Cheesy Blackened Chicken Alfredo Lasagna

A few days ago, my neighbor stopped by with a surprise a plump, fresh chicken from her family’s farm. I held it in my hands, wondering what special dish I could make to surprise my husband. It was about creating a cozy, comforting moment in the middle of a busy week. The air outside was cool and breezy, the kind of weather that makes you crave something rich, warm, and deeply satisfying.

I considered roasting the chicken, maybe pairing it with roasted vegetables. But that felt too predictable. Then it hit me: my husband loves Cajun spice, creamy sauces, and, of course, cheese. Why not combine them all into one indulgent dish? That’s when the idea for Cheesy Blackened Chicken Alfredo Lasagna was born.

The process felt like a little culinary adventure seasoning the chicken with a smoky blackened spice blend, whisking together a velvety Alfredo sauce that smelled like pure comfort, and layering it all with pasta and gooey cheese. As it baked, the scent filled the kitchen, and I could almost hear my husband’s footsteps getting faster.

Short Description

A rich, flavorful lasagna layered with tender Cajun seasoned chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, spinach ricotta filling, and two kinds of melted cheese the ultimate comfort food for cool weather nights.

Key Ingredients

• 12 lasagna noodle sheets
• 3 chicken breasts or thighs (cutlets or tenders also work)
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1–2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (for sauce)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded (divided)
• 8 ounces colby jack cheese, shredded (divided)
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Tools Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Foil for covering
• Whisk
• Meat thermometer

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the lasagna noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna sheets and cook according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and lay them flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Season and cook the chicken
Combine Cajun seasoning with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Rub evenly over the chicken. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly. Add Parmesan cheese, cream cheese (optional), Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Reduce heat to low and keep warm.

Step 4: Prepare the ricotta-spinach filling
In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, well-drained spinach, and Cajun seasoning until evenly combined.

Step 5: Assemble the lasagna
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Add a layer of noodles, ricotta-spinach mixture, sliced chicken, a drizzle of Alfredo sauce, and a sprinkle of mozzarella and colby jack. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with noodles, sauce, and the remaining cheeses.

Step 6: Bake the lasagna
Cover with foil (tent it to avoid touching the cheese) and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Rest and serve
Let the lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, ideally with garlic bread or a fresh salad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

– Rich, creamy, and indulgent yet balanced with spice

– Perfect for cool weather comfort meals

– Great make ahead option for busy nights

– A creative twist on classic lasagna

– Family friendly but flavorful enough for guests

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

Mistake 1: Overcooking noodles: They will cook more in the oven. Stop at al dente.
Solution: Boil noodles just until al dente, then drain and lay flat to prevent sticking.

Mistake 2: Watery spinach layer: Excess water will dilute flavor.
Solution: Thaw spinach completely, then wrap in a towel and press firmly to remove moisture.

Mistake 3: Burning garlic: Can make the Alfredo sauce bitter.
Solution: Keep heat medium low and stir constantly, removing from heat as soon as garlic is fragrant.

Mistake 4: Dry chicken: Overcooked chicken loses juiciness.
Solution: Use a meat thermometer and cook to exactly 165°F. Rest before slicing.

Mistake 5: Cheese burning: The top may brown too quickly.
Solution: Tent with foil for the first 25 minutes, then uncover for golden bubbling.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

– Serve family style in the baking dish for a cozy dinner.

– Pair with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a crisp Caesar salad.

– For drinks, try a chilled white wine like Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon.

Storage and Reheating Tips

– Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

– Freeze portions wrapped tightly in foil and placed in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

– Reheat in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for 20–25 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use gluten-free noodles?

Yes, but reduce boiling time slightly to prevent breakage.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

3. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, but season it with Cajun spice before layering for flavor.

4. What if I don’t have colby jack cheese?

Substitute with cheddar or extra mozzarella.

5. Can I make it less spicy?

Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and use mild paprika.

Tips & Tricks

– Let the lasagna rest after baking for neat slices.

– Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.

– Double the Alfredo sauce if you like extra creaminess.

Recipe Variations

Seafood Twist: Swap chicken for shrimp and season with Old Bay before cooking.

Veggie Lover’s Version: Replace chicken with roasted zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers.

Low Carb Option: Use thin zucchini slices instead of noodles.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Blackened Chicken Alfredo Lasagna started as a “what should I do with this chicken?” moment and turned into one of my family’s favorite meals. The combination of smoky Cajun spice, creamy Alfredo sauce, and gooey melted cheese is pure comfort in every bite.

A regular evening instantly feels more special with a dish like this. Each layer goes beyond pasta and filling. I know I’ll be making it again on cool nights or whenever I want to see that spark in my husband’s eyes after the first bite.