Okay, friends, let’s talk comfort food. There are some dishes that just scream “home,” right? And for me, Chicken a la King is right up there. It’s like the sophisticated cousin of Chicken Noodle Soup – creamy, savory, and just… satisfying. You know how you sometimes crave that feeling of being wrapped in a warm blanket? That’s exactly what this Chicken a la King Recipe does for me every time. My grandma used to make this on special occasions, and even though it feels fancy, it’s surprisingly simple to whip up. I swear, you’ll feel like you’re eating in a fancy restaurant without even leaving your kitchen!

What is chicken a la king?

So, what *is* Chicken a la King, anyway? Think of it as a creamy, dreamy stew featuring tender chicken, mushrooms, peppers, and sometimes peas, all swimming in a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s essentially chicken in a velvety, sherry-infused cream sauce, often served over toast points, rice, or even Puff Pastry shells. The name’s origin is a bit murky – some say it was created for a wealthy hotel patron, others claim it’s named after a chef – but regardless, the dish itself is pure royalty in my book. It’s an old-school classic, and for good reason! It’s elegant enough for a dinner party but simple enough for a weeknight meal, and that’s a win-win in my book.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Oh, where do I even begin? This Chicken a la King Recipe isn’t just good, it’s *amazing*. First and foremost, the flavor is just incredible. You’ve got that savory chicken, the earthiness of the mushrooms, the sweetness of the peppers, all mingling together in this unbelievably creamy sauce that’s just bursting with flavor. What I love most about this is how deceptively simple it is to make. Seriously, don’t let the fancy name fool you! It comes together in about 30 minutes, which makes it a lifesaver on busy weeknights. And the best part? It’s incredibly cost-efficient. Chicken and veggies are staples in my kitchen, so I usually have everything I need on hand. Plus, it’s versatile! I’ve served it over everything from toast to rice to pasta – even biscuits! It’s way better than that canned stuff you might remember from childhood! You really can’t go wrong. It reminds me a bit of creamed chipped beef (another favorite!), but with a more elevated flavor profile. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll never look at chicken the same way again.

How do I make chicken a la king?

Quick Overview

Alright, let’s get down to business! Making Chicken a la King is easier than you think. Basically, you’ll start by sautéing some veggies, then you’ll create a luscious cream sauce, add the chicken and veggies, and simmer it all together until it’s thick and bubbly. The secret is in the sauce – a good sherry and a little bit of patience will do wonders! It’s a one-pot wonder that requires minimal cleanup, and I promise, the results are totally worth it. Don’t be intimidated; this is totally doable, even for beginner cooks!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs cooked chicken, shredded or diced. I usually use leftover roasted chicken, but you can also poach or bake it. If you’re poaching, a little chicken bouillon in the water adds some great flavor!
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 8 oz sliced mushrooms (cremini or button work great)

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth. Low sodium is best so you can control the salt.
• 1 cup heavy cream. If you want a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
• 1/4 cup dry sherry. What are some good substitutes for chicken broth?
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 1/4 cup frozen peas, thawed (optional, but adds a nice pop of color and sweetness)

How do I follow step

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the onion and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and are tender, another 5-7 minutes. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the veggies will steam instead of sauté. I always add a pinch of salt at this stage to help them release their moisture.

Step 2: Make the Roux

How do you melt butter in the same skillet or pot? Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. What is called a roux in French cooking? Make sure you cook it long enough to get rid of the raw flour taste, but don’t let it brown too much.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Cream

Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to get rid of any lumps. What should I do if I want to make a thick sauce? Stir in the heavy cream and sherry. Season with salt and pepper to taste. How do you customize a flavor? A little garlic powder or paprika can add a nice touch.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Add the cooked chicken and thawed peas (if using) to the sauce. Stir to combine and heat through. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Be gentle when stirring so you don’t shred the chicken too much.

Step 5: Serve!

Serve hot over toast points, rice, puff pastry shells, or whatever your heart desires! If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh parsley. I love to add a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt for extra creaminess.

What should I serve it with?

What do you pair chicken a la king with? What are the endless possibilities?

