Create a Comforting Chicken a la King in Just 5 Simple Steps!

Chicken a la King is a classic American dish that has been delighting taste buds for generations. This creamy, comforting meal is a beloved staple, and for good reason. Featuring tender chicken, mushrooms, and a rich, velvety sauce, Chicken a la King is the ultimate in comfort food. But where did this dish originate, and how can you make it at home? Let’s dive in and explore the history and flavors of this timeless recipe.

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The History of Chicken a la King

The origins of Chicken a la King can be traced back to the late 19th century. The dish was first created by a chef named George Greenwald, who worked at the Brighton Beach Hotel in New York. Greenwald was tasked with creating a new chicken dish, and he came up with a recipe that combined sautéed chicken, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, served over toast points or rice.

The dish quickly gained popularity and started appearing on menus across the country. Over the years, Chicken a la King has evolved, with variations featuring different vegetables, seasonings, and serving suggestions. But the core elements – tender chicken, mushrooms, and a rich, creamy sauce – remain the same, making it a beloved classic that continues to delight home cooks and diners alike.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken a la King

To make the perfect Chicken a la King, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 8 tablespoons (½ cup) butter
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms or white button mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon dry mustard
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup half and half
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 7 ounces diced pimentos, well drained
• 3 cups cooked diced or shredded chicken
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create a delicious Chicken a la King at home:

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the mushrooms, onion, and green bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and dry mustard, cooking for 1 more minute.
2. Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to coat evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Add the Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and half and half. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Combine: Stir in the frozen peas, diced pimentos, and cooked chicken. Heat through until everything is warm.
5. Season: Taste the Chicken a la King and adjust the seasoning with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as desired.
6. Serve: Serve the creamy Chicken a la King hot over rice, noodles, or toast points. Enjoy this comforting dish!

Tips for Perfecting Chicken a la King

To ensure your Chicken a la King turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh or Leftover Chicken: You can use either fresh chicken or leftover cooked chicken in this recipe. Both work great, so feel free to use what you have on hand.
• Substitute Ingredients for Dietary Needs: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce. To make it dairy-free, replace the half and half with unsweetened almond or coconut milk.
• Achieve the Perfect Sauce Consistency: The key to a creamy, velvety Chicken a la King sauce is to cook the flour-butter mixture for a minute or two before adding the liquids. This helps remove the raw flour taste and ensures a smooth, thickened sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken a la King is a wonderfully versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Rice or Noodles: Serve the Chicken a la King over steamed rice or egg noodles to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Biscuits or Toast Points: For a heartier meal, spoon the Chicken a la King over warm biscuits or crispy toast points.
• Roasted Vegetables: Complement the dish with a side of roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
• Salad: A fresh green salad or a simple side salad is the perfect accompaniment to Chicken a la King.
• Wine Pairing: For a delightful meal, pair Chicken a la King with a crisp white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.

Storing and Reheating Chicken a la King

Leftover Chicken a la King can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply transfer the desired portion to a saucepan and heat over medium, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it occasionally to ensure even heating.

If you’d like to freeze Chicken a la King, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken a la King and where did it originate?

Chicken a la King is a classic American dish that was first created in the late 19th century by a chef named George Greenwald at the Brighton Beach Hotel in New York. The dish features sautéed chicken, mushrooms, and a creamy, velvety sauce, typically served over toast points or rice.

Can I make Chicken a la King with leftover chicken?

Yes, you can absolutely use leftover cooked chicken to make Chicken a la King. This is a great way to repurpose any extra chicken you have on hand. Simply dice or shred the cooked chicken and add it to the creamy sauce mixture.

What are the best side dishes to serve with Chicken a la King?

Chicken a la King pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as steamed rice, egg noodles, biscuits, or toast points. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts, or alongside a fresh green salad.

Is it possible to make a healthier version of Chicken a la King?

Yes, you can make a healthier version of Chicken a la King by making a few simple substitutions. Use low-fat or non-fat milk instead of half and half, and consider using a gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce. You can also increase the amount of vegetables, such as mushrooms and bell peppers, to add more nutrients to the dish.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Chicken Pot Pie
• Chicken Alfredo Sloppy Joes
• Crockpot Chicken Tortellini
• Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta

Conclusion

Chicken a la King is a classic American dish that has stood the test of time. With its tender chicken, mushrooms, and rich, creamy sauce, it’s no wonder this comforting meal continues to be a beloved favorite. Whether you’re serving it over rice, noodles, or toast points, Chicken a la King is sure to delight your taste buds and bring a touch of nostalgia to your dinner table. So why not give this timeless recipe a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself?

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

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