If you’re a fan of rich, creamy butter chicken and cheesy lasagna, then Butter Chicken Lasagna is the perfect dish for you! This fusion recipe takes the comforting Italian lasagna and infuses it with the bold, flavorful spices of Indian butter chicken. Layered with creamy tomato sauce, tender chicken, melted cheese, and a hint of fragrant spices, this lasagna is sure to become your new favorite comfort food.
Perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or even a cozy night in, Butter Chicken Lasagna is guaranteed to impress with its irresistible flavors.
1. Why You’ll Love Butter Chicken Lasagna
This dish combines the best of both worlds:
- Fusion Flavors: The rich, creamy flavors of butter chicken meet the comforting layers of lasagna.
- Comforting and Hearty: It’s the ultimate comfort food, filled with cheese, chicken, and layers of flavor.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners or dinner parties — everyone loves lasagna!
- Easy to Make: Though the recipe has a few steps, it’s simple to prepare and doesn’t require any specialized cooking techniques.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep this dish in advance and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
2. Ingredients You’ll Need for Butter Chicken Lasagna
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need for the butter chicken filling, lasagna noodles, and the cheesy topping.
For the Butter Chicken Filling:
- Chicken Breasts or Thighs: 2–3 boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized cubes
- Butter: 3 tablespoons
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Ginger: 1-inch piece, grated
- Canned Tomatoes: 1 can (14 oz)
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)
- Curry Powder: 1 tablespoon
- Ground Cumin: 1 teaspoon
- Ground Coriander: 1 teaspoon
- Garam Masala: 1 teaspoon
- Chili Powder or Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon (optional, for heat)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Fresh Cilantro: For garnish (optional)
For the Lasagna:
- Lasagna Noodles: 9–12 sheets (depending on the size of your dish, cooked according to package instructions)
- Ricotta Cheese: 1 1/2 cups
- Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups shredded
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup grated
- Egg: 1 large (to mix with the ricotta for creaminess)
- Butter: 2 tablespoons (for greasing the baking dish)
For the Topping:
- Extra Mozzarella: 1 cup shredded (for a cheesy top layer)
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Butter Chicken Lasagna
1. Prepare the Butter Chicken Filling:
- Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened.
- Add the garlic and grated ginger and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the curry powder, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and chili powder (if using). Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Add the chicken cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5–7 minutes.
- Stir in the canned tomatoes and tomato paste, then pour in the heavy cream. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Lasagna Layers:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, and half of the shredded mozzarella. Stir well and set aside.
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Assemble the Lasagna:
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- Start by spreading a thin layer of the butter chicken sauce at the bottom of the dish.
- Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
- Add half of the remaining butter chicken filling on top of the ricotta.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat the layers: noodles, ricotta mixture, butter chicken filling, and cheeses.
- Finish with a final layer of noodles, butter chicken sauce, and the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
4. Bake the Lasagna:
- Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
5. Serve:
- Let the lasagna cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with a side of naan or a green salad.
4. Tips for the Best Butter Chicken Lasagna
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and spices will really bring the flavor to life.
- Cook the Chicken Well: Sauté the chicken until golden before adding the sauce to get a rich depth of flavor.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you like your food milder, reduce the chili powder and curry powder, or omit them altogether.
- Use Homemade Lasagna Noodles (Optional): If you have time, using fresh homemade noodles will take this lasagna to the next level.
- Make It Ahead: This lasagna can be assembled a day or two in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it.
5. Serving Ideas for Butter Chicken Lasagna
This lasagna is hearty on its own, but you can elevate it with these sides:
- Garlic Naan: Soft, warm naan is perfect for dipping into the sauce.
- Cucumber Raita: A cool, refreshing yogurt dip helps balance the richness of the lasagna.
- Green Salad: A light salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted cauliflower, carrots, or green beans make a perfect accompaniment.
6. Nutritional Benefits
While this dish is indulgent, it offers some nutritional benefits:
- Protein-Packed: Chicken and cheese provide a good amount of protein.
- Healthy Fats: The butter and cream provide healthy fats that contribute to satiety.
- Vitamins and Antioxidants: Spices like garlic, ginger, and turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties and are rich in antioxidants.
- Fiber: Tomato and the vegetables add some fiber, helping with digestion.
FAQs
- Can I make Butter Chicken Lasagna vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with paneer, tofu, or a mix of vegetables like mushrooms and cauliflower for a vegetarian version. - Can I use store-bought curry sauce for this recipe?
While homemade curry sauce is recommended for the best flavor, you can use store-bought curry sauce if you’re in a rush. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it for 1-2 days. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat. - Can I freeze Butter Chicken Lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze it! After assembling, cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. - Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! You can use mozzarella, cheddar, or a combination of cheeses for a different flavor profile. - How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more chili powder, or even some diced green chilies to the butter chicken filling for added heat. - How do I know when the lasagna is done baking?
The lasagna is done when the top is golden and bubbly. You can insert a knife into the center to check if it’s hot all the way through. - Can I use non-dairy substitutes?
Yes! Use non-dairy butter, coconut milk, and vegan cheese for a dairy-free version of this recipe. - How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture. - Can I make individual servings of this lasagna?
Yes! You can use smaller baking dishes or ramekins for individual portions and adjust the baking time accordingly.
Butter Chicken Lasagna is the ultimate fusion comfort food that combines the richness of Indian butter chicken with the heartiness of Italian lasagna. With its creamy, flavorful layers, it’s a dish that’s bound to impress everyone at the dinner table! Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.