If you crave a dish that perfectly balances creamy indulgence with a flavorful kick, this Spicy Chicken Lazone Pasta Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Tender, seasoned chicken meets a luscious, cheesy sauce that clings beautifully to every bite of pasta, delivering a satisfying and comforting experience that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re entertaining friends or enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe brings a wonderful blend of spice, creaminess, and hearty goodness to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Spicy Chicken Lazone Pasta Recipe is straightforward and rewarding—each component adds a special touch that contributes to the perfect harmony of flavors, textures, and colors. From the aromatic spices to the rich cream and sharp Parmesan, these carefully chosen ingredients come together to create a dish that’s as vibrant as it is delicious.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Provides tender, juicy protein for the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sear the chicken to a golden perfection.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky depth and beautiful color.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Brings subtle sweetness and complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste): Packs the signature spicy punch.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds warmth and a mild bite.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning both chicken and pasta water.
- 8 oz penne pasta (or your choice of pasta): The perfect canvas to hold the creamy sauce.
- Salt for pasta water: It seasons the pasta from within.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates richness in the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Balances the butter for a silky sauce base.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with fragrant warmth.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and helps thin the sauce slightly.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a sharp, salty bite that thickens the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional for extra spice): Brings a complex medley of spices if you want more heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste): Adds an additional layer of spice.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: For final seasoning touches.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): Adds a pop of green and freshness.
How to Make Spicy Chicken Lazone Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil—seasoning the pasta water is a simple trick that flavors your pasta from the inside out. Cook your chosen pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. Drain and keep it aside, but don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of the pasta water; it’s a clever secret that helps adjust your sauce’s consistency later.
Step 2: Prepare the Spice Mix and Chicken
In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt to create a bold spice rub. This combination creates the distinctive flavor profile that defines the Spicy Chicken Lazone Pasta Recipe. Rub the mix generously onto both sides of your chicken breasts—it’s where the magic starts!
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the spice-rubbed chicken breasts and cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until they’re beautifully golden and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, set the chicken aside to rest—resting keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter together with an additional tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, sautéing it gently for about a minute until fragrant—watch closely so it doesn’t burn, as garlic is the heart of this sauce. Then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring as the sauce simmers and thickens slightly over 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. If you want even more heat, add the optional Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes now, adjusting salt and pepper to your liking. Let the sauce simmer an additional 2 to 3 minutes, allowing those spices to infuse and the sauce to thicken to creamy perfection.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Chicken
Slice the rested chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces that will blend beautifully with the pasta. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat every piece evenly with the sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in some of your reserved pasta water a little at a time until it reaches the ideal creamy texture. Finally, fold in the sliced chicken, combining everything for that perfect meld of spicy, creamy, and savory goodness.
How to Serve Spicy Chicken Lazone Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled over the top is a simple way to add a vibrant green contrast and a touch of herbal brightness that balances the richness. For an extra indulgent touch, grate a bit more Parmesan on top just before serving—this makes each forkful even more irresistible.
Side Dishes
This Spicy Chicken Lazone Pasta Recipe pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides like a crisp garden salad or steamed green beans to balance the richness. Garlic bread is another great choice, perfect for scooping up any leftover creamy sauce, making your meal even more delightful.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this pasta in individual bowls with a sprig of fresh parsley or basil on top for a rustic look. Alternatively, pack it into small ramekins and broil just long enough to brown the cheese slightly for a café-style baked pasta presentation that’s sure to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since this Spicy Chicken Lazone Pasta Recipe contains dairy and chicken, keeping it chilled ensures freshness and safety while maintaining the creamy texture.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible but best done without the pasta for optimal texture. Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low to medium heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Avoid microwave reheating if possible, as slow warming keeps the creamy texture intact and the chicken tender.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne works beautifully for holding the creamy sauce, you can use fusilli, rigatoni, or even fettuccine depending on your preference. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly to keep the pasta al dente.
How spicy is the Spicy Chicken Lazone Pasta Recipe?
The dish offers a nice medium heat thanks to cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, and optional Cajun seasoning. You can easily adjust the spice to your taste by reducing or increasing those ingredients without compromising the delicious flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, swap the chicken breasts for firm tofu or sautéed mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The creamy sauce and spices will still deliver plenty of tasty, comforting flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! The Spicy Chicken Lazone Pasta Recipe reheats well and makes a great meal prep option. Keep the sauce and chicken separate from the pasta if possible while storing, and combine at mealtime for best texture.
What wine pairs well with this pasta dish?
Try a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly chilled Pinot Grigio. Both wines cut through the richness of the sauce and complement the spicy and creamy elements wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Chicken Lazone Pasta Recipe is that perfect blend of creamy comfort and lively spice that you’ll want to make again and again. It’s straightforward enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to impress. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this unforgettable pasta delight!
Print
Spicy Chicken Lazone Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A rich and creamy Spicy Chicken Lazone Pasta featuring tender pan-seared chicken breasts coated in a flavorful blend of spices, tossed with al dente pasta in a luscious cream sauce infused with garlic, Parmesan, and Cajun seasonings. This easy stovetop recipe delivers a perfect balance of heat and savoriness ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta (or your choice of pasta)
- Salt for pasta water
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional for extra spice)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.
- Prepare the Spice Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt to create the spice rub for the chicken.
- Season the Chicken: Rub the prepared spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest.
- Start the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Cream and Broth: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Incorporate Seasonings: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning (if using), red pepper flakes, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
- Slice the Chicken: While the sauce simmers, slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized pieces for easy mixing.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen it.
- Add Chicken to Pasta: Incorporate the sliced chicken into the pasta and sauce mixture. Toss thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Serve: Plate the Spicy Chicken Lazone Pasta immediately. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Adjust cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes to control the heat level according to your preference.
- Use any pasta shape you prefer; penne works well to hold the creamy sauce.
- Reserve pasta water to help loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to retain its juices and keep it tender.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but sauce will be less rich.
