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Chicken à la King is that go-to dish when you want something cozy and elegant at the same time creamy chicken dotted with mushrooms and sweet red peppers spooned over a bed of rice or pasta It is the kind of meal that makes a weeknight feel special and comes together surprisingly fast
I first made this for a friend who needed some extra comfort it instantly became a regular when my family is craving something the kids always call it the good creamy chicken
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: brings richness and allows flavors to meld go for high quality for better flavor
- White mushrooms: add an earthy savoriness look for ones that are firm and white with no sliminess
- Yellow onion: builds a sweet savory base fresher onions mean sweeter flavor
- Red bell pepper: offers sweetness and color choose one that feels heavy and has a glossy skin
- Chicken broth: creates the sauce a good low sodium broth is best so you can control the salt
- Salt: enhances every ingredient opt for kosher salt for even seasoning
- Garlic powder: gives mellow depth without overpowering
- Dried thyme: brings gentle herbal notes a little goes a long way
- Pepper: adds gentle heat use freshly cracked for best flavor
- Cooked chicken: is the hero of the dish any tender cooked chicken works leftovers or rotisserie makes it easy
- Frozen peas: lend bursts of green and a little sweetness add them straight from the freezer for best texture
- Heavy whipping cream: creates the luscious creamy sauce make sure it is cold for easier blending
- Parmesan cheese: finishes with savory umami freshly grated melts better and tastes best
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Melt the Butter and Sauté the Vegetables:
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat Add the diced onions sliced mushrooms and diced red bell pepper Let them cook for about three to five minutes stirring now and then The vegetables should become soft and the onions lightly golden which begins layering in flavor
- Make the Sauce and Add the Chicken:
- Pour in the chicken broth Sprinkle in salt garlic powder dried thyme and pepper Stir in the cubed cooked chicken and frozen peas now Give everything a good mix so the flavors marry and simmer on low with the lid on for ten minutes Stir every few minutes to ensure nothing sticks and everything heats through evenly
- Cream it Up and Finish:
- Reduce the heat to very low Gently stir in the heavy whipping cream and parmesan cheese Let the sauce cook for another two minutes stirring slowly until the sauce thickens a bit and the cheese is melted Be sure not to let it boil so the sauce stays silky Spoon over rice or pasta and serve hot
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The parmesan cheese is my favorite part I can remember my kids sneaking into the kitchen to steal a taste straight from the skillet sometimes we laugh and call this their cheese dinner
Storage Tips
Chicken à la King stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days If reheating on the stove add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce After freezing the sauce may separate slightly but a gentle reheat with extra cream can bring it back together
Ingredient Substitutions
No heavy cream Try half and half or evaporated milk for a lighter sauce Have leftover turkey instead of chicken Use that up Do not like mushrooms No problem just add extra bell pepper or even celery
Serving Suggestions
Chicken à la King is delicious served doused over warm rice fluffy mashed potatoes or crunchy toast For a lighter option I sometimes lay it over steamed veggies or even enjoy it straight from a bowl with a big spoon
The Story Behind the Dish
Chicken à la King actually dates back over a century and has been a popular American comfort classic found at many hotel dining rooms It was always considered a bit special maybe you remember it from family gatherings or potlucks I love that it brings nostalgia and warmth to the table every time
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use leftover chicken for this dish?
Yes, cooked leftover chicken works perfectly. Simply cube and add it as directed for a quick meal.
- → What can I serve alongside Chicken à la King?
It's delicious over pasta, rice, or buttered toast. A green vegetable or fresh salad makes a great side.
- → Can I substitute the heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter texture, though the sauce will be less rich.
- → How long does it keep in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Gently reheat to preserve the creamy sauce.
- → Is it possible to freeze Chicken à la King?
It freezes well for up to one month. Thaw overnight and reheat gently, stirring often.
- → Can I add other vegetables?
Feel free to add carrots, celery, or corn based on your preference for extra color and taste.