Chicken Ala King Recipe

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Introduction

Chicken la King is a classic American dish, beloved for its creamy, savory sauce and tender chicken. Its origins are debated, with claims tracing back to late 19th-century hotels in both New York City and Philadelphia. Regardless of its precise beginnings, Chicken la King has become a staple, often served at banquets, luncheons, and family dinners. The dishs popularity stems from its rich flavor, satisfying texture, and adaptability, making it a perfect choice for both formal occasions and cozy weeknight meals. This recipe provides a guide to creating a delicious and authentic Chicken la King experience at home.

Ingredients

The key to a great Chicken la King lies in the quality of its ingredients. Here’s what is needed:

• Chicken: 1.5 lbs cooked chicken, diced (rotisserie chicken, poached chicken, or leftover roasted chicken works well)
• Butter: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• All-Purpose Flour: 4 tablespoons
• Chicken Broth: 2 cups (low sodium preferred)
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup
• Dry Sherry: 1/4 cup (optional, but highly recommended for flavor depth)
• Mushrooms: 8 oz sliced mushrooms (cremini or button mushrooms are excellent choices)
• Green Bell Pepper: 1/2 cup diced
• Red Bell Pepper: 1/2 cup diced
• Pimentos: 1/4 cup chopped (jarred pimentos are fine)
• Frozen Peas: 1/2 cup
• Salt and Pepper: To taste
• Optional Garnishes: Fresh parsley, paprika

Substitutions: For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Vegetable broth can replace chicken broth. If sherry is unavailable, a splash of white wine or lemon juice can add brightness.

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation ensures a smooth and flavorful final dish. Start by dicing the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even distribution throughout the sauce. Next, prepare the vegetables. Dice the bell peppers into small, uniform pieces. Slice the mushrooms thinly. Measure out the frozen peas and chop the pimentos. Having all the ingredients prepped and ready to go streamlines the cooking process and prevents any last-minute scrambling. Consider lightly sauting the diced bell peppers in a separate pan for a few minutes before adding them to the main sauce. This softens them slightly and enhances their sweetness.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions for a perfect Chicken la King:

1. Saut the Mushrooms: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and saut until they are tender and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the mushrooms from the skillet and set aside.
2. Make the Roux: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a smooth roux. This is essential for thickening the sauce.
3. Add the Broth and Cream: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth. Add the heavy cream and sherry (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
5. Add the Chicken and Vegetables: Add the diced chicken, sauted mushrooms, diced bell peppers, pimentos, and frozen peas to the sauce. Stir well to combine.
6. Heat Through: Continue to simmer gently for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken and vegetables are heated through and the peas are tender. Do not boil, as this can cause the sauce to separate.
7. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of paprika, if desired. Serve hot.

Recommended Times and Temperatures: Medium heat for sauting the mushrooms and making the roux. Low simmer for thickening the sauce and heating through the chicken and vegetables. Avoid high heat to prevent burning or separating the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken la King is traditionally served over toast points or puff pastry shells. These options provide a delightful textural contrast to the creamy sauce. Other excellent serving suggestions include:

• Rice: Serve over cooked white rice or brown rice for a heartier meal.
• Noodles: Egg noodles or pasta shells pair well with the creamy sauce.
• Biscuits: Spoon Chicken la King over warm, flaky biscuits.
• Vol-au-vents: Fill pre-made vol-au-vents (small puff pastry cases) for an elegant presentation.

Side dishes that complement Chicken la King include a simple green salad, steamed asparagus, or roasted vegetables. Garnishing with a sprig of fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika adds visual appeal.

Tips and Common Mistakes

To ensure a successful Chicken la King, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Good Quality Chicken Broth: A flavorful chicken broth is essential for a delicious sauce.
• Don’t Burn the Roux: Cook the flour and butter mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it is smooth and lightly golden. Avoid browning it too much, as this can impart a bitter taste.
• Add Broth Gradually: Whisk in the chicken broth gradually to prevent lumps from forming.
• Don’t Overcook the Sauce: Simmer the sauce gently to thicken it. Overcooking can cause it to become too thick or separate.
• Avoid Boiling After Adding Cream: Boiling the sauce after adding the heavy cream can cause it to curdle. Keep the heat low and simmer gently.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.

Common mistakes to avoid include using old or rancid butter, skipping the sherry (which adds a unique depth of flavor), and overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Mastering the Chicken la King recipe brings a touch of elegance and comfort to any table. Its versatility allows for customization to suit individual tastes and dietary preferences, making it a timeless dish perfect for any occasion. From family dinners to special celebrations, Chicken la King never fails to impress. Now that knowledge is acquired, embrace the opportunity to try this recipe at home and explore a world of culinary possibilities. Discover more exciting recipes and cooking guides at foodrecipestory.com and continue to develop culinary skills and create unforgettable meals.