Chicken à la King Recipe

This creamy, comforting Chicken à la King comes together in one pan in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights and cozy weekends alike. Packed with tender chicken, hearty veggies, and a luxuriously rich sauce, it’s a true classic made easy.

Easy Chicken à la King Recipe

• Only one pan and 30 minutes needed—no extra pots or complicated steps.
• Ultra-creamy, flavorful sauce with savory mushrooms, garlic, and a hint of spice.

Ingredients for Chicken à la King

• Olive Oil: Used to sear the chicken and develop a golden crust. You can substitute avocado oil or vegetable oil if needed.
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast: The lean protein base of this dish. Boneless thighs can also be used for extra tenderness.
• Butter: Adds richness and depth to the sauce. Feel free to use margarine or ghee if preferred.
• Yellow Onion: Brings sweetness and aromatics. Shallots or white onions work as substitutes.
• Cremini Mushrooms: Add a savory, meaty bite. Button mushrooms or baby bellas are good alternatives.
• Garlic: Infuses the dish with bold flavor. Garlic paste or powder can be used in a pinch.
• Italian Seasoning: Adds a herby, savory blend. You can use a mix of dried oregano, thyme, and basil if needed.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Enhance the overall flavor with concentrated seasoning. These can be omitted if you’re using fresh aromatics.
• Flour: Helps thicken the creamy sauce. Gluten-free all-purpose flour works well as a substitute.
• Chicken Broth: Forms the base of the sauce. Vegetable broth can be used for a slightly different flavor.
• Heavy Cream: Makes the sauce velvety and rich. Half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream can be used for a lighter version.
• Frozen Peas and Carrots: A classic veggie blend that adds color and sweetness. You can also use frozen mixed vegetables or fresh if preferred.
• Sliced Pimentos: Add a pop of color and subtle tang. Roasted red peppers or finely diced bell peppers work well too.

How to Make Chicken à la King

Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and mushrooms. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.

Add Aromatics and Flour: Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and flour. Cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Deglaze and Make the Sauce: Add a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in the remaining broth, then add heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.

Combine and Simmer: Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Add peas and carrots and pimentos. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 4–5 minutes, until the sauce thickens and vegetables are warmed through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve and Enjoy: Spoon over egg noodles, rice, or biscuits for a hearty, comforting meal.

Tips for Making Chicken à la King

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing chicken—it needs space to brown, not steam.
• Stir the flour mixture constantly to avoid lumps and ensure even cooking.
• Add more broth if you prefer a thinner sauce, or let it simmer longer to thicken further.

Make-Ahead Instructions

• You can cook the entire dish a day in advance.
• Store it in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat before serving. The flavors deepen overnight!

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• The sauce may thicken slightly in the fridge.

Freezing Chicken à la King

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Note: the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing.

Reheating Chicken à la King

• Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently.
• Add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
• You can also microwave individual servings in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.

Serving Suggestions

• simple house salad
• easy garlic bread
• spinach artichoke cheese bread
• air fryer green beans
• herby roasted potatoes

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