Chef John's Chicken Lazone Recipe

Name: Chef John's Chicken Lazone
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 90 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika; cayenne; black pepper; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder; 4 large boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, or to taste; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1/2 lemon, juiced; 2/3 cup heavy cream; 1/3 cup water; 1/4 cup sliced green onions; 1 tablespoon cold butter, cubed

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Virtually everything about going to New Orleans to eat its famously amazing food is a positive experience, except there is one issue that I should warn you about. After your trip, you will see or hear about a dish that you didnt get to try while you were there, and you cant help being a little bit sad. Thats happened to me several times, and this Chicken Lazone recipe is the latest example. I shouldnt feel too bad, since Ive only been to New Orleans twice, for a total of 6 days, and you can only eat (and drink, and drink) so much in that amount of time. Apparently the restaurant where Chef Lazone Randolph invented this dish changed hands, and it was taken off the menu, so I might not have been able to get it anyway. Despite not being able to compare it to the original, I thought this creamy Cajun-spiced chicken came out really well. It is very flavorful, requires almost no prep, and the spicy sauce is fantastic on pasta, which are just a few of the reasons why I really do hope you give it a try soon. Enjoy!

Ingredients

1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, or to taste
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/2 lemon, juiced
2/3 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup water
1/4 cup sliced green onions
1 tablespoon cold butter, cubed

Directions

Step 1: In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Set aside. This spice mixture will be used for both the chicken rub and the sauce.

Step 2: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt. Sprinkle half of the spice mixture over both sides of the chicken. Wrap the chicken in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight.

Step 3: Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-duty nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken, turning once, for about 3 to 4 minutes per side. The chicken should be about 75% cooked at this point, and it will finish cooking in the sauce. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Add the remaining spice mixture to the hot pan and stir for about 30 seconds to release the flavors. Add the lemon juice, heavy cream, and water. Stir in a pinch of salt, and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Once the sauce is simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low and return the chicken to the pan along with any juices accumulated on the plate. Let the chicken simmer gently in the sauce for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally to coat the chicken in the sauce. The chicken is done when it is no longer pink in the center, and the juices run clear. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the chicken should read 165F (74C).

Step 6: Reduce the heat to low, and add the sliced green onions and cubed cold butter to the sauce. Stir until the butter is melted, and the sauce becomes smooth. Be sure to baste the chicken with the sauce while stirring. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 7: Serve the Chicken Lazone immediately, spooning the creamy sauce over the chicken. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition Fact	Amount Per Serving
Calories	411
Total Fat	25g
Saturated Fat	13g
Cholesterol	155mg
Sodium	627mg
Total Carbohydrates	6g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Protein	39g
Vitamin C	12mg
Calcium	66mg
Iron	2mg
Potassium	463mg

Chef John's Chicken Lazone

History and Origins

The origins of Chicken Lazone can be traced to the culinary expertise of Chef Lazone Randolph, a New Orleans chef who created the dish in the late 20th century. Known for its bold combination of Cajun spices, creamy textures, and savory flavors, the dish quickly became a favorite in New Orleans restaurants. Unfortunately, the restaurant where it was first popularized changed hands, and the recipe was removed from its menu. However, Chef John's rendition of Chicken Lazone has kept the spirit of the dish alive, allowing food lovers to recreate this iconic New Orleans-inspired recipe at home.

Regional Variations

Chicken Lazone is deeply rooted in the flavors of Creole and Cajun cuisine. The dish features a rich blend of spices like chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic, and onion powderstaples in Southern cooking. In different regions of Louisiana, variations may include the use of different proteins such as shrimp or pork, or adding vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms. However, the key to its authenticity lies in the creamy, spiced sauce that coats the chicken, and its adaptability to a variety of side dishes like pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Distinctiveness from Similar Dishes

What sets Chicken Lazone apart from other Cajun or Creole chicken dishes is its smooth, creamy sauce that balances the spiciness of Cajun seasonings. Unlike dishes like Chicken Alfredo or traditional Cajun chicken, which rely more heavily on butter or oil-based sauces, Chicken Lazones signature is its velvety texture from heavy cream, creating a luxurious contrast to the heat of the spices. Additionally, the chicken is seared first and then simmered in the sauce, allowing it to absorb flavors and retain its tenderness.

