Classic Chicken a la King

This iconic recipe embodies the essence of warm, satisfying comfort cuisine. With its rapid preparation courtesy of pre-cooked chicken, this recipe is an ideal solution for hectic evenings when a speedy dinner is essential. Typically, one serves this dish atop a base of their choice, with the selection being a matter of individual taste and whim. This versatile condiment pairs delightfully with a variety of accompaniments, including steaming hot rice, al dente pasta, crispy toast, and buttery biscuits. The variety of flavors is tantalizing, making the decision a matter of personal preference.

Contents

Why Our Recipe Ingredient Notes Pre-Cooked Chicken Options Tempering Egg Yolks Tuna Twist Storage and Reheating Instructions

Why Our Recipe

Discover a rich and indulgent sauce, effortlessly crafted from basic ingredients in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Conveniently uses pre-cooked chicken, this dish is ready to devour within approximately 30 minutes.
Savor the rich flavors served steaming hot over a bed of fluffy rice, al dente pasta, crispy toast, or buttery biscuits for an unforgettable comfort food experience.

Chicken à la King was a culinary staple of the 1950s and 1960s. This classic recipe is the epitome of warm, comforting nostalgia, transporting us back to our grandparents’ cozy kitchens where cherished memories were forged. While this classic recipe may have stood the test of time, its enduring appeal lies in its ability to consistently satisfy even the most discerning palates, making it an effortless choice for a stress-free evening meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table?

Ingredient Notes

classic chicken a la king ingredients on table

Both white and cremini mushrooms work well in this recipe. Opt for convenience by slicing them yourself or take a shortcut with pre-sliced options and enjoy the extra hours you’ll have to spare.
Use low-sodium broth whenever possible to effectively manage the salt level and overall flavour profile of your dish. Salt to taste as needed for a more effective result.
Whole milk or two percent is the preferred choice.
As you add the hot sauce, gradually temper the eggs to avoid scrambling, ensuring a silky smooth consistency.
You can substitute heavy cream for the whole milk to enhance the richness of the sauce, or opt for half-and-half if you prefer a lighter consistency.
No need to thaw; they’ll warm through quickly in the sauce.
You can typically locate them in jars near the pickles and olives at your local grocery store. Ensure thorough draining.
Here is the rewritten text: With versatility as its hallmark, your choice of chicken can range from freshly baked to leftover, shredded, canned, or even rotisserie – each option yielding a dish that’s sure to please.

Pre-Cooked Chicken Options

Here are several excellent alternatives when a recipe requires pre-cooked chicken: While using leftover chicken is an option, its suitability depends on the seasonings and flavors already incorporated, which may or may not translate well to a new dish. Here are some other easy options to consider:

Cooked rotisserie chickens are a staple in many American grocery stores, offering customers the convenience of pre-cooked poultry that can be easily shredded for various recipes. With the rise in popularity of convenience foods, many stores have started to offer their famous rotisserie chickens pre-shredded and packaged for easy use in various recipes.

Discover a convenient shortcut by scanning the freezer aisle at your local market for pre-cooked chicken strips and bite-sized chunks.

Arrange chicken breasts in a single layer within a lightly oiled 9×13-inch baking dish. Season with salt and pepper. Preheat oven to 350°F and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until thoroughly cooked. Prepare ingredients in advance, then chop them into manageable chunks to use immediately or store in the freezer for a later cooking session.

Boil a large pot of chicken broth or water and submerge the chicken breasts within. Boil for 15 minutes, ensuring the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender. Shred or chop.

Heat a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add one tablespoon of vegetable oil. Place chicken breasts into skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 10-14 minutes in total, flipping every 5-7 minutes.

wooden spoon scooping cooked classic chicken a la king from pan

Tempering Egg Yolks

By tempering egg yolks, one prevents them from curdling and cooking into scrambled eggs when introduced to the hot pan of simmering sauce, thereby preserving their creamy texture and preventing the formation of chunky egg pieces. To temper your egg yolks effectively, gently pour about half a cup of the warm sauce mixture into the bowl containing the egg yolks and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling. Swiftly whisk the ingredients together, then introduce the amalgamation into the sizzling skillet with rapid yet delicate strokes.

Tuna Twist

While some may opt to substitute chicken with tuna in traditional Chicken à la King, this variation can still delight seafood enthusiasts. To prepare a delectable Tuna a la King, substitute the chicken portion of your favorite recipe with approximately 4 cups of canned tuna. Ensure you utilise premium-grade tuna for an unparalleled gustatory experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Stored in an airtight container, cooked chicken remains safe to consume for 3 to 4 days.

Any leftover portions can be stored in freezer-safe containers or freezer bags once the dish has cooled to room temperature. Frozen for up to one month; thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Heat the mixture in the microwave on high for 15-second increments, stirring well after each interval, until thoroughly warmed. Alternatively, warm the mixture gently over low to medium heat in a pan, stirring frequently, until it reaches your desired temperature.