Chicken a la King is a classic dish that is popular in American cuisine. It is a creamy and flavorful chicken dish that is typically served over rice, pasta, or toast. The dish originated in the late 19th century and was named after a prominent New York City restaurant, the Keens Chop House. It quickly gained popularity and became a staple dish in many households.
The main ingredients in Chicken a la King are chicken, mushrooms, bell peppers, and a rich sauce made from butter, flour, chicken broth, and cream. Other optional ingredients can include onions, peas, and sherry. The dish is usually seasoned with salt, pepper, and paprika to add extra flavor. The chicken is typically cooked first, either by sautéing or boiling, and then the other ingredients are added to create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken a la King is a classic dish made with a creamy sauce and tender chunks of chicken. The key ingredients for this recipe include:
- Chicken: You will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this dish. It’s important to use high-quality chicken for the best flavor and texture.
- Mushrooms: Fresh button mushrooms are typically used in Chicken a la King. They add a delicious earthy flavor to the dish.
- Bell peppers: Both red and green bell peppers are traditionally used in this recipe. They add a vibrant color and a slightly sweet taste to balance out the richness of the sauce.
- Onion: A small onion is used to add flavor and aroma to the dish.
- Flour: All-purpose flour is used to make a roux, which helps thicken the sauce.
- Heavy cream: This adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
- Chicken broth: Chicken broth is used to enhance the flavor of the sauce and provide a liquid base.
- Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, paprika, and optionally, dried thyme or parsley are used to season the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken a la King
Here is a detailed guide on how to prepare Chicken a la King:
- Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients for the dish. You will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, mushrooms, bell peppers, onion, garlic, butter, flour, chicken broth, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Begin by cooking the chicken breasts. Heat a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook the chicken until it is browned and cooked through, usually for about 5 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and add the sliced mushrooms. Cook the mushrooms until they are tender, which usually takes about 5 minutes. Remove the mushrooms from the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, melt another tablespoon of butter and add the diced bell peppers and onion. Cook the mixture until they are softened, which generally takes about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetable mixture and stir well to combine. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the sauce has thickened, usually for about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Return the cooked chicken and mushrooms to the skillet. Stir to combine the ingredients and make sure they are coated in the sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together.
- Your Chicken a la King is now ready to be served. You can garnish it with chopped fresh parsley and serve it over rice, noodles, or toast points.
Tips from Professional Chefs on Cooking Chicken a la King
When it comes to preparing Chicken a la King, professional chefs have a wealth of knowledge to share. Here are some expert tips to help you create a delicious and authentic dish:
- Choose the right chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. These cuts of meat are tender and flavorful, making them perfect for Chicken a la King.
- Sauté the vegetables: Before adding the chicken and sauce, sauté the diced onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms in butter. This step enhances the flavors and adds richness to the dish.
- Balance the flavors: Chicken a la King is traditionally made with a creamy sauce consisting of chicken broth, heavy cream, and flour. To balance the flavors, consider adding a splash of white wine or lemon juice. Additionally, season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika for a hint of smokiness.
- Add the chicken last: When cooking the chicken, make sure to add it to the sauce at the end. This helps to prevent overcooking and ensures that the chicken remains tender and juicy.
- Serve it over rice or toast points: Chicken a la King is commonly served over steamed rice or toasted bread points. The starch provides a nice base and helps to soak up the creamy sauce.
By following these tips from professional chefs, you’ll be able to create a mouthwatering Chicken a la King that is sure to impress. Enjoy!
Reviews
The Chicken a la King recipe was a delightful surprise. As someone who enjoys cooking, I was intrigued by the combination of ingredients and the promise of a creamy and flavorful dish. I followed the recipe step by step and was impressed with how easy it was to prepare. The chicken was tender and juicy, and the sauce had a perfect balance of creaminess and tanginess.
One of the things I appreciated most about this recipe was its versatility. I decided to serve the Chicken a la King over rice, but it would also be delicious over pasta or even on its own. The dish had a comforting feel to it, making it a perfect option for a cozy dinner on a cold evening. I especially enjoyed the addition of mushrooms and bell peppers, which added a nice earthy and slightly sweet flavor to the overall dish.
