If you’re searching for a comforting yet elegant dish that impresses with creamy richness and vibrant flavors, this Chicken a la King Recipe is exactly what you need. Classic and timeless, it’s the perfect blend of tender chicken, luscious sauce, and a medley of vegetables that come together in a velvety gravy that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe promises satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, staple ingredients is all it takes to create the magic behind this dish. Each component plays a crucial role, from the butter that lays the foundation for flavor to the fresh vegetables that add a pop of color and crunch.
- ½ cup unsalted butter: Provides a rich base to sauté the vegetables and build flavor.
- 1 medium green bell pepper: Adds a fresh, slightly sweet crunch that brightens the sauce.
- 1 small sweet onion: Offers a subtle sweetness and depth during the sauté process.
- 2 cloves garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and a hint of zing.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: Acts as the thickening agent for the silky sauce.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, making them pop.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
- 2 ½ cups chicken stock: Creates a savory, flavorful liquid base for the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Brings luxurious creaminess and smooth texture.
- 3 cups diced cooked chicken: The hearty protein star of the dish.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Adds bursts of sweetness and a beautiful green color.
- 4 ounces jar diced pimentos: Provide a mild, tangy pop and vibrant red hue.
How to Make Chicken a la King Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Begin by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced green bell pepper and sweet onion. Let them cook slowly until they become tender and fragrant, about 10 minutes, creating a flavorful base that’s key to this sauce’s depth.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds. This short cooking time helps release its aromatic oils without overpowering the other ingredients.
Step 3: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour along with salt and pepper directly into the skillet. Stir everything well to combine, and cook for about one minute. This step is crucial for creating a roux, which will thicken the sauce and ensure it’s perfectly smooth.
Step 4: Incorporate Liquids
Slowly whisk in the chicken stock first, followed by the heavy cream. Stirring continuously will help prevent lumps and create a luscious, creamy sauce that coats every spoonful with richness.
Step 5: Simmer and Thicken
Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer and let it thicken over about 5 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally to maintain that velvety consistency and prevent sticking.
Step 6: Add Chicken and Vegetables
Now it’s time to add the diced cooked chicken, frozen peas, and jarred diced pimentos. Stir them in gently, allowing the flavors to meld as everything simmers together for an additional 3 minutes.
Step 7: Ready to Serve
Your Chicken a la King is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it piping hot over rice, pasta, or toasted bread for a hearty, satisfying meal that tastes like a warm hug on a plate.
How to Serve Chicken a la King Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the dish’s appeal by adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives on top. These fresh herbs not only add a lovely color contrast but bring a touch of brightness to the creamy richness.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides like fluffy white rice or buttery egg noodles, which soak up every bit of the savory sauce. For more texture, try a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables on the side — they bring balance to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Serve Chicken a la King on puff pastry shells for a classic, elegant presentation perfect for entertaining. Alternatively, scoop it over baked potatoes or creamy polenta for a comforting twist that still feels special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the second serving just as delightful.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, freeze the Chicken a la King in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. Adding a splash of cream or chicken broth can help rejuvenate the sauce’s creaminess after storage.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover cooked chicken works wonderfully and makes this recipe a perfect way to repurpose night-before dinner.
Is it possible to make a lighter version of Chicken a la King?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk and reduce the butter to lighten things up, although the dish will be less rich and creamy.
What types of chicken work best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs that are cooked and diced are ideal. You can poach, roast, or grill the chicken beforehand depending on your preference.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Mushrooms, carrots, or celery can be great additions and add more texture and flavor to the classic recipe.
What should I serve with Chicken a la King?
Traditionally, it’s served over rice, toast points, or noodles, but don’t be afraid to get creative with your favorite starch or vegetable side dishes.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken a la King Recipe is a wonderful way to bring a taste of classic comfort to your table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s been a beloved dish for generations. So go ahead and whip it up—you’ll be rewarded with a creamy, delicious meal that feels like a warm embrace.
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Chicken a la King Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Chicken a la King is a classic, creamy comfort dish featuring tender diced chicken in a rich sauce of butter, bell pepper, onions, garlic, and a velvety cream-based gravy. This recipe is easy to prepare on the stovetop and perfect served over rice, pasta, or toast for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small sweet onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 ½ cups chicken stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups diced cooked chicken
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 4 ounces jar diced pimentos, drained
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced green bell pepper and onion, and sauté until softened, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Create Roux: Sprinkle the flour, salt, and black pepper into the skillet. Mix thoroughly and cook for about one minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in chicken stock followed by heavy cream to form a smooth sauce, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Simmer Sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to thicken for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the diced cooked chicken, frozen peas, and diced pimentos. Mix well and simmer together for another 3 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.
- Serve: Serve the chicken a la King immediately over your choice of rice, pasta, or toast for a warm and comforting meal.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken leftover from a roast or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste before serving.
- This dish pairs well with buttered toast, fluffy white rice, or egg noodles.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
