There's something so comforting about pasta baked to perfection and smothered in creamy sauce—especially when it’s packed with bold flavors. The Blackened Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe hits that sweet spot with tender spiced chicken, rich Alfredo, and ooey-gooey cheese wrapped in lasagna sheets. It’s one of those dishes that makes dinner feel like a special occasion, even on a regular weeknight.
Jump to:
- Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ingredients & Why They Work
- Make It Your Way
- Step-by-Step: How I Make Blackened Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
- Top Tip
- How to Serve Blackened Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
- Make Ahead and Storage
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- Final Thoughts
- Blackened Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
Why You'll Love This Recipe
I’ve made this Blackened Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe so many times now, and every single time it leaves everyone at the table asking for seconds. This isn’t your average lasagna—it’s got that spicy, smoky kick from the blackened chicken paired with an ultra-creamy, garlicky Alfredo sauce that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to put together.
- Bold Flavor Boost: The blackened seasoning on the chicken infuses the whole dish with a spicy, smoky depth that stands out deliciously.
- Creamy Comfort: That homemade Alfredo sauce, loaded with garlic and parmesan, makes this roll-up irresistibly rich and smooth.
- Elegant Yet Easy: Despite looking fancy, this recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both cozy dinners and impressing guests.
- Customizable Goodness: You can swap cheeses, add more veggies, or tweak the spice level to make it just right for your family.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Each ingredient has a purpose here, creating layers of flavor and texture that work so well together. The balance between spicy, creamy, and cheesy keeps the roll-ups from feeling one-note. I recommend using fresh parmesan and good-quality cream cheese for the best results—and don't skimp on the garlic; it really elevates the sauce.
- Lasagna noodle sheets: Use no-boil or regular noodles—just be sure to cook and handle them gently to avoid tears when rolling.
- Chicken breasts (or thighs/cutlets/tenders): Thighs can add juiciness, but breasts work perfectly; just don’t overcook to keep them tender.
- Olive oil: The base for searing the chicken and adding richness without overpowering flavors.
- Cajun seasoning: This homemade blend is key for that signature blackened flavor—smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet.
- Butter: Adds silkiness and depth to the Alfredo sauce.
- Garlic (minced): Fresh garlic packs a punch and enhances the savory profile.
- Heavy whipping cream: Creates the luscious body of the Alfredo sauce that coats everything beautifully.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best for tangy, salty richness.
- Cream cheese (softened): Makes the filling ultra creamy and smooth.
- Ricotta cheese: Gives the roll-ups a light fluffiness balancing the dense cream cheese.
- Frozen chopped spinach (well drained): Adds color, nutrients, and a subtle earthiness without weighing down the dish.
- Mozzarella (shredded): Melts perfectly into stretchy, gooey goodness.
- Colby jack cheese (shredded): Adds a mild sharpness and beautiful melting quality.
- Spices for blackened seasoning (smoked paprika, cayenne, onion powder, brown sugar, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, thyme, oregano): The full blend gives a complex heat and aroma that defines blackened chicken.
Make It Your Way
I like to tweak this recipe depending on the season or who I’m cooking for. Sometimes I add mushrooms or use spicy sausage instead of chicken for a twist. Or, if you prefer, swap out the spinach for kale or roasted red peppers to change up the flavor and texture.
- Variation: Once, I made these with blackened shrimp instead of chicken—added them just before baking—and it blew everyone away. Try seafood or even a vegetarian version by stepping up the veggies!
- Make it lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter Alfredo sauce, but keep those cheeses for richness.
- Spice level tweak: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with a teaspoon of Cajun seasoning in the sauce and add more to taste.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles, but watch cooking times closely to avoid breaking noodles.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Blackened Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
Step 1: Perfectly Season and Cook the Chicken
Start by mixing the blackened seasoning ingredients—smoked paprika, cayenne, onion powder, brown sugar, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, thyme, and oregano—into a fragrant spice blend. Coat your chicken breasts evenly with olive oil and this seasoning. I find searing them in a hot pan until golden with a little olive oil locks in juiciness and builds flavor. Cook about 5–7 minutes per side depending on thickness, then let them rest before dicing. Don’t undercook, but avoid drying them out.
Step 2: Boil the Lasagna Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the noodles just until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. They’ll keep cooking in the oven, so don't overdo it here or they'll get mushy. Lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel or parchment paper to cool and prevent sticking.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Alfredo Sauce
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat and add minced garlic, cooking until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in parmesan cheese along with a pinch of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Keep it on low heat so the sauce thickens slowly and gets ultra smooth—stir often to prevent burning. Once it coats the back of a spoon, you’re set.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, ricotta, drained chopped spinach, diced blackened chicken, and half of the shredded mozzarella and colby jack cheeses. Add 2-3 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning here, depending on your heat preference. Mix gently but thoroughly so every bite is flavorful and creamy.
Step 5: Assemble the Roll-Ups
Spoon an even amount of the filling down the center of each lasagna noodle sheet. Carefully roll each noodle up, tucking in the filling as you go. Place the roll-ups seam side down in your greased 9x13 baking dish.
Step 6: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden
Pour the creamy Alfredo sauce over the roll-ups, spreading it evenly, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and colby jack cheeses on top. Bake at 375°F for about 30-35 minutes or until bubbly and the cheese is golden. Give it a few minutes to rest after baking—it makes cutting easier and lets all those flavors settle beautifully.
