving
Allow your lasagna to sit for 8 to 10 minutes once out of the oven. This resting time helps everything set so you get clean, beautiful slices brimming with cheesy buffalo goodness.
How to Serve Cheesy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
For the freshest finish, drizzle some ranch dressing over the top and sprinkle with sliced green onions and a few blue cheese crumbles. These add vibrant colors and complementary flavors that elevate each hearty bite.
Side Dishes
This lasagna is satisfying enough to stand alone, but if you want to round out your meal, consider a crisp green salad or steamed veggies. Something light and refreshing balances the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For casual gatherings, serve this Cheesy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Lasagna Recipe in individual ramekins or small casserole dishes, making portioning a breeze and adding a fun personalized touch to your meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, wrap the lasagna tightly in plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it will keep fresh for up to 3 days while maintaining its creamy texture and flavors.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap before freezing, and you can keep it stored for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 25 minutes or until hot all the way through. You can also microwave smaller portions, though oven reheating keeps the texture at its best.
FAQs
Can I make this lasagna with regular cooked noodles?
Absolutely! If you don’t have no-boil noodles, feel free to cook regular lasagna noodles according to package instructions before layering. Just be sure to drain and cool them to prevent sogginess.
How spicy is the buffalo sauce in this recipe?
The heat level depends on the buffalo sauce you choose. You can use mild buffalo sauce to keep it gentle or go spicier for more kick. Adjust to your spice preference easily.
Can I use a different type of chicken?
Rotisserie chicken offers great convenience and flavor, but shredded cooked chicken breast or thighs work just as well. Just ensure the chicken is well-seasoned for the best taste.
Is there a vegetarian version of this lasagna?
Yes! Swap the chicken for hearty veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or cauliflower, and consider adding a bit more cheese or a veggie-friendly buffalo sauce to keep the bold flavors shining.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Cover the lasagna tightly with foil while reheating in the oven to keep moisture locked in. Adding a splash of milk or extra cheese on top before reheating can also help maintain creaminess.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Lasagna Recipe is a warm, comforting dish that packs a punch of flavor with every gooey, cheesy bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this lasagna promises a delicious experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try—you won’t regret welcoming this cheesy, spicy twist into your kitchen favorites!
Print
Cheesy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Lasagna is a flavorful twist on classic lasagna, combining spicy buffalo sauce, creamy ranch dressing, and tender shredded chicken layered with gooey cheeses and no-boil lasagna noodles. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, this dish offers a delightful balance of tangy, spicy, and cheesy goodness that’ll have you coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
Lasagna Layers
- 12 oz no-boil lasagna noodles
- 3.5 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
Cheese Mixture
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet ranch seasoning
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (mild or to taste)
- 0.5 cup milk
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
Optional Toppings
- Ranch dressing
- Green onions, chopped
- Blue cheese crumbles
Instructions
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning, buffalo sauce, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is creamy and well blended, ensuring even flavor throughout.
- Start Layering: Spread a thin layer of the cheese mixture evenly across the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to create a flavorful base layer.
- Add Noodles: Arrange a layer of no-boil lasagna noodles over the cheese mixture, spacing them evenly to fit comfortably within the dish.
- Layer Cheese and Chicken: Dollop more of the cheese mixture over the noodles and spread it smoothly, then scatter an even layer of the shredded rotisserie chicken atop the cheese mixture.
- Repeat Layers: Continue layering noodles, cheese mixture, and shredded chicken, ending with a generous layer of cheese mixture on top to seal in the flavors.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish gently with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes to cook the noodles and meld the ingredients.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the top to bubble and turn golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let the lasagna rest for 8-10 minutes after baking to set properly, making it easier to cut and serve. Add optional toppings like ranch dressing, chopped green onions, or blue cheese crumbles for extra flavor.
Notes
- Use no-boil noodles for quicker prep and layering without the need to pre-cook pasta.
- Leftover rotisserie chicken works great, adding convenience and rich flavor.
- Adjust buffalo sauce amount according to your spice preference; mild buffalo sauce is perfect for less heat.
- Allowing the lasagna to rest post-baking helps it firm up for clean slices.
- Optional toppings add fresh texture and extra taste but can be omitted for simplicity.
