Chicken a la King is a classic comfort food, and this slow cooker version makes it incredibly easy to prepare. Forget hours of stovetop simmering – your crockpot does the work for you, resulting in a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. This recipe focuses on simplicity and achieving that perfect balance of creamy sauce and tender chicken. We'll even address some frequently asked questions to ensure your Chicken a la King is a resounding success.
What is Chicken a la King?
Chicken a la King is a creamy chicken dish typically made with cooked chicken, a creamy sauce (often featuring mushrooms and cream or a cream-based soup), and vegetables like peppers and onions. Its origins are somewhat debated, but it’s generally considered an American dish that gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This crockpot adaptation maintains the classic flavors while streamlining the process.
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken a la King
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 10.75 oz condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup dry sherry (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or egg noodles (for serving)
How to Make Crockpot Chicken a la King
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Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended): While not strictly necessary, searing the chicken breasts before adding them to the crockpot adds a lovely depth of flavor. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned. This step isn't essential, but it significantly enhances the overall taste.
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Combine Ingredients: Place the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and mushrooms in the bottom of your slow cooker. Top with the seared (or unseared) chicken breasts.
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Create the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, chicken broth, sherry (if using), Dijon mustard, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
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Slow Cook: Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
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Shred and Stir: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine it with the sauce and vegetables.
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Serve: Serve your Chicken a la King hot over cooked rice, egg noodles, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of elegance.
How Long to Cook Chicken a la King in a Crockpot?
Cooking time will vary depending on your slow cooker and whether you're using the low or high setting. As a general guideline:
- Low: 6-8 hours
- High: 3-4 hours
Always ensure the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Can I Make Chicken a la King Ahead of Time?
Yes! Chicken a la King is perfect for make-ahead meals. You can prepare it the day before and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The flavors will actually meld and deepen overnight, making it even more delicious.
What to Serve with Chicken a la King?
Chicken a la King is incredibly versatile. It pairs well with:
- Rice: White rice, brown rice, or even wild rice are all excellent choices.
- Egg Noodles: These offer a classic pairing, soaking up the delicious creamy sauce.
- Mashed Potatoes: A creamy comfort food with another creamy comfort food – a match made in heaven!
- Biscuits: Serve alongside fluffy buttermilk biscuits for dipping.
- Crust of Bread: A simple and easy side dish to complement the creamy sauce.
Variations of Crockpot Chicken a la King
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or add-ins to customize your Chicken a la King:
- Add some peas or carrots: These will add color, sweetness, and more nutrients.
- Use different types of mushrooms: Shiitake or oyster mushrooms would add an earthy flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
- Make it cheesy: Stir in some shredded cheddar or Gruyere cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
This Crockpot Chicken a la King recipe provides a delicious and convenient way to enjoy this classic dish. Enjoy!
