There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a warm, creamy dish on a chilly evening, and Chicken a la King is a true standout in that category. I first stumbled upon this recipe when I was searching for a way to elevate a simple chicken dinner into something hearty and memorable. The moment the savory aroma of sautéed onions and celery filled my kitchen, I knew I had uncovered a gem that would become a staple in my home.
With its rich blend of flavorful ingredients like tender chicken, sweet peas, and a touch of paprika, this dish marries convenience and flavor in the most delightful way. And when you pair it with homemade biscuits, you create a comforting meal that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Chicken a la King promises to impress while being refreshingly easy to prepare. Let’s dive into this deliciously heartwarming dish that’s bound to become a favorite at your table!
Why is Chicken a la King a must-try?
Comforting, hearty flavors: This dish brings together tender chicken and vibrant veggies in a creamy sauce that feels like a warm hug.
Effortless preparation: You’ll love how quickly you can whip this up, making it ideal for busy nights.
Perfect pairing: Serve it alongside homemade biscuits to soak up every last drop of that delicious sauce.
Crowd-pleaser appeal: Easily impress your family or guests with this dish that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Versatile comfort food: Whether enjoyed on its own or served over rice, chicken a la king is adaptable for any palate.
Chicken a la King Ingredients
• Get ready to create a comforting masterpiece!
For the Chicken Mixture
• 1 stick butter, unsalted – Essential for adding richness and flavor to your sauce.
• 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced – Provides a sweet and savory base to your dish.
• 3/4 cup celery, diced – Adds a delightful crunch and fresh taste.
• 2 cups diced cooked chicken breast – Use leftover roast chicken for an easy and tasty option.
• 3/4 cup frozen peas & carrots, mixed – A colorful, sweet addition that rounds out the dish.
For the Flavor Base
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – Thickens your creamy sauce to perfection.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors and balances the richness.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a hint of warmth and spice.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Infuses the dish with a delicious garlicky aroma.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika – Gives a slight smokiness and vibrant color to the sauce.
For the Creamy Sauce
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth – The foundation of your creamy goodness; use homemade for an extra flavor boost.
• 1 cup half & half – Creates that luscious, creamy consistency that makes this dish irresistible.
Now that you have your essential Chicken a la King ingredients ready, it’s time to cook up some comfort food bliss!
How to Make Chicken a la King
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Preheat your oven to 350°F to get it ready for baking those delicious homemade biscuits. This step ensures they’re perfectly golden when you serve them alongside your creamy Chicken a la King.
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Sauté the butter in a large skillet over medium heat, adding diced onion and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened and aromatic, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Add the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, stirring well until blended. This is your flavor base, and it should smell delightful after about 1-2 minutes of cooking!
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Pour in the chicken broth gradually while stirring continuously to prevent clumps. Cook this mixture until it thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
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Fold in the half & half, along with the frozen peas and carrots. This is where your dish really becomes creamy and rich, so stir until everything is evenly combined.
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Stir in the diced cooked chicken and mix well to ensure every bite is coated in that savory sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes on low heat to warm the chicken through.
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Serve the Chicken a la King hot over your warm biscuits, making sure to ladle extra sauce on top for a tempting finish.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for an added burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chicken a la King?
Picture your dinner table brimming with warmth and delightful aromas, ready to complement a cozy serving of Chicken a la King.
- Fluffy Homemade Biscuits: They soak up the creamy sauce, creating the perfect combo for those rich flavors. A true match made in heaven!
- Steamed Green Beans: The crispness of these vibrant beans adds a lovely contrast to the creamy dish, making every bite exciting.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Buttery and velvety, they offer a comforting base that harmonizes beautifully with the savory Chicken a la King.
- Classic Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of greens and veggies balances the richness, offering a light and crisp element to your meal.
- Savory Cornbread: Slightly sweet with a lovely crumb texture, it pairs wonderfully with the saucy chicken, adding a Southern comfort vibe.
- Crisp White Wine: A chilled glass complements the dish’s creaminess and brightens the overall flavor with its crisp acidity.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Finish your meal on a sweet note—these warm, gooey treats offer a nostalgic touch that everyone loves!
- Lemon Sorbet: To cleanse the palate after the rich chicken dish, this refreshing dessert invigorates your senses and cleanses the taste buds.
