Chicken a la King Recipe: A Creamy Classic
Are you craving a comforting, creamy, and utterly delicious meal? Look no further than Chicken a la King! This classic dish is surprisingly easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe focuses on achieving a rich, flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe provides a balanced blend of flavors and textures. Feel free to adjust quantities according to your preference.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch cubes. Using boneless, skinless chicken ensures quick cooking and even texture.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Provides a healthy fat base for sautéing the vegetables.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds a sweet and savory base to the sauce.
- 2 stalks celery, chopped: Adds a subtle earthy flavor and satisfying crunch.
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced: Your choice of mushrooms will work, adding a delicious umami element.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: A key ingredient for thickening the sauce.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Provides the base for the creamy sauce; use low-sodium broth to control saltiness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup dry sherry (optional): Enhances the depth of flavor (you can substitute with chicken broth).
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Adds a subtle smoky flavor.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of freshness and color.
- Cooked rice or egg noodles (for serving): Serves as a perfect bed for your Chicken a la King.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these steps for a perfectly creamy Chicken a la King:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the mushrooms and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until tender.
3. Make the Sauce:
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.
- Stir in the heavy cream, sherry (if using), Dijon mustard, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to meld the flavors.
4. Add the Chicken:
- Add the cooked chicken to the sauce and stir gently to coat.
- Heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve your Chicken a la King hot over cooked rice or egg noodles.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
- Substitute cream of mushroom soup for a quicker version (though the homemade version is far superior in flavor).
- Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the delicious sauce.
This Chicken a la King recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The creamy sauce and tender chicken make it a truly satisfying meal. Enjoy experimenting with variations to make it your own! Remember to share your culinary creations with us!