Where to Serve Chicken Lazone

Chicken Lazone is commonly served as a main dish at both casual family dinners and upscale Creole restaurants. In New Orleans, it is often paired with pasta or served alongside rice to soak up the delicious sauce. The dish is popular for its ability to be prepared quickly with minimal ingredients, making it an ideal choice for weeknight meals or special occasions. Its also a great dish for entertaining, as it can be made in advance and enjoyed by a crowd.

Interesting Facts

Despite its Southern roots, Chicken Lazone gained a following far beyond Louisiana due to its rich flavor profile and ease of preparation. The dish is now a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs alike, thanks to its balance of heat and creaminess. One of the fascinating aspects of this recipe is that it can be easily modified for dietary preferencessome people substitute the chicken with fish, such as cod or even shrimp, and adjust the spiciness based on personal taste. Another interesting fact is that this dish can be paired with a variety of sides, from simple roasted vegetables to more elaborate pasta dishes, making it incredibly versatile.

Chef John's Chicken Lazone, with its blend of spices and creamy sauce, brings the spirit of New Orleans to your kitchen. Whether you are a fan of Cajun cuisine or simply looking for a new dinner idea, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for something flavorful and comforting.

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FAQ about Chef John's Chicken Lazone Recipe

Store any leftovers of Chicken Lazone in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken.

Yes, you can prepare Chicken Lazone in advance. You can season the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat both the chicken and sauce before serving.

Yes, Chicken Lazone can be frozen. Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove, adding a splash of water or cream to restore the sauce's consistency.

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or even a non-dairy option like coconut milk. Keep in mind that using lighter dairy or non-dairy alternatives may result in a thinner sauce.

To reheat Chicken Lazone, gently heat it on the stove over low heat to prevent drying out the chicken. You can add a small amount of water, cream, or broth to the sauce to loosen it up if needed.

Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts. Adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook. Chicken thighs will also result in a slightly juicier dish due to their higher fat content.

To adjust the spice level, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper for a milder version. Alternatively, you can add more cayenne or a hotter chili powder if you prefer a spicier dish. Taste the sauce as it cooks to ensure it reaches your desired spice level.

Chicken Lazone pairs well with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. For a healthier side, consider serving it with sautéed vegetables like spinach or a simple salad.

Yes, you can substitute chicken with other meats like pork tenderloin, shrimp, or even fish fillets. Adjust the cooking time depending on the protein used to ensure it is properly cooked.

To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the chicken.

Comments

Karen Scott

11/09/2023 06:29:23 PM

I followed the recipe exactly as printed, and it turned out amazing. Thank you!

Donald Martin

12/02/2023 03:39:29 PM

My wife found it too intense, but I personally adored this dish. I omitted the cayenne pepper and it still had a wonderful burst of flavor. It paired perfectly with fettuccine.

Karen Moore

06/21/2023 12:28:26 AM

We enhanced the sauce with fresh halved cherry tomatoes just before serving and seasoned the pasta with onion butter seasoning. The chicken was served on top of the pasta and it was absolutely delicious. I am looking forward to making this dish again. It was easy to prepare, I appreciated the minimal prep, and everyone enjoyed it as evidenced by clean plates all around.

Ruth Adams

06/09/2023 03:11:51 PM

Absolutely delightful! There wasn't a single bite left, indicating how fantastic it was! I opted for Korean chili flakes for a more subtle heat, complemented perfectly by the cayenne. Served it over tagliatelle with a side of sautéed spinach and leek seasoned with garlic and chili flakes to keep it light and nutritious. It was a breeze to whip up with minimal prep, making it ideal for hectic weeknights. I will definitely be preparing this dish again.

Laura Nelson

10/03/2022 07:25:15 PM

Tasty sauce!! I used chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts, but followed the rest of the recipe, and it was a big hit with my young granddaughters.

Susan Campbell

01/02/2023 10:54:03 AM

Here is the rewritten review: Unfortunately, I didn't have green onions or cream on hand, so I skipped the onions and substituted with sour cream instead. That was the only tweak I made, otherwise, I stuck to the recipe as instructed. The sauce did separate slightly, but I managed to fix it by blending it with an immersion blender. The dish turned out to be incredibly tasty! It's definitely going into my collection of go-to recipes!

