Looking for a delicious meal that’s quick to make on those hectic weeknights? Chicken Lazone is here to save the day! This mouthwatering dish features tender chicken tenders seasoned with a zesty blend of spices, cooked to golden perfection, and then smothered in a rich and creamy sauce. In just 20 minutes, you can have a satisfying dinner ready to enjoy with your loved ones. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 ½ tsp chili powder
- 1 ½ tsp onion powder
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- 2 lb chicken tenders
- ¼ cup butter, divided
- 2 cups heavy cream
Directions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by combining the salt, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl. Sprinkle this flavorful spice mixture over both sides of the chicken tenders, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large sauté pan, melt half of the butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the seasoned chicken tenders to the pan. Cook them for about 8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and fully cooked.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Once the chicken is cooked through, it’s time to create the creamy sauce. Pour the heavy cream and remaining butter into the skillet with the chicken. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the pan.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the sauce has thickened, your Chicken Lazone is ready to be served! Plate the chicken tenders and spoon the creamy sauce generously over the top. For a complete meal, consider serving it with pasta or mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious flavor.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 489 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 24g
- Cholesterol: 216mg
- Sodium: 596mg
- Potassium: 485mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Vitamin A: 1911IU
- Vitamin C: 1mg
- Calcium: 83mg
- Iron: 1mg
Serving Tips:
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro over the Chicken Lazone just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
- Add a Squeeze of Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a bright and tangy flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Serve with Crusty Bread: Crusty French bread or garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce and soaking up all the delicious flavors.
- Pair with a Side Salad: Balance out the richness of the dish with a crisp side salad dressed with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Customize with Vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach, to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any leftover Chicken Lazone in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat Gently: To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid overheating to prevent the cream sauce from separating.
- Freeze for Future Meals: If you have more leftovers than you can consume within a few days, consider freezing them. Place cooled Chicken Lazone in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- Thaw Properly: When ready to enjoy the frozen leftovers, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Refresh Before Serving: Before serving reheated leftovers, you may want to refresh the dish by adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to the sauce to restore its creamy consistency and flavor.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can make the most out of your Chicken Lazone, whether you’re enjoying it freshly cooked or as a convenient leftover meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: If you love heat, amp up the cayenne pepper in the seasoning blend or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Creamy Mushroom Sauce: Enhance the sauce by sautéing sliced mushrooms in butter before adding the cream. Their earthy flavor pairs perfectly with the spices and chicken.
- Citrus Twist: For a refreshing twist, add zest from a lemon or lime to the seasoning blend. The citrusy aroma will brighten up the dish and add a burst of flavor.
- Healthy Swap: Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut cream for a lighter version of Chicken Lazone without sacrificing creaminess.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella over the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy finish that melts into the creamy sauce.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil to customize the flavor profile of the dish according to your preference.
- Protein Variation: Swap chicken tenders for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or cauliflower florets for a vegetarian version of this flavorful dish. Coat them in the spice blend and follow the same cooking steps.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce instead of traditional flour, making this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Tex-Mex Twist: Incorporate Tex-Mex flavors by adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika and a dash of cumin to the seasoning blend. Serve with a side of salsa or guacamole for a Southwestern flair.
These variations offer endless possibilities to customize Chicken Lazone to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different ingredients to create your own signature version of this delicious dish!
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
- What is Chicken Lazone? Chicken Lazone is a flavorful dish featuring tender chicken tenders seasoned with a spicy blend of spices and cooked until golden brown, then simmered in a rich and creamy sauce.
- Where does Chicken Lazone originate from? Chicken Lazone is a popular dish believed to have originated in the southern United States, particularly in the state of Louisiana. It’s known for its bold flavors and simple preparation.
- What are the key ingredients in Chicken Lazone? The key ingredients in Chicken Lazone include chicken tenders, spices such as chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper, butter, and heavy cream.
- Is Chicken Lazone spicy? Chicken Lazone does have a bit of a kick due to the spices like chili powder and cayenne pepper used in the seasoning blend. However, you can adjust the level of spiciness to your preference by reducing or increasing the amount of these spices.
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders? Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders in Chicken Lazone. Simply slice the chicken breasts into thinner pieces to ensure even cooking, and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- What can I serve with Chicken Lazone? Chicken Lazone pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. Crusty bread or a fresh salad also make excellent accompaniments.
- Can I make Chicken Lazone ahead of time? While Chicken Lazone is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the seasoning blend and marinate the chicken in advance to save time. However, it’s recommended to cook the chicken and make the sauce just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
- Is Chicken Lazone suitable for a low-carb diet? Chicken Lazone can be adapted for a low-carb diet by omitting or reducing the amount of flour used in the seasoning blend and thickening the sauce with a low-carb alternative such as xanthan gum or arrowroot powder.
- Can I freeze Chicken Lazone? Yes, you can freeze Chicken Lazone for future enjoyment. Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, and it can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- How do I reheat Chicken Lazone? Reheat Chicken Lazone gently over low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid overheating to prevent the cream sauce from separating. You may need to add a splash of cream or chicken broth to refresh the sauce before serving.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, Chicken Lazone is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave something flavorful and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try and delight your taste buds with every bite!