I would highly recommend giving this recipe a try. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want to treat yourself to a delicious homemade meal, Chicken a la King is a fantastic choice. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flavorful vegetables is a winning combination that will leave you craving more.
I recently tried the recipe for Chicken a la King and it turned out absolutely delicious! The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flavorful vegetables was simply delightful. The dish had a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a true culinary masterpiece.
The recipe itself was quite easy to follow. I appreciated the clear instructions and the step-by-step guidance provided. The ingredients were also readily available and affordable, which made the whole cooking process even more enjoyable. It was a perfect dish to prepare for a special dinner or when you want to impress your guests with a gourmet meal.
One of the things I loved about this recipe was the versatility it offered. I had the option to serve Chicken a la King with a variety of sides, such as rice, pasta, or even crusty bread. This made it a perfect option for different occasions and preferences. Furthermore, the leftovers tasted equally amazing the next day, which is always a huge plus.
All in all, I highly recommend trying the recipe for Chicken a la King. It is a true treat for your taste buds and a dish that will leave you wanting more. Whether you are a skilled chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. Give it a try, and you won’t be disappointed!
I recently tried the Chicken a la King recipe and I must say, it exceeded my expectations. The dish was rich and creamy, with tender chunks of chicken simmered in a flavorful sauce. The combination of mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions added a nice touch of freshness and texture to the dish. The sauce was velvety smooth and had a perfect balance of flavors, not too salty or overpowering. It paired wonderfully with a side of fluffy rice.
The recipe itself was fairly easy to follow, with clear instructions and simple ingredients. I appreciated that it didn’t require any complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. I was able to whip up this delicious meal in under an hour, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner. I also liked that the recipe allowed for customization – I added a hint of garlic and a sprinkle of fresh herbs to enhance the flavors even more.
In terms of taste, the Chicken a la King was a winner. The chicken was juicy and succulent, perfectly complemented by the creamy sauce. The flavors melded together beautifully, creating a dish that was both comforting and satisfying. It was the ideal comfort food for a chilly evening, warming both the body and the soul.
Overall, I highly recommend trying out the Chicken a la King recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is sure to impress. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a real crowd-pleaser. I can’t wait to make it again!
I recently tried the recipe for Chicken a la King and I have to say, it was absolutely delicious! The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a medley of colorful vegetables made for a truly satisfying meal. The dish had just the right amount of flavors and the sauce was indulgently rich without being heavy. It was the perfect comfort food for a cozy weeknight dinner.
The recipe itself was straightforward and easy to follow, with clear instructions that helped me navigate through each step. I appreciated the tips provided, such as how to properly sauté the chicken to retain its juiciness. The addition of mushrooms and bell peppers added a nice depth of flavor and a pleasing crunch. The dish was also beautifully presented, with the vibrant colors of the vegetables contrasting against the creamy sauce.
I would highly recommend trying out the Chicken a la King recipe if you’re looking for a classic dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor. It’s a versatile recipe that can be served over rice, pasta, or even toasted bread. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a group, it’s sure to be a hit. Give it a try and taste the goodness for yourself!
The Chicken a la King recipe is truly amazing! I’m a food enthusiast and I love trying out new recipes, and this one definitely did not disappoint. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful mushrooms, and creamy sauce is simply heavenly.
The first step in preparing this dish is to cook the chicken until it’s nice and tender. I highly recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe as they cook quickly and evenly. Once the chicken is cooked, it’s time to sauté the mushrooms and onions in some butter. This step adds a delicious depth of flavor to the dish.
After the mushrooms and onions are cooked, you’ll want to add some flour and chicken broth to create a thick and creamy sauce. The sauce is what really sets this dish apart. It’s rich, velvety, and full of flavor. Once the sauce is ready, you can add the cooked chicken back into the pan along with some peas and pimentos. These ingredients add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
I served my Chicken a la King over a bed of fluffy white rice and it was a match made in heaven. The flavors of the sauce really complimented the rice, and the combination was absolutely delicious. This recipe is definitely going into my rotation of go-to dishes. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just looking to whip up a delicious meal for yourself, Chicken a la King is a winner!