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Chicken Lazone is my go-to when I want big flavor in minimal time creamy pasta perfectly coats smoky-spiced chicken and a rich sauce brings it all together in under half an hour. This dish tastes as decadent as any restaurant meal but can be pulled off with simple pantry staples and some chicken breasts. Nothing beats the way the creamy sauce clings to every noodle and bite of chicken.
My family never tires of this one I made it just as an easy dinner and the plate was wiped clean in minutes That seasoned chicken in the velvety sauce never fails to impress
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Choose ones that are roughly equal in thickness for even cooking
- Olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick and adds extra richness
- Unsalted butter: Divided so you get perfectly pan-fried chicken and a deeply flavored sauce
- Linguine: Classic for soaking up plenty of sauce choose a brand with a firm texture
- Fresh garlic: Minced garlic brings a kick of flavor use plump fresh cloves for best results
- Half and half: This creates the creamy base if substituting make your own with whole milk and heavy cream
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: These amplify every flavor freshly cracked pepper makes a difference
- Chopped fresh parsley: For garnish and a fresh herbal finish choose bright green bunches for the best look
- Smoked paprika: The star of the seasoning for deep smoky flavor Spanish paprika will really shine here
- Garlic powder: For layering that classic garlicky punch above the fresh version
- Onion powder: Brings sweetness and body to the seasoning blend
- Cayenne pepper: Delivers subtle heat use less for milder results
- Dried oregano: Old-fashioned herb flavor check for fresh aroma
- Dried basil: Balances the earthiness and spice shop for whole leaves not powder for the best taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Seasoning:
- In a small bowl mix smoked paprika garlic powder onion powder cayenne pepper dried oregano and dried basil with a generous pinch of salt and plenty of freshly ground black pepper This custom blend gives the chicken its signature flavor
- Coat the Chicken:
- Slice chicken breasts in half crosswise Add the pieces to a large zip top bag drizzle in olive oil and add the seasoning mixture Seal and shake until every piece is coated inside and out Use your hands to move things around if needed
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium high Cook the chicken pieces without crowding flipping after about 4 to 5 minutes or when you see deep brown edges Continue to cook for another 4 to 5 minutes until juices run clear Keep chicken warm on a plate loosely tented with foil
- Boil the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil Season it heavily with salt Drop in the linguine and cook according to the package until al dente Drain well but do not rinse
- Build the Sauce:
- Add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter into the same skillet Reduce heat to medium Stir in minced garlic and let it cook just until fragrant about one minute Pour in half and half whisking and scraping up any brown bits on the pan Cook until the sauce thickens enough to just coat the back of a spoon about 4 to 5 minutes Season again with salt and pepper
- Combine and Serve:
- Add drained linguine directly to the skillet Toss gently to coat every strand in cream sauce Arrange chicken on top and spoon some extra sauce over everything Sprinkle chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness Serve right away for maximum flavor
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The smoked paprika in the seasoning really brings the magic I have a soft spot for it because it always reminds me of my first trip to Spain where I learned the joy of adding deep spice blends to even weeknight meals Chicken Lazone never fails to get everyone to the table fast
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days If sauce appears too thick when reheating add a splash of milk or water and stir gently on the stovetop Not recommended for freezing as the sauce may separate and pasta texture can become mushy
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap in boneless chicken thighs for more flavor or if you prefer dark meat Any long pasta like fettuccine or spaghetti works in place of linguine To make it dairy free use olive oil or vegan butter and almond or oat milk with cornstarch for thickening adjust seasoning to compensate for milk alternatives
Serving Suggestions
Plate Chicken Lazone with a crisp green salad or lightly sautéed green beans for balance Warm crusty bread is excellent for mopping up extra sauce For a fresh twist squeeze a wedge of lemon just before serving or top with extra fresh parsley
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Cultural or Historical Context
Chicken Lazone is a New Orleans inspired dish The signature creamy sauce and bold spice blend tap into the city’s love for deep flavors and French heritage With roots in classic Cajun cooking it combines richly seasoned meat with decadent sauce and plenty of pasta for a truly satisfying Southern meal
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for quick, even cooking and a tender result.
- → Can I substitute another pasta for linguine?
Yes, fettuccine or spaghetti also complement the creamy chicken and sauce beautifully.
- → How do I prevent the cream sauce from curdling?
Gradually add the half and half over low to medium heat while stirring to keep the sauce smooth.
- → Is it possible to make this dish ahead?
The chicken and seasoning can be prepped ahead, but cook the pasta and sauce just before serving for best texture.
- → How spicy is the seasoning?
The cayenne pepper adds gentle warmth, but you can adjust the amount to your taste.
- → Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Spinach or sautéed mushrooms pair nicely and can be stirred into the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.