Chicken Lazone

If you’re looking for a creamy, flavorful dish that can elevate your weeknight dinner, then look no further than Chicken Lazone. This Southern-inspired recipe is a delightful combination of tender chicken breasts and a rich, creamy sauce that’s both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re serving it over a bed of pasta or simply enjoying it on its own, Chicken Lazone is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the details!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Chicken Lazone is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll adore this recipe:

– **Rich and Creamy Sauce**: The heavy cream and spices create a sauce that’s simply irresistible.
– **Quick to Prepare**: With just a few steps, you can have dinner on the table in no time.
– **Versatile**: Pair it with your favorite pasta, rice, or vegetables for a complete meal.
– **Flavorful**: The blend of spices, including garlic powder and chili powder, adds a wonderful depth to the dish.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved lengthwise)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon ground paprika
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¾ cup unsalted butter (1 ½ sticks, divided)
• ¾ cup diced yellow onion
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup heavy cream (room temperature)
• Cooked penne pasta
• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Equipment Breakdown

• Large Skillet: For cooking the chicken and sauce.
• Cutting Board: Essential for preparing the chicken and vegetables.
• Sharp Knife: To halve the chicken and chop the onions and garlic.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurements of ingredients.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For stirring the sauce.

Chicken Lazone in Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by seasoning the halved chicken breasts with garlic powder, chili powder, onion powder, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear them for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the remaining ¼ cup of unsalted butter. Once melted, toss in the diced yellow onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring constantly for about 1 minute. Gradually pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through. Serve the Chicken Lazone over a bed of cooked penne pasta and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

• Replace penne pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour to thicken the sauce while keeping it keto-friendly.
• Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.

Troubles You Can Avoid

• Ensure the chicken breasts are evenly cut to ensure consistent cooking times.
• Don’t skip the step of letting the sauce simmer; this helps develop the rich flavors.
• Use room temperature heavy cream to prevent curdling when added to the hot skillet.
• Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure the best flavor.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Chicken Lazone is a fantastic dish for meal prep! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Lazone any day of the week!

FAQ

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more flavor and tenderness to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and sour cream. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream works well.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes! If you love heat, feel free to add more chili powder or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. You can also include diced jalapeños when sautéing the onions.

What can I serve with Chicken Lazone?

Chicken Lazone is delicious served over pasta, but it also pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Your options are endless!

Time to Try It

Now that you have all the tools and knowledge you need, it’s time to whip up this mouthwatering Chicken Lazone! With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s bound to become a new favorite in your household. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delightful meal that’s sure to impress. Happy cooking!