Chicken a la King

This Chicken a la King recipe is made from scratch, featuring a creamy mushroom sauce along with peas and pimentos for a burst of flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or a cozy weeknight meal. The unique blend of ingredients creates a comforting dish that pairs beautifully with rice, egg noodles, biscuits, or pastry!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and spices brings depth and richness to this dish that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, pasta, or even in a flaky pastry for an elegant presentation.
• Family-Friendly: This creamy Chicken a la King is sure to please picky eaters and satisfy even the heartiest appetites.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare ahead of time and reheat for an easy meal solution on busy days.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools at hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Ensures that the chicken and vegetables cook evenly without sticking, making clean-up easier.
• Sharp knife: A sharp edge allows for precise chopping of veggies and chicken, enhancing safety and efficiency in the kitchen.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your Chicken a la King.

Ingredients

This Chicken a la King recipe is made from scratch with a creamy mushroom sauce, peas, pimentos, and juicy chicken. Serve this with rice, egg noodles, biscuits, or pastry!

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 5 tablespoons butter
• 8 oz. baby bella mushrooms (can sub white button)
• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/3 cup flour
• 3 cups half and half
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (I use Franks hot sauce)
• 1 chicken bouillon cube

For the Chicken Mixture

• 1 ¼ lbs. boneless skinless chicken breast (see notes)
• ¾ cup peas (I use frozen)
• 4 oz. drained pimentos

Seasonings

• salt/pepper (to taste)
• ½ teaspoon EACH: dried basil, parsley, thyme, onion powder, mustard powder
• ¼ teaspoon ground sage
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper, paprika

Instructions:
1.
2.
3.

Servings: [‘6’, ‘6 people’]
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT45M
Total Time: PT60M
Nutrition Facts: Calories: 453 kcal

How to Make Chicken a la King

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through (about 7 minutes per side). Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant (about 2 minutes). Add mushrooms; cook until softened (about 5 minutes).

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Sprinkle flour over the cooked vegetables; stir well to combine. Gradually whisk in half-and-half and chicken broth until smooth. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, bouillon cube, peas, pimentos, herbs, salt/pepper to taste. Cook until thickened (about 5 minutes).

Step 4: Combine & Serve

Dice cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces; add to the sauce mixture. Stir gently to coat chicken well before serving over your choice of rice or pasta.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken a la King!

How to Serve Chicken a la King

Chicken a la King is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Over Rice

• Serve the creamy Chicken a la King over fluffy white or brown rice for a comforting meal that soaks up the delicious sauce.

With Egg Noodles

• Pair with tender egg noodles for a classic combination. The noodles capture the rich flavors of the sauce beautifully.

Inside Biscuits

• For a hearty treat, spoon the Chicken a la King into warm, flaky biscuits. This adds a delightful texture and flavor contrast.

In Puff Pastry Cups

• Use crispy puff pastry cups to create an elegant presentation. These are perfect for appetizers or as part of a fancy brunch.

On Toast

• Serve it on thick slices of toasted bread for an easy yet satisfying open-faced sandwich option.

With Vegetables

• Accompany with steamed or roasted vegetables for added nutrition and color on your plate.

How to Perfect Chicken a la King

To make your Chicken a la King even better, follow these simple tips for an outstanding dish every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mushrooms, chicken, and herbs enhance flavor and texture.
• Cook chicken thoroughly: Ensure the chicken is cooked until no longer pink in the center for safety and best results.
• Customize seasonings: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences for a personalized touch.
• Thicken sauce properly: Mix flour with half and half before adding it to prevent lumps in your creamy sauce.
• Serve immediately: Enjoy your Chicken a la King right after cooking for the best texture and flavor.
• Add more veggies: Incorporate bell peppers, carrots, or corn for extra nutrition and color.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken a la King

Pairing side dishes with Chicken a la King can complete your meal perfectly. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread
   A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your dish.

2. Steamed Broccoli
   Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients, offering a nice contrast to the creamy sauce.

3. Mixed Green Salad
   A light salad with vinaigrette provides crispness and balances the richness of Chicken a la King.

4. Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes are an excellent base that complements the dish’s flavors wonderfully.

5. Rice Pilaf
   Flavored rice pilaf can add another layer of taste while providing additional texture to your meal.

6. Roasted Asparagus
   Roasted asparagus brings out earthy flavors while being both healthy and visually appealing on the plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Cooking the chicken improperly. Ensure the chicken is cooked through but not dry. Use a meat thermometer for best results.
• Skipping the seasoning. Failing to season your dish properly can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
• Using the wrong flour type. Make sure to use all-purpose flour, as other types may not thicken the sauce properly.
• Ignoring the sauce consistency. If your sauce is too thick, add more chicken broth or half and half gradually until desired thickness is achieved.
• Forgetting to stir frequently. Stirring helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking of all ingredients in the sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken a la King in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing Chicken a la King

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Portion into smaller containers for easier thawing.

Reheating Chicken a la King

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken a la King?
Chicken a la King is a creamy dish featuring chicken cooked with vegetables like mushrooms and peas, typically served over rice or pasta.

How can I customize my Chicken a la King?
You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or substitute the chicken with turkey for variation.

Is Chicken a la King suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it stores well and can be made ahead of time for quick meals throughout the week.

Can I make Chicken a la King dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute half and half with coconut milk or any plant-based cream alternative.

What can I serve with Chicken a la King?
It’s delicious over rice, egg noodles, or served alongside biscuits and pastry.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken a la King recipe shines with its creamy mushroom sauce and vibrant vegetables. It’s versatile enough to adapt based on your preferences, whether you choose rice, noodles, or biscuits as your base. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or proteins for a unique twist!