This Spicy Chicken Lazone Pasta is a mouthwatering dish that’s packed with flavor! Juicy chicken is coated in a bold spice mix and combined with creamy sauce for a twirl of goodness.
It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home. Trust me, you’ll find yourself going back for seconds—who can resist that tasty sauce? I usually serve it with a sprinkle of parsley for a bit of color. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fettuccine is great for this dish, but you can swap it for penne or spaghetti if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the pasta you choose.
Chicken: I suggest using thinly sliced chicken breasts for faster cooking. If you’re looking to save time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works well, too! Just add it in when you stir the pasta with the sauce.
Spices: Paprika and cayenne give the dish its heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the cayenne or use smoked paprika for a different flavor profile without much heat.
Heavy Cream: This adds a rich texture, but you can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option. Coconut cream is also a good dairy-free choice, giving a unique flavor twist!
Hot Sauce: I love using Sriracha for a kick! If you prefer milder flavors, try a mild hot sauce or skip it entirely. You can add a little chili powder instead for depth.
How Do You Make the Sauce Creamy and Flavorful?
The sauce is the heart of this dish and requires some attention to detail. Here’s a quick rundown to ensure you get that creamy texture and rich flavor:
- After cooking the chicken, be sure to sauté the garlic and onion until they’re lightly golden. This adds flavor to your sauce.
- When you stir in the tomato paste, cook it for about a minute. This helps caramelize the sugars and enhances its taste.
- As you add the cream and cheese, stir continuously to avoid any lumps. Let the sauce simmer gently; high heat can cause it to separate.
- Taste your sauce before adding the chicken and pasta. This way, you can adjust seasoning or heat level to your liking.
By following these steps, you’ll achieve a creamy, flavorful sauce that ties the dish together perfectly!
How to Make Spicy Chicken Lazone Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for spiciness)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Louisiana or Sriracha)
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll start by boiling the pasta, then cook the chicken and make the creamy sauce. It’s quick, simple, and all done in one skillet—perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. You want it a little firm because it will cook more in the sauce later!
2. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This blend gives your chicken a flavorful kick!
3. Season the Chicken:
Take your sliced chicken breasts and sprinkle the spice mix evenly over them, tossing to ensure all the pieces are well-coated.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken slices. Cook them until they’re golden and fully cooked, which will take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
5. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if necessary. Sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until they’re fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. This step infuses your dish with a mouthwatering aroma!
6. Make the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato paste, cooking it for another minute to enhance the flavor. Then, pour in the chicken broth, using a spatula to scrape any tasty brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow it to simmer and reduce for about 2 minutes.
7. Creamy Finish:
Now, lower the heat and add in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and hot sauce. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Taste it and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Don’t be shy—make it just right for your palate!
8. Combine Chicken and Pasta:
Finally, add the cooked chicken back into the sauce along with the drained fettuccine. Toss everything together so that the pasta is coated evenly with that spicy, creamy goodness. Heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
9. Serve and Garnish:
Plate up your delicious Spicy Chicken Lazone Pasta, making sure to sprinkle it with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness!
Enjoy your flavorful and spicy Chicken Lazone Pasta dinner—it’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ About Spicy Chicken Lazone Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Yes! While fettuccine works wonderfully, you can easily substitute it with penne or spaghetti. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times based on the type of pasta you choose.
How Can I Adjust the Spiciness Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit the hot sauce. You can also use a milder hot sauce instead to control the heat without sacrificing flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative. You can use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need cooking tips while preparing your Spicy Chicken Lazone Pasta!
