Indulge in the bold flavors of Spicy Chicken Lazone Pasta, a savory dish bursting with spice and creaminess that’s sure to excite your taste buds. This recipe combines perfectly seasoned chicken tenders with a rich, velvety sauce and linguine pasta for a comforting meal. It’s an excellent choice for a family dinner or a special occasion when you want to impress your guests with a delightful, homemade dish.
Ingredients
To create the flavorful Spicy Chicken Lazone Pasta, gather the following ingredients:
Seasoning Mixture
- 1 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- 2 teaspoons Creole seasoning (or Cajun seasoning): Provides a classic spicy and aromatic flavor profile.
- 2 teaspoons paprika powder: Adds color and a mild sweetness to the seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Offers depth and a subtle sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder: Infuses the dish with a robust garlic flavor.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Helps to coat the chicken and thicken the sauce.
Chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For cooking the chicken, providing healthy fats.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness to the chicken and enhances flavor.
- 1 lb chicken tenders: The main protein, tender and quick-cooking.
Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter: Forms the base of the creamy sauce.
- Remaining seasoning mixture: From the dredging process, to flavor the sauce.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Creates a rich, creamy texture in the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: To deepen the color and flavor of the sauce.
Pasta
- 8 oz. linguine: The perfect noodle for capturing the rich sauce.
- 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh garnish and flavor contrast.
- ½ cup pasta water (reserve it): Helps adjust the sauce consistency.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning Mixture
In a small bowl, combine sea salt, Creole seasoning, paprika powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and all-purpose flour. This will create your seasoning blend, which not only flavors the chicken but also thickens the sauce later.
Step 2: Dredge the Chicken
Take the chicken tenders and dredge them in the seasoning mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated. Shake off any excess flour to avoid a clumpy appearance. Reserve any leftover seasoning mixture for the sauce, as it will be needed later for adding flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, add olive oil and butter. Once hot, place the seasoned chicken tenders in the pan and cook for about 8 minutes, turning them halfway through, until cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add 4 tablespoons of butter and the reserved seasoning mixture. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until the flour is cooked and no longer raw. Add the additional paprika and heavy cream to the pan, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your preference.
Step 5: Prepare the Pasta
In the meantime, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but do not rinse it. Remember to reserve ½ cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Return to the sauce and if you find it too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Once ready, add the cooked linguine directly into the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta thoroughly. Follow by adding the cooked chicken back into the skillet, allowing it to reheat gently while mixing with the sauce and pasta.
Step 7: Serve
Divide the Spicy Chicken Lazone Pasta onto plates and generously spoon the creamy sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish!
Cooking Tips
- Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, use a mild version of Creole seasoning or reduce the amount used. Conversely, you can add extra spice with cayenne pepper if you like it hotter.
- Chicken Alternatives: You can substitute chicken tenders with chicken breasts or thighs, but ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Thighs might take slightly longer due to their size.
- Pasta Choice: While linguine is recommended, this dish works well with other pasta types like fettuccine or penne.
- Creaminess Level: To make a lighter sauce, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or a combination of both for a balance of richness and lightness.
Variations
- Vegetable Option: Substitute chicken with sautéed shrimp, tofu, or a mixture of vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a vegetarian twist.
- Different Proteins: Feel free to use other proteins, such as shrimp or sliced steak, adjusted to suit your tastes and dietary preferences.
- Flavor Infusion: Enhance your dish by adding sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for added depth and flavor.
- Cheese Lover’s Delight: Stir in some grated Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess and a cheesy flavor.
FAQs
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce earlier in the day. Just reheat it gently, and then add the cooked pasta and chicken when you’re ready to serve.
Is this dish freezable?
While the pasta can be frozen, it’s best to freeze the chicken and sauce separately. Reheat gently on the stove; freshly cooked pasta can be added during the reheating process.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for those avoiding gluten.
How can I make it spicier?
Add more Creole seasoning or include some crushed red pepper flakes during the cooking process to kick up the heat.
Conclusion
The Spicy Chicken Lazone Pasta is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting and hearty meal that is packed with flavor. This easy-to-follow recipe features a kick of spice, making it a delightful option for any occasion. Perfect for those who love creamy pasta with a zesty twist, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Don’t forget to share this culinary gem with your family and friends—happy cooking!