Chicken a la King is a classic comfort food dish that evokes memories of hearty, creamy meals shared with loved ones. This recipe transforms leftover chicken into a rich, flavorful dish perfect for any night of the week. Whether served over rice, noodles, or in puff pastry shells, Chicken a la King is sure to satisfy.
This post will guide you through the process of making Chicken a la King, providing tips, variations, and storage suggestions to make the most of this comforting meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Serve over rice, noodles, or in pastry shells.
- Family-Friendly: Appeals to both kids and adults.
- Comforting: Creamy sauce with tender chicken and vegetables.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dry mustard
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup pimientos, diced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Cooked rice, noodles, or pastry shells, for serving
Optional: Chopped parsley for garnish
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Directions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Melt Butter and Saute Vegetables: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until they start to brown. Add onion and green pepper, cooking until softened.
- Add Garlic and Flour: Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in garlic and dry mustard. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes until flour is well incorporated.
- Make the Sauce: Gradually pour in chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer until the mixture thickens, stirring occasionally.
- Combine Chicken and Vegetables: Stir in cooked chicken, peas, and pimientos. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Cream: Pour in heavy cream, stirring gently until everything is well combined and heated through. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Serve hot over cooked rice, noodles, toast, biscuits, or in puff pastry shells. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Tips and Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or more vegetables.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a spicy version.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch instead of flour.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Chicken a la King in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore consistency if needed.
Food and Drink Pairings
- Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.
- Beverages: Pair with white wine, sparkling water, or lemonade.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I freeze Chicken a la King? Yes, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- What can I substitute for pimientos? Roasted red peppers or diced tomatoes can be used instead.
Call to Action
Try this comforting Chicken a la King recipe for your next family dinner. It’s quick, easy, and sure to become a favorite!