Chicken a la King Recipe

There is something truly comforting about the creamy, flavorful classic that is Chicken a la King Recipe. This beloved dish brings together tender chicken, savory mushrooms, sweet pimentos, and luscious sauce in a way that feels both indulgent and homey. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or wanting to impress guests with a timeless recipe, this Chicken a la King Recipe delivers rich taste and satisfying textures that never disappoint.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may be simple and straightforward, but each one plays a vital role in transforming the dish into the creamy delight that is Chicken a la King Recipe. From the fragrant garlic to the silky half & half, every element contributes to flavor, texture, or color in a way that makes this dish unforgettable.

• Olive oil: Essential for searing the chicken to golden perfection while adding subtle richness.
• Boneless skinless chicken breast: The main protein that remains juicy and tender throughout cooking.
• Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance and balance all the flavors beautifully.
• Dry sherry wine: Adds depth and a slight sweetness as it deglazes the pan and lifts up those browned bits.
• Unsalted butter: Creates a luscious base for the roux, adding creaminess to the sauce.
• Baby bella mushrooms: Earthy and tender, they lend a meaty texture and savory notes.
• Yellow onion: Provides sweetness and body, softening into the sauce for rich flavor.
• Garlic cloves: Imparts warmth and aroma that intensify the overall taste.
• All-purpose flour: Used to thicken the sauce, ensuring it coats the chicken perfectly.
• Half & half: Adds creamy silkiness without being too heavy.
• Chicken broth: Brings savory depth and balances the richness of the cream.
• Paprika: A mild spice that brightens and adds subtle warmth.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses gentle herbal notes throughout.
• Frozen peas: Bursts of sweetness and vibrant color that brighten the dish.
• Jarred pimentos: Adds a pop of tangy, sweet flavor as well as gorgeous red accents.

How to Make Chicken a la King Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning both sides of your chicken breasts with half of the salt and black pepper. In a large pot or dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes per side until cooked through and reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This initial sear locks in juices and forms a savory crust that’s essential for that classic flavor.

Step 2: Rest and Slice Chicken

Remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes. This step helps maintain juiciness by allowing the meat fibers to relax. After resting, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces that will soak up the delicious sauce in the upcoming steps.

Step 3: Deglaze with Sherry Wine

Pour the dry sherry wine into the same pot. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up every browned, flavor-packed bit stuck to the bottom of the pan. This process, called deglazing, is the secret to infusing the dish with deep, complex flavors that elevate the sauce beautifully.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the sliced baby bella mushrooms, diced yellow onion, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms soften and the onions become translucent. This step creates the savory vegetable foundation for the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Make the Roux

Stir in the unsalted butter until fully melted. Then sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the veggies, mixing it in to form a roux. Cooking the roux for 1 to 2 minutes removes any raw flour taste, and it also sets the stage for a wonderfully thick and velvety sauce.

Step 6: Add Cream and Broth

Slowly pour in the half & half while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Next, add the chicken broth and combine everything thoroughly. Sprinkle in the remaining salt and black pepper, along with paprika and Italian seasoning. These spices introduce warmth and herbal complexity that make this Chicken a la King Recipe truly memorable.

Step 7: Simmer and Combine Chicken

Bring your sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. In about 5 minutes, it will thicken to a rich consistency. Once thickened, return the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot and let everything simmer, uncovered, for about 10 minutes so the flavors can meld beautifully.

Step 8: Final Touches

Stir in the frozen peas and jarred pimentos, simmering for another 5 to 10 minutes. This warms the peas through and lets the red pimentos add both color and a sweet tang. Turn off the heat and prepare for the best part – serving up your beautiful Chicken a la King Recipe.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Serve this luscious dish warm over rice, tender egg noodles, or alongside freshly baked biscuits. Its creamy sauce and tender chicken promise a comforting experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

How to Serve Chicken a la King Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives add a burst of color and freshness that perfectly contrast the creamy sauce. A light sprinkle of paprika on top not only enhances the presentation but infuses a subtle smoky aroma that’s irresistible.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like buttery egg noodles, fluffy white rice, or warm biscuits that soak up every bit of the sauce. For a lighter touch, steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad provide lovely texture contrasts without overpowering the main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Try spooning your Chicken a la King Recipe over puff pastry shells for an elegant individual serving, or pile it atop baked potatoes for a hearty twist. You can also use it as a filling for crepes or savory turnovers, adding versatility and fun to your dining table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Chicken a la King Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This dish reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy those rich flavors again without losing any of the creamy goodness.

Freezing

To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that peas and pimentos might lose a bit of texture when frozen, but the sauce and chicken will remain delicious.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Adding a splash of chicken broth or half & half while reheating can help restore the sauce’s creamy texture and prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use different types of mushrooms for this Chicken a la King Recipe?

Absolutely! While baby bella mushrooms add earthiness and texture, button mushrooms or cremini also work beautifully. Feel free to mix them up to suit your taste or what you have available.

Is dry sherry necessary? Can I substitute it?

Dry sherry adds a unique depth, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can substitute with a dry white wine, chicken broth, or even a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity. The flavor profile may vary slightly but will still be delicious.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, by substituting the butter with a dairy-free alternative and using coconut milk or your favorite plant-based cream instead of half & half, you can enjoy a creamy, dairy-free version of this Chicken a la King Recipe.

What can I serve instead of rice or noodles?

Mashed potatoes, cauliflower rice, or even crusty bread make great alternatives for soaking up the sauce. The key is to choose something that will hold the creamy texture and complement the dish.

How can I make this Chicken a la King Recipe more flavorful?

Try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra zing. Fresh herbs like thyme or tarragon can also amplify the herbal notes and brighten the overall flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a Chicken a la King Recipe that feels both nostalgic and fresh every time you make it. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and colorful vegetables meld into a dish that’s perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe—you might just find a new favorite that warms your heart and your table.

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