Why You’ll Love Barbecue Chicken Lasagna Recipe
This Barbecue Chicken Lasagna is bold, cheesy, and packed with flavor. The smoky barbecue sauce adds a tangy richness that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken and creamy cheese layers. It’s a fun and unexpected take on lasagna that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead and even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or entertaining.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
-
Cooked shredded chicken
-
Barbecue sauce
-
Ricotta cheese
-
Shredded mozzarella cheese
-
Parmesan cheese
-
Lasagna noodles (oven-ready or boiled)
-
Egg
-
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
-
Salt and pepper
Directions
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with your favorite barbecue sauce. Mix until the chicken is evenly coated.
-
In a separate bowl, stir together the ricotta cheese, egg, a pinch of salt and pepper, and some shredded mozzarella for added creaminess.
-
Spread a thin layer of barbecue sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
-
Layer 3–4 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
-
Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a generous helping of the barbecue chicken and a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan.
-
Repeat the layers: noodles, ricotta mixture, barbecue chicken, cheeses—until all ingredients are used, finishing with a top layer of cheese.
-
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
-
Remove foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
-
Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 8 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 40–45 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour and 5 minutes
Variations
-
Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful shortcut.
-
Add sautéed onions or bell peppers to the barbecue chicken mixture for extra texture and flavor.
-
Swap ricotta for cottage cheese if preferred.
-
Try a spicy barbecue sauce for a little heat.
-
Use a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for a sharper cheese profile.
Storage/Reheating
To store leftovers, let the lasagna cool completely before covering and refrigerating. It can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes until heated through, or place in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes. This dish also freezes well—wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
What kind of barbecue sauce works best?
A sweet and smoky barbecue sauce pairs beautifully with the chicken and cheese, but you can use any variety you love—spicy, honey, or tangy.
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it up to a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge until ready to bake.
Can I freeze Barbecue Chicken Lasagna?
Absolutely. Wrap it tightly with foil and plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
What’s a good substitute for ricotta cheese?
Cottage cheese is a common and slightly lighter substitute that still gives a creamy texture.
Can I use leftover grilled chicken?
Yes, grilled chicken adds an extra layer of smoky flavor that works great in this recipe.
Is it okay to use no-boil noodles?
Yes, no-boil or oven-ready lasagna noodles work perfectly and save time.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, swap the chicken for grilled veggies or a plant-based meat substitute and use vegetarian barbecue sauce.
How do I know when the lasagna is done?
It’s done when the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden on top and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely—try adding corn, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms between layers.
How should I reheat frozen lasagna?
Let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake covered at 350°F for about 30–40 minutes, or until heated through.
Conclusion
Barbecue Chicken Lasagna is a flavorful and comforting dish that brings a bold, smoky twist to traditional lasagna. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or make-ahead meals. Whether you’re a barbecue lover or just looking for a fun new lasagna variation, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Barbecue Chicken Lasagna
Barbecue Chicken Lasagna is a flavorful twist on the classic Italian dish, layered with smoky barbecue chicken, creamy ricotta, melty cheese, and hearty noodles. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 9–12 lasagna noodles (oven-ready or pre-boiled)
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with barbecue sauce until well coated.
- In another bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, a pinch of salt and pepper, and 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese.
- Spread a thin layer of barbecue sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Layer 3–4 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Spread ricotta mixture over noodles, then add barbecue chicken, followed by mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat layers: noodles, ricotta mixture, chicken, and cheeses, ending with cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor.
- Add sautéed onions or bell peppers for extra texture.
- Swap ricotta for cottage cheese if preferred.
- Try spicy barbecue sauce for a kick.
- This lasagna tastes even better the next day.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