By combining these side dishes and drinks with your Chicken a la King, you’re setting the stage for a truly memorable meal that will warm hearts and fill bellies!
Chicken a la King Serving Suggestions
Pair your Chicken a la King with delightful sides to create a memorable meal that warms the soul and satisfies the palate. Let’s explore some options that perfectly complement this creamy dish!
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Homemade Biscuits: Ideal for soaking up the rich sauce; they offer a buttery, flaky counterpart to the comforting chicken mixture.
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Steamed Rice: A classic choice that provides a neutral base, allowing the flavors of the Chicken a la King to shine.
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Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a drizzle of gravy make for an indulgent pairing that’s bound to please.
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Green Salad: A vibrant, crisp salad balances the richness of the dish and adds a refreshing crunch with every bite.
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Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted carrots, bell peppers, and squash not only adds nutrition but also complements the creamy elements beautifully.
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Crusty Bread: For those who enjoy dipping, serve a loaf of crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that luscious sauce.
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Garlic Bread: Adds an irresistible flavor twist and aroma, enhancing your dining experience while preventing any sauce from going to waste.
With these delightful side options, your Chicken a la King dinner will be a home-cooked masterpiece that your loved ones won’t soon forget!
Expert Tips for Chicken a la King
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Sauté Right: Always sauté your onions and celery until softened; this builds a solid flavor base and truly enhances the dish.
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Gradual Mixing: When adding chicken broth, do it gradually while stirring. This prevents lumps and ensures your creamy sauce is smooth and delicious.
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Use Leftovers: For a faster meal, use leftover chicken from a previous dinner. It adds great flavor and saves time; perfect for a quick Chicken a la King!
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Thickening Trick: If your sauce isn’t thickening as you’d like, let it simmer a bit longer while stirring. Avoid adding more flour, as it can alter the taste.
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Perfect Biscuits: Bake your biscuits right before serving for maximum freshness. This will keep them warm and fluffy, making them the ideal accompaniment to your Chicken a la King.
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. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Portion into airtight containers or freezer bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible before sealing.
Reheating: For best results, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Heat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to retain creaminess.
Avoid Safety Issues: Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming leftovers, and ensure heated food reaches 165°F to enjoy your Chicken a la King safely.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken a la King preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can make the creamy chicken mixture up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. To prevent any separation and maintain that rich texture, let it cool completely before storing. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the mixture on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. For the biscuits, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze it for up to 24 hours. Just drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet, bake, and you’ll have restaurant-quality results with minimal fuss!
Chicken a la King Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for Chicken a la King?
Absolutely! The best choice for Chicken a la King is cooked, diced chicken breast. You can use leftover roast chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time and enhance flavor. Look for chicken that is moist and tender; avoid any pieces that have dark spots or appear dried out.
How should I store leftover Chicken a la King?
Store leftover Chicken a la King in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool the dish to room temperature before sealing it to prevent condensation inside the container, which can make the sauce watery.
Can I freeze Chicken a la King?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken a la King! Allow it to cool completely, then scoop portions into airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. This way, it can be stored safely for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I do if the sauce is too thin?
If your sauce turned out too thin, don’t worry! Simply let it simmer on low heat for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally. If it still isn’t thickening, you can mix a teaspoon of flour with a little cold broth to create a slurry. Gradually stir that into the sauce and cook until it thickens, making sure to avoid clumps.
Is Chicken a la King safe for pets?
While Chicken a la King is delicious, it contains ingredients like onions and garlic, which can be harmful to pets. If you want to share a bit with your furry friend, set aside some plain, cooked chicken before adding the other ingredients. Always consult your vet for dietary advice regarding your pets.
What if I have a garlic allergy?
If you have a garlic allergy, you can simply omit garlic powder from the recipe. The dish will still be flavorful thanks to the other spices and ingredients. Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to enhance the depth of flavor, making it equally delightful!
Delicious Chicken a la King: Comfort Food Bliss at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F to get it ready for baking those delicious homemade biscuits.
- Sauté the butter in a large skillet over medium heat, adding diced onion and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened and aromatic, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, stirring well until blended. Cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth gradually while stirring continuously. Cook until it thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
- Fold in the half & half, along with the frozen peas and carrots. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
- Stir in the diced cooked chicken and mix well, cooking for an additional 2 minutes on low heat.
- Serve the Chicken a la King hot over warm biscuits, ladling extra sauce on top.