Imagine walking into your kitchen as the enticing aroma of garlic and mushrooms mingles with the rich scent of savory chicken wafting through the air. That moment, where the cozy atmosphere envelops you, is the perfect backdrop for crafting a comforting dish: Chicken a la King. This classic recipe took a delightful twist in my kitchen when I decided to elevate a simple chicken dinner into something truly special.
With its creamy mushroom sauce and tender bites of chicken, it’s no surprise that Chicken a la King is a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or hosting friends for dinner. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to whip up even on the busiest of weekdays. The ingredients come together seamlessly, ensuring you’re left with a meal that feels indulgent without the fuss. So, put away that fast food takeout menu and gather your loved ones around the table, because this dish promises to turn a mundane meal into a cherished moment. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
Why Choose Chicken a la King for Dinner?
Comforting goodness: This dish wraps you in warmth with its rich, creamy sauce.
Simplicity: You’ll love how easily it comes together—great for a weeknight meal.
Flavor-packed: A delightful blend of chicken, mushrooms, and spices creates a mouthwatering experience.
Versatile serving options: Enjoy it over pasta, rice, or even biscuits for a personal twist.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gathering friends—everyone will be asking for seconds!
Add a refreshing salad on the side for a complete meal.
Essential Chicken a la King Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless skinless chicken breast – a lean protein that ensures tender bites throughout the dish.
• Salt – enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.
• Pepper – adds a subtle kick to the overall taste.
For the Sauce
• Olive oil – used for frying, it adds a hint of richness.
• Dry white wine – brings depth of flavor; feel free to substitute with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option.
• Butter – the key to a creamy, luscious sauce.
• Flour – used to thicken the sauce beautifully.
• Half and half – creates that dreamy, creamy texture; you can replace it with heavy cream for extra indulgence.
• Chicken broth – adds essential moisture and savory notes.
• Worcestershire sauce – a splash of umami that deepens the flavor profile.
• Hot sauce – just a touch elevates the flavor without overwhelming the dish.
• Chicken bouillon cube – intensifies the chicken flavor and enhances the broth.
For the Vegetables
• Baby bella mushrooms – their rich flavor pairs perfectly with chicken; portobello works well as a substitute.
• Yellow onion – for sweetness and depth in the sauce.
• Garlic – a must for that delectable aroma and flavor.
• Peas – add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
• Drained pimentos – provides a delightful sweetness.
For Seasoning
• Dried basil, parsley, thyme – aromatic herbs that round out the sauce.
• Onion powder, mustard powder – enhance the savory notes.
• Ground sage, pepper, paprika – adds warm earthiness and a hint of spice.
This Chicken a la King recipe is a delightful way to transform a simple dinner into an unforgettable feast. Get ready to impress your family and friends!
How to Make Chicken a la King
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Combine ingredients: In a large measuring cup, whisk together the half and half, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and seasonings. Set this mixture aside for later use; it will become your creamy sauce.
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Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season it generously with salt and pepper. In a 4 ½-quart soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
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Brown the chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the pot, cooking for about 3 minutes on each side until nicely browned. Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before cutting it into bite-sized pieces.
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Sauté the vegetables: Pour the white wine into the pot and use a spatula to deglaze the bottom, scraping up any tasty bits. Stir in the mushrooms, onions, and minced garlic, cooking for 5-6 minutes until softened and fragrant.
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Make the roux: Add the butter and flour to the pot, stirring to combine. Cook this mixture for 2 minutes, stirring continuously, to form a roux that will thicken your sauce beautifully.
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Pour in the cream mixture: Reduce the heat to medium-low and gradually add the half and half mixture in small splashes, stirring non-stop to create a smooth sauce.
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Add bouillon and chicken: Toss in the chicken bouillon cube and increase the heat back to medium-high. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower to a simmer and stir in the cut chicken pieces.
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Simmer to perfection: Allow the dish to simmer uncovered for 10 minutes. Then add the peas and drained pimentos, simmering uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes until your sauce reaches the desired consistency.
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Serve with love: Remove from heat and serve your delectable Chicken a la King over egg noodles, rice, pasta, biscuits, or flaky pastry.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Chicken a la King is a fantastic dish for meal prep, allowing you to create a comforting homemade meal even on the busiest of weeknights. To prep ahead, you can cook and store the chicken in the creamy mushroom sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. For the best flavor and texture, keep the sauce and chicken separate from any served starches like pasta or rice until ready to enjoy. When you’re prepared to serve, gently reheat the chicken and sauce on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, and serve it over freshly cooked noodles for that restaurant-quality experience. You’ll be amazed at how this classic Chicken a la King tastes just as delicious, saving you precious time while bringing smiles to the dinner table!
What to Serve with Chicken a la King?
As you prepare this creamy delight, think about the perfect accompaniments that will elevate your meal to new heights.
- Fluffy Rice: The mild flavor and soft texture of rice soak up all that rich sauce beautifully.
- Buttery Egg Noodles: These tender noodles add a classic touch, creating a comforting base for the Chicken a la King.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread offers a crunchy contrast, perfect for scraping up every last bit of sauce.
- Steamed Green Beans: Their crispness and vibrant color add freshness, balancing out the richness of the dish.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy romaine provide a refreshing counterpoint to the savory chicken.
