Blackened Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe

Lasagna roll-ups are a fun and creative take on traditional lasagna. Instead of layering sheets of pasta and sauce, the pasta is rolled around filling, creating individual servings that are easy to handle and perfectly portioned. These Blackened Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups are a decadent combination of perfectly seasoned blackened chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and cheese, all wrapped in tender lasagna noodles. It’s the ultimate comfort food, with a flavorful twist from the blackened chicken.

This recipe is perfect for a family dinner, special occasions, or meal prepping. The heat from the blackened chicken adds depth and spice, while the richness of the Alfredo sauce balances everything out. Whether you’re a fan of lasagna or just love flavorful chicken, this dish is sure to please.

How to Make Blackened Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups

Making Blackened Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups is an easy process when broken down into steps. You will cook the chicken first, prepare the Alfredo sauce, boil the noodles, and then assemble everything into a deliciously cheesy and flavorful dish. The steps are simple but packed with flavor, and the result is sure to impress!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

1. Prepare the chicken: Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick better.
2. Make the blackened seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
3. Coat the chicken: Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove from the pan and let the chicken rest for a few minutes.
5. Slice the chicken: After the chicken has rested, slice it thinly against the grain into strips. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

1. Melt the butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
2. Add the cream and milk: Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring continuously to combine. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes, making sure it doesn’t boil.
3. Add the cheese: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly to ensure it melts smoothly into the sauce. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency (about 5 minutes).
4. Season the sauce: Taste the sauce and adjust with salt, pepper, and optional ground nutmeg. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Boil the Lasagna Noodles

1. Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside. Lay them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet or kitchen towel to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Assemble the Roll-Ups

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread the Alfredo sauce: Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the noodles from sticking.
3. Assemble each roll-up: Lay one lasagna noodle flat on a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce over the noodle. Add a few slices of blackened chicken and a sprinkling of mozzarella cheese.
4. Roll the noodle: Carefully roll the noodle up, securing the filling inside. Place the roll-up seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
5. Repeat for all noodles: Repeat this process for the remaining noodles, arranging them in the dish until it’s filled.

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna Roll-Ups

1. Top with sauce and cheese: Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the roll-ups, ensuring they are all coated. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
2. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
3. Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Making the Alfredo Sauce

The creamy Alfredo sauce is the heart of this dish, providing a luscious, rich contrast to the spiced chicken. It’s made with a combination of butter, garlic, cream, milk, and Parmesan cheese. Here’s a more in-depth look at how to make this velvety sauce:

• Butter: Use unsalted butter for a balanced flavor. It adds richness and depth to the sauce.
• Cream and Milk: A mixture of heavy cream and whole milk ensures the sauce is thick, creamy, and smooth.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will melt better and provide a superior flavor compared to pre-grated options.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for the best flavor. Sauté it gently to bring out its sweetness without burning it.

If you want to make the sauce ahead of time, simply refrigerate it after it cools. Reheat it gently over low heat when ready to use, adding a splash of milk if needed to return it to its creamy consistency.

Assembling the Roll-Ups

Assembling the lasagna roll-ups requires a bit of patience, but it’s a fun and rewarding process. Here’s how to do it efficiently:

1. Work with cooled noodles: Lay each cooked lasagna noodle flat on a clean surface (such as a countertop or cutting board). This helps prevent the noodles from sticking together when you fill them.
2. Spread sauce evenly: When spreading the Alfredo sauce over each noodle, be sure to leave some room at the edges so the sauce doesn’t spill out when you roll it up.
3. Layer the chicken and cheese: After placing the blackened chicken slices, be sure to sprinkle a little bit of mozzarella cheese. This melts nicely and adds a stretchy, gooey layer that holds everything together.
4. Roll tightly but carefully: Roll each noodle carefully, making sure not to tear it or overstuff it. A tight roll ensures the filling stays inside and the rolls bake evenly.

Baking and Finishing

Baking the roll-ups in a covered dish ensures that the cheese and sauce melt and blend together beautifully. The final uncovered 10-15 minutes allow the top cheese to get golden and bubbly.