Christine Roberts

04/09/2024 10:42:32 PM

This recipe was quite nice and relatively straightforward to prepare. I opted for chicken tenderloins instead of breasts, which required some minor adjustments to the cooking time. While there is another Chicken Lazone recipe on this website that is quite similar, I personally prefer this one. I served it over tri-color rotini pasta since I used tenderloins, but if I had used chicken breasts, I might have chosen linguine or fettuccine. Generally, it made for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Appreciate it, Chef John!

Scott Baker

05/22/2025 09:02:42 AM

I followed the recipe closely but made a few tweaks. The result? Absolutely delicious! The chicken turned out incredibly moist, and even my husband, who isn't a fan of boneless skinless chicken breasts, enjoyed it. I added some extra cayenne and substituted water with low-sodium chicken broth, based on other reviews. The sauce was fantastic, and the chicken was even more flavorful. This dish is not only tasty but also simple to prepare. Big thanks to Chef John for sharing this recipe!

Jose Brown

10/27/2023 08:55:31 PM

This recipe is incredibly simple and absolutely delicious. We opted to use large chicken breasts and sliced them before serving, with the remaining sauce served on the side. We will definitely be making this again. It is also easily customizable to accommodate various preferences.

Tyler Wright

11/24/2023 11:20:14 AM

Great spice blend with a smooth level of spiciness. I cooked two larger boneless chicken breasts and kept the sauce amount the same. It paired perfectly with Ben's Ready Rice, a blend of long grain and wild rice. Can't wait to enjoy it even more tomorrow!

Jose Brown

06/30/2024 10:10:39 AM

I was searching for a new chicken recipe, as always (who isn't, lol), and decided to give this one a shot. It turned out to be fantastic! I used 2 chicken breasts for 2 servings, but followed the recipe for 4 servings for the sauce. However, I didn't use all the spice mix in the sauce as it turned out quite spicy. I also reduced the lemon to 2 tablespoons since my husband isn't a fan of strong lemon flavors, but I knew it needed some acidity to balance out the creaminess and spiciness. I highly recommend this recipe and believe it would also work well with other proteins like pork tenderloin or even fish.

Virginia Carter

05/31/2025 04:05:53 AM

"Straightforward and uncomplicated."

Brian King

09/03/2023 02:02:00 AM

This meal deserves a solid 5-star rating and more. The sauce is absolutely superb, complementing not only the side dishes but also enhancing the juiciness and tenderness of the chicken. I decided to throw in some large South Carolina white shrimp towards the end of cooking, and the result was simply magnificent!

Anna Hall

03/19/2025 09:55:46 AM

All six individuals who tried this dish absolutely loved it. I will definitely be making it again. Served it over a bed of rice.

Benjamin Thomas

04/11/2024 12:57:19 AM

Followed the recipe exactly as written. Absolutely delicious and will definitely make it again. Having the leftovers tonight.

Stephanie Rivera

07/14/2023 07:46:27 AM

This dish was prepared in no time. I would consider adding extra lemon next time for a more pronounced flavor.

Kevin Parker

09/14/2022 07:57:27 AM

This recipe is simple to follow. My kids really enjoyed it. I will definitely suggest it to my friends.

Nicole Nguyen

12/02/2022 12:35:10 PM

This recipe has been a beloved staple in our family for years. I usually skip the lemon, but I'm curious to try it sometime. I prefer using chicken cutlets instead of chicken breast for a thinner cut that absorbs the spices more thoroughly. Occasionally, I'll throw in some mushrooms and we typically enjoy it over farfalle pasta or with a side of mashed potatoes.

Emily Turner

11/22/2023 09:24:19 AM

I prepared this dish for the first time today. Instead of using 4 chicken breasts, I opted for 2, but I proceeded to make the sauce as if I were using 4, and I'm thrilled I did. I followed the recipe exactly, but I decided to add a tablespoon of sugar to the sauce before reintroducing the chicken. The slight sweetness was perfect, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The sauce is absolutely delicious! Additionally, I oven roasted some cubed potatoes, onions, and carrots mixed with olive oil that needed to be used up. The sauce complemented the potatoes and chicken beautifully. I will definitely be making this again. It was simple to make and incredibly flavorful!

Cook Time: 60 minutes