Chicken à la King is a classic dish that originated in the United States during the late 19th century. Its exact origins are debated, with multiple claims to its invention. One story attributes its creation to a chef named George Greenwald, who allegedly came up with the recipe while working at the Bellevue Hotel in Philadelphia. Another tale credits the dish to Charles Ranhofer, the legendary chef of Delmonico’s Restaurant in New York City. Regardless of its precise origin, Chicken à la King quickly gained popularity and became a staple in American cuisine.
This delectable dish features tender chicken pieces cooked in a rich and creamy sauce, accompanied by a medley of colorful vegetables. The sauce is made by combining a roux, made from butter and flour, with chicken broth and heavy cream. This combination creates a velvety and luxurious texture that coats the chicken and vegetables, infusing them with flavor. The dish is typically seasoned with salt, pepper, and paprika, which add a hint of spice and depth to the overall taste.
The taste profile of Chicken à la King can be described as comforting, savory, and creamy. The chicken is cooked to perfection, remaining moist and tender within the luscious sauce. The combination of onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms adds a delightful earthy sweetness, while the peas provide a pop of vibrant color and a subtle hint of freshness. The sauce ties all the elements together, enveloping each bite in a rich and velvety embrace. The paprika adds a touch of warmth and a visually appealing garnish.
Chicken à la King gained immense popularity in the United States, particularly during the mid-20th century. It became a go-to recipe for elegant dinners and was often served at formal occasions and social gatherings. Its rich flavors and creamy texture appealed to a wide range of palates, making it a beloved dish for both home cooks and professional chefs. Over the years, variations of the recipe have emerged, incorporating different herbs, spices, and even alternative proteins such as turkey or seafood.
Today, Chicken à la King continues to hold a special place in American cuisine. It is considered a timeless classic that evokes a sense of nostalgia and comfort. Whether served over rice, pasta, or toasted bread, this award-winning recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that is sure to please. Its popularity endures, as it remains a favorite choice for those seeking a satisfying and elegant meal.
Chicken a la king
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper finely chopped
- 2 stalks celery finely chopped
- 8 Oz mushrooms sliced
- 4 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 Cups chicken broth
- 1 Cup heavy cream
- 1 Cup frozen peas
- ½ Cup sherry
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- ½ Tsp paprika
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and mushrooms. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture back to a simmer. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Cut the cooked chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and add them to the skillet along with the frozen peas. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the chicken and peas are heated through.
- Stir in the chopped parsley and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle the paprika over the top for color and flavor.
- Serve the Chicken à la King over cooked rice, pasta, or toasted bread. Garnish with additional parsley, if desired.