Tips for Success

• Do not overcook the noodles: Overcooked lasagna noodles can tear easily when rolling them up. Ensure they’re just al dente (firm to the bite) so they can hold their shape during assembly and baking.
• Rest the chicken: After cooking the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes to lock in the juices before slicing.
• Make ahead: You can assemble the roll-ups ahead of time, cover them, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add 5-10 extra minutes to the bake time if you’re starting with a cold dish.

Flavor Variations

While this recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to switch it up to match your tastes:

• Vegetarian version: Skip the blackened chicken and replace it with roasted vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach for a hearty vegetarian option.
• Spicy Alfredo: Add extra cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the Alfredo sauce for more heat. You can also experiment with adding a small amount of cream cheese for extra richness.
• Bacon: For extra flavor, you can add crispy bacon bits to the chicken or mix them into the sauce.

Healthier Modifications

If you’re looking to make this dish a bit lighter, here are some suggestions:

• Use whole wheat lasagna noodles for extra fiber.
• Lighten the Alfredo sauce by using half-and-half instead of cream and reducing the amount of butter.
• Swap the chicken for turkey for a leaner protein.
• Use part-skim mozzarella and reduce the cheese to lower the calorie content.

How to Store and Reheat

If you have leftovers, store the roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the roll-ups in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through.

You can also freeze the roll-ups for up to 2-3 months. Assemble and bake the roll-ups as usual, then allow them to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To reheat, bake from frozen for 45-50 minutes at 375°F (190°C), or until hot in the center.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Blackened Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups with a light salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. A crisp, cool green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect contrast to the creamy pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce? A: Yes, you can use store-bought Alfredo sauce if you’re short on time, but homemade sauce will give the dish a richer, more personalized flavor.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian? A: Absolutely! Replace the blackened chicken with roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, or even a blend of roasted peppers.

How to Serve Blackened Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups

Once your Blackened Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups are ready to be served, here are a few ideas to make the meal even more satisfying:

1. Garlic Bread:
   • A classic side dish for lasagna, garlic bread pairs perfectly with this rich and creamy dish. You can bake your favorite garlic bread, or even make your own by spreading butter, garlic, and parsley on slices of baguette and toasting them in the oven.
2. Fresh Salad:
   • A crisp, fresh salad is a great way to cut through the richness of the lasagna roll-ups. Consider making a simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a light vinaigrette. For a heartier option, you can include avocado, roasted beets, or olives.
3. Roasted Vegetables:
   • Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or broccoli make a perfect pairing with this dish. Their slight crispiness and earthy flavors contrast wonderfully with the creamy lasagna roll-ups.
4. Wine Pairing:
   • If you enjoy wine, consider pairing this dish with a Chardonnay or a Sauvignon Blanc. Both wines offer crisp acidity, which complements the richness of the Alfredo sauce. For a red wine option, a Pinot Noir or Zinfandel would work well with the spiced chicken.

Common Challenges and Troubleshooting

As with any recipe, there may be a few challenges you encounter along the way. Here are some potential issues and how to fix them:

Problem: Noodles are sticking together

• Solution: After draining the noodles, gently separate them with your hands or use a little olive oil to coat them. Make sure to lay them out on a flat surface to prevent them from sticking.

Problem: Alfredo sauce is too thick

• Solution: If your Alfredo sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk (a little at a time) while stirring over low heat until the desired consistency is reached. You can also add a little more heavy cream for a richer sauce.

Problem: Lasagna roll-ups fall apart during baking

• Solution: Make sure the lasagna noodles are not overcooked. Slightly undercooking them helps them retain their structure when rolled. Additionally, ensure that the roll-ups are placed seam-side down in the baking dish to prevent them from unrolling during baking.

Problem: Not enough flavor from the blackened seasoning

• Solution: If you feel the blackened seasoning isn’t giving the chicken enough flavor, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or paprika used. You can also add a bit of smoked paprika for a deeper, smokier flavor.

Conclusion

Blackened Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups are an indulgent and exciting spin on a classic lasagna. Combining tender pasta, juicy blackened chicken, and creamy Alfredo sauce creates a dish that is both flavorful and comforting. With its balance of spices and rich textures, it’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, the roll-up format makes it easy to serve and enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or preparing a special dinner for friends, this dish is sure to impress!

