Classic Chicken à la King Recipe

Classic Chicken à la King Recipe

Chicken à la King is a classic American dish known for its rich, creamy texture and savory flavor. With tender pieces of chicken, a medley of vegetables, and a luscious sauce, it’s a comforting meal that pairs beautifully with rice or flaky biscuits. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, Chicken à la King offers a delightful and satisfying experience.

Introduction

Chicken à la King has been a beloved staple in American cuisine for decades. This dish combines succulent chicken with a velvety sauce made from butter, cream, and a blend of vegetables. It’s often served over a bed of rice or accompanied by flaky biscuits, making it a versatile option for any occasion. The creamy texture and flavorful ingredients make it a comforting choice, perfect for weeknight dinners or special family meals.

Ingredients

• 8 tablespoons butter (½ cup)
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms or white button mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon dry mustard
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 7 ounces diced pimentos, well drained
• 3 cups cooked, diced or shredded chicken

Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables

• Melt the butter over medium-high heat in a large pot or Dutch oven.
• Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to brown.
• Add the chopped onion and diced green bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are softened and the mushrooms are golden brown.

1. Prepare the Sauce Base

• Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the minced garlic and dry mustard to the pot, stirring for about 30 seconds.
• Sprinkle in the flour, stirring continuously to combine. Cook and stir for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
• Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture begins to thicken, about 5 minutes.

1. Combine Ingredients

• Reduce the heat to low and stir in the half-and-half. Add the frozen peas, well-drained pimentos, and cooked chicken.
• Stir until everything is heated through and the peas are tender. If the mixture becomes too thick, gradually add one-quarter cup of chicken broth at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

1. Serve

• Serve the Chicken à la King over rice, noodles, toast, biscuits, or puff pastry shells. Enjoy this hearty meal hot for the best experience.

Tips for Perfect Chicken à la King

• Brown the Mushrooms Well: Taking the time to brown the mushrooms enhances their flavor and makes the dish more visually appealing.
• Drain the Pimentos Thoroughly: Ensure that the pimentos are well-drained to avoid unwanted liquid in the dish.
• Use Frozen Peas: Frozen peas hold their color, shape, and flavor better than canned or fresh peas during the cooking process.
• Adjust Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, adjust the consistency by adding chicken broth, a little at a time.
• Lighten It Up: For a lower-fat version, reduce the butter and cream. The dish will still be delicious but less rich.

FAQs

1. Can I use cooked rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, using cooked rotisserie chicken is a convenient option. Just shred or dice the chicken and add it to the sauce as directed.

2. Can I make Chicken à la King ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Chicken à la King ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little chicken broth if necessary to adjust the consistency.

3. Can I freeze Chicken à la King?

Chicken à la King can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Reheat thoroughly in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed.

4. What can I serve with Chicken à la King?

Chicken à la King pairs well with a variety of sides including rice, noodles, toast, biscuits, or puff pastry shells. Choose your favorite option to complement the creamy sauce.

5. Can I use a different type of cream instead of half-and-half?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream or whole milk for half-and-half. Heavy cream will make the dish richer, while whole milk will be a bit lighter.

Chicken à la King is a timeless recipe that combines rich flavors and comforting textures, making it a favorite for many. By following these instructions and tips, you can create a delicious meal that will be enjoyed by all.