Prepare to dazzle your taste buds with our Easy Chicken à la King recipe – a dish that effortlessly marries elegance and simplicity. This classic comfort food, with its velvety cream sauce, tender chicken, and colorful vegetables, is a regal feast that can be whipped up in mere minutes. Join us on a culinary journey as we unlock the secrets behind creating this indulgent dish that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Chicken à la King:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (a mix of colors)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup carrots, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup pimientos, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
For Serving:
- Cooked rice, pasta, or toast points
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Cream Sauce
- In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour, salt, and black pepper, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Seasonings
- Stir in the mushrooms, bell peppers, frozen peas, carrots, and pimientos.
- Season with dried thyme, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Step 3: Incorporate Shredded Chicken
- Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, stirring gently to combine.
- Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the chicken to heat through and absorb the flavors.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
- Spoon the Chicken à la King over cooked rice, pasta, or toast points.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Seafood Sensation: Add shrimp or lobster to elevate the dish into a seafood medley.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with your favorite herbs like tarragon or chives for an aromatic twist.
- Cheese Lover’s Delight: Stir in a cup of shredded cheese at the end for a creamy, cheesy version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
A: Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or roasted chicken is perfect for this recipe.
Q: What’s the best way to store Chicken à la King?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Q: Can I freeze Chicken à la King?
A: While the cream sauce may separate upon thawing, you can freeze the chicken and vegetable mixture and prepare a fresh batch of sauce when reheating.
Q: Is it possible to make Chicken à la King without mushrooms?
A: Certainly! Feel free to omit the mushrooms or replace them with another vegetable of your choice.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Keto Option:
For a keto-friendly version, substitute the flour with almond flour or coconut flour to make a low-carb roux. Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Low-Carb Version:
Opt for a low-carb thickener like xanthan gum instead of flour. Reduce the amount of carrots and peas or replace them with lower-carb vegetables like broccoli or spinach.
In conclusion, Easy Chicken à la King is a testament to the fact that luxurious meals don’t have to be complicated. This dish effortlessly combines a rich cream sauce with the simplicity of shredded chicken and vibrant vegetables, resulting in a harmonious and satisfying experience. Whether spooned over a bed of rice, pasta, or served with crispy toast points, each bite is a journey through a world of flavors. So, embrace the regality of Chicken à la King and revel in the joy of creating a gourmet meal with minimal effort. It’s time to savor the elegance of simplicity on your plate!