Blackened Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups combine the best of both worlds—an easy-to-make, comforting lasagna with a flavorful twist. The blackened chicken brings a smoky, spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy Alfredo sauce, creating a decadent dish everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting a gathering, or simply craving a delicious, satisfying meal, these roll-ups are sure to impress.

This recipe is versatile, allowing you to adjust the heat, change up the cheese, or even make a vegetarian version. The step-by-step instructions make it easy to prepare, and with a little time in the oven, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready to serve. Enjoy this fun and delicious take on lasagna!

Yield: 8-10 Roll Ups

Blackened Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe

Print

Lasagna roll-ups are a fun and creative take on traditional lasagna. Instead of layering sheets of pasta and sauce, the pasta is rolled around filling, creating individual servings that are easy to handle and perfectly portioned. These Blackened Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups are a decadent combination of perfectly seasoned blackened chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and cheese, all wrapped in tender lasagna noodles. It’s the ultimate comfort food, with a flavorful twist from the blackened chicken.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Blackened Chicken:
• 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• For the Lasagna Roll-Ups:
• 12 cooked lasagna noodles (al dente)
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
• For the Alfredo Sauce:
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
   Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and then generously coat with the spice mixture on both sides.
   Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Allow it to rest for 5 minutes, then shred it using two forks.
   
2. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
   In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.
   Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
   Reduce the heat and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
   
3. Assemble the Lasagna Roll-Ups:
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) if it isn't already.
   Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions, drain, and lay them flat on a clean surface to prevent sticking.
   In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Stir in the shredded blackened chicken.
   Spread a thin layer of the ricotta-chicken mixture over each lasagna noodle, then carefully roll up the noodles from one end to the other.
   
4. Layer the Roll-Ups:
   Spread a small amount of Alfredo sauce at the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
   Place the lasagna roll-ups seam-side down in the dish, packing them tightly together.
   Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the top of the roll-ups and sprinkle with extra mozzarella cheese.
   
5. Bake:
   Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
   Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
   
6. Serve:
   Let the roll-ups rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Notes

Adjusting the Heat:
If you prefer a milder version of this dish, you can reduce or eliminate the cayenne pepper in the blackened seasoning. Alternatively, use smoked paprika for a smokier flavor without the heat.
For those who like more heat, consider adding extra cayenne pepper to the seasoning or mixing chili flakes into the Alfredo sauce. You can also drizzle some hot sauce over the finished dish before serving.

Alfredo Sauce Texture:
Alfredo sauce thickens as it cools. If the sauce becomes too thick before you’re ready to use it, simply add a bit more milk to return it to a creamy consistency.
If you prefer a chunkier sauce with more texture, you can add sautéed onions, mushrooms, or spinach to the Alfredo sauce before mixing it with the noodles.

Lasagna Noodles:
Make sure the noodles are cooked al dente (firm to the bite) to avoid them becoming too soft or tearing when rolling them up.
If you find that the noodles are sticking together after boiling, drizzle a bit of olive oil on them and gently separate them before assembling the roll-ups.

Making Ahead:
Assemble in advance: If you’re preparing the dish ahead of time, you can assemble the lasagna roll-ups, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to add extra baking time (about 10-15 minutes) if baking from cold.
Freezing: To freeze the assembled roll-ups, let them cool completely after assembling, and then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, you can either thaw them overnight in the fridge or bake them straight from frozen. If baking from frozen, add 15-20 minutes to the cook time.

Cheese Variations:
If you want to change up the cheese used in the roll-ups, feel free to use a combination of mozzarella, provolone, or even ricotta cheese. Ricotta will add a creamier texture and a slightly tangy flavor, making it a great alternative.
For an even richer topping, you can sprinkle a mixture of grated Parmesan and mozzarella on top before baking for extra cheesiness.

Vegetarian Version:
For a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken with a variety of vegetables, such as roasted bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, or even artichoke hearts. Season the vegetables with the blackened seasoning or a bit of smoked paprika to maintain that smoky flavor.
If you want to mimic the texture of chicken, you can try using tofu or plant-based chicken substitutes, which work great when seasoned well.