Name: Butter Chicken Lasagna: A Delicious Fusion Recipe You Need to Try
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 135 min
Yield: 8-10 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste; 1 tsp turmeric powder; 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste); 1/2 tsp garam masala; 1/4 cup plain yogurt; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup butter, unsalted; 1 tbsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves), crushed; Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish; 1 box (1 lb) lasagna noodles, oven-ready (no-boil); 15 oz ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg, lightly beaten; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Butter Chicken Lasagna: Yes, you read that right! Prepare to have your mind (and your taste buds) blown by this incredibly delicious fusion dish. Imagine the creamy, rich, and aromatic flavors of classic butter chicken layered between sheets of pasta, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella. It's a culinary adventure that will redefine your definition of comfort food.

While lasagna boasts a rich Italian heritage, tracing back centuries, and butter chicken is a beloved staple of Indian cuisine, this unique combination is a relatively modern creation. It's a testament to the beauty of culinary innovation, blending the best of both worlds into a single, unforgettable dish. This Butter Chicken Lasagna is a celebration of flavors and textures.

People adore this dish for its sheer indulgence and surprising harmony. The tender chicken, simmered in a luscious tomato-based sauce infused with butter, cream, and fragrant spices, perfectly complements the creamy ricotta and the satisfying chew of the lasagna noodles. It's a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate. Plus, it's a fantastic way to feed a crowd, offering a unique and exciting alternative to traditional lasagna or butter chicken served separately. Get ready to experience a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more!

Ingredients:

For the Butter Chicken:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp garam masala
1/4 cup plain yogurt
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup butter, unsalted
1 tbsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves), crushed
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

For the Lasagna:

1 box (1 lb) lasagna noodles, oven-ready (no-boil)
15 oz ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Preparing the Butter Chicken:

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, yogurt, and salt. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful and tender the chicken will be!
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until golden brown and softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial for building the base flavor of the butter chicken. Don't rush it!
Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken pieces. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. This slow simmering process is key to developing a rich and complex sauce.
Add the Cream and Butter: Stir in the heavy cream and butter. The butter adds richness and a velvety texture to the sauce. Continue to simmer for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Finish with Flavor: Stir in the crushed kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves). This adds a unique smoky and slightly bitter flavor that is characteristic of butter chicken. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed.
Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Set aside while you prepare the lasagna components.

Preparing the Ricotta Mixture:

Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. This ricotta mixture will add a creamy and cheesy layer to the lasagna.

Assembling the Butter Chicken Lasagna:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Layering the Lasagna: This is where the magic happens! We're going to layer all the delicious components to create our Butter Chicken Lasagna.
- Bottom Layer: Spread a thin layer of the butter chicken sauce evenly over the bottom of the baking dish. This prevents the noodles from sticking and adds flavor to the bottom layer.
- Noodle Layer: Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce, overlapping slightly if necessary. Use oven-ready noodles for convenience.
- Ricotta Layer: Spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodle layer.
- Mozzarella Layer: Sprinkle one-third of the mozzarella cheese over the ricotta layer.
- Butter Chicken Layer: Spoon half of the remaining butter chicken sauce over the mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers: noodles, remaining ricotta mixture, another one-third of the mozzarella cheese, and the remaining butter chicken sauce.
- Top Layer: Top with the final layer of noodles and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This helps to trap moisture and prevents the top from burning. Bake for 30 minutes.
Uncover and Bake: Remove the aluminum foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
Rest Before Serving: Let the lasagna rest for at least 10-15 minutes before cutting and serving. This allows the layers to set and prevents it from being too runny.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your delicious and unique Butter Chicken Lasagna!

Tips and Variations:

Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili powder in the butter chicken to your preferred spice level. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with paneer (Indian cheese) or vegetables like cauliflower, potatoes, and peas for a vegetarian version.
Cream Cheese: For an even richer and creamier lasagna, you can substitute half of the ricotta cheese with cream cheese.
Fresh Herbs: Feel free to add other fresh herbs like mint or basil to the ricotta mixture for added flavor.
Make Ahead: You can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Freezing: This lasagna can also be frozen for later. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Noodle Type: While I recommend oven-ready noodles for convenience, you can use regular lasagna noodles. Just be sure to cook them according to the package directions before assembling the lasagna. Undercook them slightly, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
Adding Vegetables: Feel free to add a layer of sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the lasagna for added nutrients and flavor.
Serving Suggestions: Serve the Butter Chicken Lasagna with a side salad or naan bread for a complete and satisfying meal. A dollop of plain yogurt or raita (yogurt dip) can also be a refreshing accompaniment.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese! A blend of mozzarella, provolone, and fontina would be delicious.

Enjoy this fusion dish!

Conclusion:

This Butter Chicken Lasagna isn't just a meal; it's an experience, a fusion of comfort food that will redefine your weeknight dinners. The creamy, aromatic butter chicken sauce, layered with tender lasagna noodles and a generous helping of cheese, creates a symphony of flavors that's both familiar and excitingly new. It's the kind of dish that will have everyone asking for seconds, and trust me, you'll be happy to oblige! Why is this a must-try? Because it takes two beloved dishes and elevates them to a whole new level of deliciousness. Forget choosing between Indian and Italian tonight; you can have both! The richness of the butter chicken perfectly complements the cheesy, comforting layers of lasagna, creating a dish that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a special date night. Plus, it's a fantastic way to use up leftover butter chicken, transforming it into something truly spectacular.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving and customizing this Butter Chicken Lasagna. For a complete meal, serve it with a side of naan bread or garlic bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the lasagna. Want to kick things up a notch? Consider adding a layer of spinach or other leafy greens for extra nutrients and a pop of color. You could also incorporate some roasted vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, for added texture and flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, try using different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, provolone, or even a sprinkle of parmesan for a sharper taste. For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter chicken sauce or use a hotter curry powder. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or use a sweeter variety of curry powder. And for those with dietary restrictions, this recipe is easily adaptable. Use gluten-free lasagna noodles for a gluten-free version, or substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option. You can even use plant-based cheese alternatives to make it completely vegan.

Don't be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own!

I truly believe this Butter Chicken Lasagna will become a staple in your kitchen. It's a unique and flavorful dish that's sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of Indian and Italian flavors is unexpected but incredibly delicious, and the ease of preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure. I'm confident that you'll love this recipe as much as I do. I can't wait to hear about your experience making this Butter Chicken Lasagna! Please, share your photos and comments below. Let me know what variations you tried and how your family enjoyed it. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me create even better recipes for you in the future. Happy cooking!