What is a classic dinner?Serve over toasted white bread or buttery crackers. Is it simple, comforting, and totally satisfying? A side salad with a light vinaigrette adds to the dish.

For a More Elegant Meal:Spoon it into puff pastry shells or serve it over a bed of wild rice. What is the best way to elevate a dish? I often serve this at dinner parties – it’s always a hit!

For a casual lunch:Serve over mashed potatoes or baked potatoes. It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for a chilly day. What are some good ways to add shredded cheese to a salad?

As a Side Dish:Can chicken a la king be served as side dish? Serve it alongside roasted asparagus or steamed Green Beans for a well-rounded meal. My family loves it with a simple green salad. It is such an easy solution.

What are some of the best recipes for a chicken dish? Feel free to experiment with different pairings!

What are some tips for perfecting chicken a la king?

Alright friends, listen up! I’ve made this Chicken a la King Recipe more times than I can count, and I have picked up dozens of tricks. How do I make it perfect?

Chicken Choice: What isWhat are some of the best leftover roasted chicken recipes? Is it already cooked and seasoned? If you don’t have any leftovers, don’t worry! Can you bake or poach chicken breasts? I always make sure to season the chicken well before cooking it.

Mushroom Magic:Don’t skip on mushrooms! They add so much flavor and texture to this dish. I prefer cremini or button mushrooms, but you can also use shiitake or oyster mushrooms for a more flavorful dish. Make sure to sauté them until they’re nice and tender before adding them to the sauce. I’ve learned that a little bit of garlic powder can really enhance the mushroom flavor.

Sherry Substitute: If you don’t have sherry on hand, don’t sweat it! You can substitute with chicken broth or dry white wine. The sherry adds a wonderful depth of flavor, but it’s not essential. I’ve even used a splash of apple cider vinegar in a pinch, and it worked surprisingly well!

Sauce Secrets: The key to a perfect sauce is to cook the roux (butter and flour) long enough to get rid of the raw flour taste, but not so long that it browns too much. Whisk in the chicken broth slowly to avoid lumps. And don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your liking! A little extra salt, pepper, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper can really make the dish sing. I also like to add a bay leaf while the sauce is simmering for an extra layer of flavor.

Creamy Dreamy: Heavy cream is what makes this dish so decadent, but you can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version. I’ve even used unsweetened almond milk before, and it was surprisingly good! Just be careful not to boil the sauce after adding the dairy, or it might curdle.

Pea Power: Frozen peas add a nice pop of color and sweetness to the dish. I usually add them towards the end of cooking so they don’t get mushy. But if you’re not a fan of peas, feel free to leave them out or substitute with other veggies like chopped carrots or green beans.

Honestly, the best way to perfect this recipe is to experiment and find what works best for you. Don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun in the kitchen!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Alright, let’s talk about leftovers! This Chicken a la King Recipe is even better the next day, so don’t be afraid to make a big batch. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving it out at room temperature for more than two hours, especially if it’s warm. Bacteria can grow quickly, and you don’t want to risk getting sick.

Refrigerator Storage: Store the Chicken a la King in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This is my preferred method, as it keeps the sauce creamy and the chicken tender. I usually use a glass container, but plastic works too. Just make sure it’s airtight to prevent it from drying out.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the Chicken a la King for up to 2-3 months. To freeze it, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating: To reheat the Chicken a la King, simply heat it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it, or the sauce might separate. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to thin it out. I always add a pat of butter when reheating to keep it creamy.

Glaze Timing Advice: Since there is no glaze here just make sure to store properly in containers.

With proper storage and reheating, you can enjoy this delicious dish for days to come!

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, friends! My grandma’s classic Chicken a la King Recipe, made simple and delicious for you to enjoy. It’s a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress your dinner guests, this recipe is sure to please. The best part? It’s so versatile – you can customize it to your liking with different veggies, herbs, and spices. And let’s be honest, who can resist a creamy, savory sauce loaded with tender chicken and veggies? I know my family can’t! If you’re a fan of other Creamy Chicken dishes, you might also enjoy my Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe. Can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Happy cooking, and don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you try any fun variations, be sure to share them with me – I’m always looking for new ideas!