Chicken a la King is a timeless dish, a creamy and comforting classic that's perfect for a cozy night in or a sophisticated dinner party. This recipe delivers a rich, flavorful sauce coating tender chicken, all served atop fluffy rice or biscuits. Let's dive into the details of perfecting this beloved dish.
What is Chicken a la King?
Chicken a la King is a creamy chicken dish featuring tender pieces of chicken in a rich, flavorful sauce. The sauce typically includes a creamy base (often a combination of milk, cream, or a roux), mushrooms, and often peppers. Variations exist, with some recipes incorporating other vegetables like peas or asparagus. The "King" in the name isn't a reference to royalty, but rather to the dish's luxurious and decadent nature.
What are the Main Ingredients in Chicken a la King?
The foundation of a great Chicken a la King lies in its core ingredients:
- Chicken: Use cooked chicken – leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect, saving time and effort! Otherwise, you can poach or roast chicken breasts until fully cooked and then shred or cube them.
- Sauce: A creamy sauce is key. This is often made with a roux (butter and flour), thickened with cream or milk. Some recipes incorporate sherry or white wine for added depth.
- Mushrooms: These add an earthy, savory flavor and texture. Cremini or button mushrooms are common choices.
- Vegetables: While mushrooms are almost always included, other vegetables are optional but often add delightful flavor and texture. Common additions include pimentos (sweet red peppers), peas, or asparagus.
How to Make Chicken a la King from Scratch
This recipe focuses on creating a truly delicious Chicken a la King from scratch, offering a balance of creamy richness and fresh vegetable flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup sliced cremini mushrooms
- 1/2 cup chopped pimentos (sweet red peppers)
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a touch of smokiness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Make the Roux: Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and bubbly (a light golden color). This creates the base of your creamy sauce.
- Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently.
- Incorporate Cream & Milk: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and milk. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Vegetables & Chicken: Add the sliced mushrooms and pimentos to the sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender. Stir in the shredded chicken.
- Season: Season the Chicken a la King with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Serve your Chicken a la King hot, over fluffy rice, egg noodles, toast points, or biscuits. Garnish with fresh parsley.
What to Serve with Chicken a la King?
The versatility of Chicken a la King makes it a perfect pairing with various sides:
- Rice: Fluffy white rice is a classic accompaniment, providing a neutral base for the rich sauce.
- Egg Noodles: These offer a comforting, slightly chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Biscuits: Flaky, buttery biscuits are a delightful way to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Toast Points: Crusty bread, cut into small triangles, is another excellent option for dipping and enjoying the creamy goodness.
- Asparagus: Steamed or roasted asparagus adds a fresh, green counterpoint to the richness of the dish.
Can You Make Chicken a la King Ahead of Time?
Yes! Chicken a la King can be made ahead of time and reheated. Make it a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Avoid overcooking, as this can cause the sauce to separate.
Is Chicken a la King Healthy?
While Chicken a la King is a delicious comfort food, it's important to be mindful of its calorie and fat content. The richness of the cream and butter contributes significantly to the dish's overall calorie count. To make it slightly healthier, you can use less heavy cream and incorporate more vegetables. Using Greek yogurt instead of some of the cream can also reduce the fat content while maintaining creaminess.
What are Some Variations of Chicken a la King?
There are countless variations of this classic dish, each adding its own unique twist:
- Seafood a la King: Substitute cooked crab, shrimp, or lobster for the chicken.
- Vegetable a la King: Omit the chicken and increase the amount of vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Spicy Chicken a la King: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
Enjoy experimenting with this versatile recipe and creating your own delicious version of Chicken a la King! Remember to adjust seasonings to your preference for the perfect creamy, comforting meal.
