Ah, the nostalgia of a hearty Chicken a la King! This dish has always held a special place in my heart and on my dinner table. Growing up, my mom would make this creamy delight on chilly evenings, filling our home with an aroma that was warm and inviting. I can still picture us gathered around the table, laughter mingling with the rich scent of buttery goodness. For me, Chicken a la King is more than just a meal; it’s comfort food that evokes fond memories and brings family together.
What I adore about this recipe is its versatility. Whether you serve it over fluffy biscuits or a bed of warm rice, it’s bound to please everyone. And let’s be honest, who wouldn’t love a dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a creamy sauce all in one? Let’s dive in and whip up this classic – trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
What’s in Classic Chicken a la King?
- Cooked chicken: I always use diced rotisserie chicken for its convenience and flavor, but any leftover cooked chicken will work beautifully!
- Sliced mushrooms: Fresh is great, but canned mushrooms can save time if you’re in a rush.
- Frozen peas: These add a lovely pop of color and sweetness to the dish. No need to thaw them; they heat perfectly right in the skillet.
- Red bell pepper: This vibrant veggie brings crunch and a hint of sweetness. Feel free to swap for green bell pepper if that’s what’s in your fridge.
- Onion: I prefer to use yellow or white onion for their mild flavor, chopped finely.
- Butter: The base of our creamy sauce, it adds richness and flavor.
- All-purpose flour: This helps thicken our sauce for that luscious, creamy texture.
- Chicken broth: Use a good quality broth; my go-to is Swanson’s. It makes a world of difference in flavor!
- Heavy cream: This is the secret to the creamy consistency we all crave. Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Garlic powder: Easy to use and adds lovely depth without the hassle of fresh garlic.
- Salt and black pepper: For seasoning; adjust to your taste.
- Paprika: This gives a beautiful color to the sauce and a hint of smokiness.
- Fresh parsley: A delightful garnish that brightens the dish.
- Biscuits or rice: Serve this creamy concoction over these for the perfect hearty meal.
Is Classic Chicken a la King Good for You?
Well, that depends! Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, and peas provide vitamins and fiber. The problem lies with the heavy cream and butter, which pack a calorie punch. But hey, everything in moderation, right? If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using less cream or substituting it with half-and-half. Just be prepared for a slightly less decadent sauce. Another tip? Pairing this dish with a fresh salad can add some veggies to balance out your plate!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Biscuits or rice (for serving)
How to Make Classic Chicken a la King?
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and diced red bell pepper, cooking for another 4-5 minutes until the mushrooms are softened.
- Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well to coat the vegetables. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add the garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Bring to a simmer and let the sauce thicken for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy.
- Gently fold in the cooked chicken and frozen peas, cooking until the peas are heated through.
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Variations and Tips to Elevate the Flavor!
- For an extra flavor pop, add a splash of sherry or white wine into the sauce while it’s simmering.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some diced carrots or celery for added texture and nutrition.
- For those who love spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a kick.
Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting feast for friends, Classic Chicken a la King will surely delight! Try it out and let the creamy flavors whisk you away to goodness. If you give it a whirl, please come back and share your thoughts—I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Happy cooking!