Top Tip
This dish sounds fancy but really shines when you pay attention to a few key details—seasoning the chicken generously, not overcooking noodles, and letting the sauce thicken properly. Those small touches make a huge difference.
- Even Seasoning: Coat chicken thoroughly with all the blackened spices—don’t be shy! This layers flavor all through the roll-ups.
- Noodle Care: Lay cooked noodles flat and don’t stack them or they’ll stick together, making rolling a challenge.
- Low & Slow Sauce: Keep the Alfredo sauce on low heat and stir frequently to avoid scorching. Patience here pays off with the creamiest sauce.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the baked dish cool for 5-10 minutes to solidify the filling, so your roll-ups stay intact and slice neatly.
How to Serve Blackened Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
Garnishes
I always sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and freshness. A grind of black pepper and some extra parmesan cheese just before serving adds that final flavor boost. Sometimes, a squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
Garlic bread or Texas toast is my go-to—they soak up any extra sauce like magic. A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness, or roasted veggies like asparagus or broccoli add crunch and a bit of earthiness.
Creative Ways to Present
For holidays or dinner parties, I arrange the roll-ups in a circular pattern on a large platter, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve family-style. You can even bake individual portions inside small skillets or ramekins for a cute single-serving presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers go straight into an airtight container and into the fridge. I find they keep beautifully for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in the oven to preserve that creamy texture—the microwave works in a pinch but can dry things out slightly.
Freezing
I’ve frozen the entire dish before baking and also freeze cooked roll-ups individually. Wrap them tightly in foil and plastic wrap, then place into a freezer-safe bag. They freeze well for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F covered with foil to keep moisture in, about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to refresh that golden top. This keeps the roll-ups tender and the sauce silky.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Yes! While I love making my own to control the heat and flavor balance, store-bought Cajun seasoning works well and saves time. Just check the ingredient list to avoid any unwanted additives.
Absolutely. You can assemble the roll-ups and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just let them come to room temperature for 20 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Yes, using gluten-free lasagna noodles is an easy adjustment for this recipe. Just follow the package instructions carefully and be gentle when rolling, as some gluten-free noodles can be more delicate.
The spice level can be adjusted to your preference by controlling how much Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper you use. I usually keep it moderately spicy to complement the creamy sauce, but you can dial it back or up easily.
Final Thoughts
This Blackened Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe holds a special place in my recipe box because it’s the perfect marriage of bold and comforting. Every time I serve it, folks are wowed by how something so rich and flavorful can be so approachable in the kitchen. I really hope you give it a try—it’s the kind of meal you’ll want to keep coming back to when you want to treat yourself or someone you love.
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Blackened Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Blackened Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll Ups are a delicious twist on classic lasagna, featuring tender blackened chicken, creamy garlic Parmesan Alfredo sauce, and a flavorful filling of ricotta, cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, colby jack, and spinach rolled inside lasagna noodles. Baked until golden and bubbly, this dish makes a comforting and impressive meal.
Ingredients
Lasagna and Filling
- 12 lasagna noodle sheets
- 3 chicken breasts (thighs, cutlets or tenders work too)
- ½ block cream cheese, softened
- 1 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 12 oz frozen chopped spinach (drained well)
- 1 8 oz block mozzarella cheese (shredded, divided)
- 1 8 oz block colby jack cheese (shredded, divided)
- Prepared chicken, diced
Blackened Chicken Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika (regular paprika works too)
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
Alfredo Sauce
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 6-8 large cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1-2 teaspoons cajun seasoning
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional
- Garlic bread or Texas toast for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9x13 baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Blackened Chicken Seasoning: Combine 2 tablespoons cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, brown sugar, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, dried thyme, and oregano in a bowl to make the blackened seasoning mix.
- Season Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts evenly with the blackened seasoning mixture, ensuring all sides are coated well.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the seasoned chicken breasts until fully cooked through and nicely blackened on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove from heat and allow to rest, then dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook Lasagna Noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles in salted water according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and lay them flat on a clean surface or towels to prevent sticking.
- Make Alfredo Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in 1-2 teaspoons cajun seasoning, grated parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper to taste. Continue cooking until sauce thickens slightly, then remove from heat.
- Prepare Filling Mixture: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, drained chopped spinach, diced cooked chicken, and half of the shredded mozzarella and colby jack cheeses. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- Assemble Roll Ups: Spread a generous layer of the filling mixture evenly over each lasagna noodle sheet. Carefully roll up each sheet tightly from one end to the other.
- Place Roll Ups in Baking Dish: Arrange the rolled noodles seam-side down in the prepared baking dish evenly.
- Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour the prepared Alfredo sauce evenly over the roll ups, then sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and colby jack cheeses on top to cover the rolls.
- Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 35 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Serve: Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally serve with garlic bread or Texas toast for a complete meal.
Notes
- Ensure the spinach is well drained to prevent the filling from becoming watery.
- Use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor in the Alfredo sauce.
- For a milder version, reduce the cayenne pepper in the blackened seasoning.
- Allow the chicken to rest after cooking before dicing to retain juices and tenderness.
- This dish can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking to save time on serving day.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll up
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
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