- Cheesy Biscuits: Flaky and cheesy, these biscuits can be used to scoop up your delicious Chicken a la King.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add beautifully caramelized vegetables for a touch of earthiness, bringing out the dish’s flavors.
- Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine pairs perfectly with the richness of the sauce, enhancing the dining experience.
- Chocolate Mousse: Conclude the meal with a light and airy chocolate mousse, adding a sweet finish to a savory dinner.
- Lemonade: A refreshing glass of homemade lemonade provides a zesty spark that refreshes the palate between bites.
Variation & Substitutions for Chicken a la King
Feel free to make this dish your own with these innovative twists and swaps that can elevate your Chicken a la King experience!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute half and half with coconut cream and use vegan butter for a creamy, plant-based alternative.
This will give you a delightful richness without any dairy, perfect for those with lactose intolerance. -
Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch to thicken the sauce while keeping it gluten-free.
This option maintains the dish’s creamy texture without the gluten, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals. -
Protein Boost: Swap out chicken for turkey or tofu for a delicious variation that still delivers protein.
Both options will soak up the savory sauce beautifully, providing alternative flavors while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying. -
Mushroom Medley: Mix baby bella mushrooms with shiitake or portobello for a deeper, more varied mushroom flavor.
Using a medley introduces a fascinating taste profile, enhancing the earthy, savory notes of this classic dish. -
Fire it Up: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or cayenne pepper for a little heat to liven up your meal.
A dash of spice can transform this comforting dish into a lively dinner with an exhilarating kick. -
Veggie Power: Include chopped bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for an added burst of color and nutrition.
Not only will this boost the flavor, but it will also make your Chicken a la King even more nutritious and visually appealing. -
Herb-Lover’s Dream: Play with fresh herbs like thyme or cilantro in place of dried versions for a fresher, brighter taste.
Fresh herbs bring a vibrant flair that can uplift the other flavors beautifully, making each bite an experience. -
Pasta Lovers’ Delight: Serve over a bed of lasagna noodles or ravioli for a delightful twist on the traditional serving method.
Transform this dish into a comforting pasta feast; it’s a fun way to enjoy Chicken a la King that everyone will adore!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken a la King
Fridge: Store leftover Chicken a la King in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, and label it clearly with the date.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of chicken broth for creaminess if needed.
Tips for the Best Chicken a la King
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Perfectly Browned Chicken: Make sure your chicken is patted dry and seasoned well; this allows for a beautiful brown crust and enhances flavor.
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Deglaze Carefully: When adding wine to the pot, scrape up the browned bits gently to incorporate all those wonderful flavors into your Chicken a la King.
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Roux Consistency: Stir the butter and flour for a full 2 minutes to create a proper roux that thickens the sauce. Avoid rushing this step to ensure smoothness.
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Slow Sauce Addition: Add the half and half mixture in small splashes, stirring continuously to prevent any lumps and achieve that creamy texture.
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Simmer for Flavor: Allow your Chicken a la King to simmer uncovered for the full time to deepen the flavors; don’t skip this crucial step!
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Serve with Sides: Elevate your meal by serving over a variety of options like egg noodles, rice, or biscuits, making it a versatile hit at the dinner table.
Chicken a la King Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select mushrooms for Chicken a la King?
Absolutely! When choosing mushrooms, look for firm, dry baby bella mushrooms with a smooth surface and no dark spots. The fresher they are, the better their flavor will be in your Chicken a la King. If baby bellas aren’t available, portobello mushrooms make a fantastic substitute due to their robust taste!
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
You can store leftover Chicken a la King in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to keep it fresh. If you know you won’t eat it in that time, consider freezing for later enjoyment!
Can I freeze Chicken a la King? How do I do it?
Very! To freeze, allow your Chicken a la King to cool completely first. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or half and half for creaminess if needed.
What can I do if my Chicken a la King is too thick?
If you find your Chicken a la King is thicker than desired, simply stir in a bit of chicken broth or half and half until you reach the desired consistency. Gradually add until it’s just right, making sure to stir continuously to maintain a creamy texture.
Are there any common allergens in Chicken a la King I should be aware of?
The main allergens present in Chicken a la King include dairy (butter, half and half) and gluten (flour). For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your broth is also gluten-free. If you or your loved ones have dairy allergies, you can try alternative milk options or dairy-free cream substitutes.
Can I serve Chicken a la King to my pets?
While the ingredients are primarily safe, it’s best to keep Chicken a la King away from pets. The sauce can contain seasonings and garlic that aren’t ideal for them. Stick to plain, boiled chicken for a safe treat for your furry friends.
Delicious Chicken a la King That Beats Takeout Every Time
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large measuring cup, whisk together the half and half, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and seasonings. Set aside.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the pot, cooking for about 3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Pour the white wine into the pot to deglaze, scraping up tasty bits. Stir in mushrooms, onions, and minced garlic; cook for 5-6 minutes until softened.
- Add butter and flour, stirring to combine. Cook for 2 minutes to form a roux.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and gradually add the cream mixture, stirring constantly.
- Add the chicken bouillon cube and bring to a boil, then lower to a simmer and stir in cut chicken pieces.
- Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes. Add peas and pimentos, simmering for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and serve over egg noodles, rice, pasta, or biscuits.