Classic Chicken a la King Recipe brings together creamy, savory goodness and nostalgia in every single bite. Perfectly tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a luxuriously rich sauce transform everyday ingredients into a dish that always feels special, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a meal destined for guests. There’s just something utterly satisfying about this combination of comforting textures and flavors—the kind of meal that lingers in your memory, begging you to come back for seconds.

Classic Chicken a la King Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Just a handful of pantry staples and a dash of fresh flavor are all you need for this Classic Chicken a la King Recipe. Each ingredient not only plays a vital role in delivering depth and creaminess but also brings pops of color and satisfying texture to this timeless favorite.

Unsalted butter: Rich and creamy, it forms the flavor base and beautifully sautés the vegetables.
Onion (chopped): Adds subtle sweetness and a soft foundation to the sauce.
Sliced mushrooms: Bring earthiness and a tender bite that makes the dish hearty and full-bodied.
All-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the sauce, ensuring every spoonful is perfectly luscious.
Chicken broth: Delivers savory depth and helps meld all the flavors together.
Whole milk: Adds creaminess without heaviness, giving perfect balance to the sauce.
Heavy cream: Elevates the silkiness and richness that makes this dish truly special.
Cooked chicken (shredded or diced): The star protein—rotisserie or leftover roast works wonderfully!
Frozen peas: For bright color and a little pop of sweetness in each bite.
Diced pimientos (drained): Offer bursts of color and a very mild tang that balances the creaminess.
Salt & black pepper: Bring all the flavors forward and season the sauce to perfection.
Garlic powder: Infuses warmth without overpowering the delicate sauce.
Paprika: Adds gentle smokiness and a warm hue to the finished dish.
Chopped parsley (optional): The fresh, final flourish that makes everything look and taste a little brighter.

How to Make Classic Chicken a la King Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by reaching for your trusty large skillet, placing it over medium heat, and melting the butter until it foams. Add the chopped onion and let it cook for just a few minutes—watch as it turns soft and fragrant, setting a delicious, inviting base for the sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms

Toss in those sliced mushrooms and give everything a gentle stir. Let them cook until they’re tender and beautifully browned, which not only deepens their flavor but also adds a hearty, meaty texture to the creamy sauce.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly; this is your key to a velvety sauce. Let it cook for a couple of minutes—you’re aiming to banish any raw flour flavor and create a golden, fragrant base that will thicken everything beautifully.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Slowly whisk in the chicken broth to avoid lumps, then add the milk and heavy cream, pouring in a steady stream. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Bring it to a gentle simmer for a few minutes while the sauce thickens to just the right consistency for your Classic Chicken a la King Recipe.

Step 5: Add Chicken and Veggies

Fold in the cooked chicken, peas, and pimientos, along with the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Give everything a good stir and let it all simmer together just long enough for those beautiful flavors to meld and for the chicken to be heated through—about 5 minutes more.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Serve your creamy creation hot over crisp pastry shells, buttery toast, flaky biscuits, or fluffy rice. A sprinkle of fresh parsley right before serving offers a burst of color and herbaceous freshness that’s hard to resist.

How to Serve Classic Chicken a la King Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley instantly brightens each serving, but you can also try a dash of extra paprika or delicate slivers of chive for a little added flair. Think of garnishes as the finishing touch that makes every plate look as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This rich main pairs perfectly with simple sides like steamed white rice, fluffy mashed potatoes, or homemade buttermilk biscuits. Feeling adventurous? Try serving it atop puff pastry shells or even over egg noodles—the sauce soaks in just right, making every bite mouthwateringly decadent.

Creative Ways to Present

The Classic Chicken a la King Recipe is delightfully versatile! Serve it in mini puff pastry cups at a party for bite-sized sophistication, spoon it over sourdough toast for a retro brunch vibe, or ladle it onto baked potatoes for cozy comfort food with a twist. Let your imagination lead and have fun making it your own.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Classic Chicken a la King Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen as it rests, making next-day lunches or dinners even more delicious. Just be sure to let the dish cool to room temperature first before storing.

Freezing

If you want to freeze this dish, allow it to cool, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. While the creamy sauce may separate slightly upon thawing, a good whisk during reheating usually revives its silky smoothness. For best results, consume within one to two months of freezing.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth if the sauce seems too thick. You can also microwave single servings in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until it’s steaming hot and creamy again.

FAQs

Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey, especially after the holidays. The flavors meld just as nicely, making it just as comforting and delicious as the original Classic Chicken a la King Recipe.

Is there a way to make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. Be sure to check all your other ingredients for hidden gluten sources if this is a dietary need for you.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in diced bell peppers, carrots, or even a bit of spinach for extra nutrients and color. Just cook firmer vegetables a bit longer to get them tender before adding to the sauce.

What’s the best way to cook chicken for this recipe?

Any cooked chicken works—rotisserie chicken, roasted breast, or thighs. If starting from scratch, poach chicken breasts in gently simmering broth until cooked through, then shred or dice for your Classic Chicken a la King Recipe.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

You can make the sauce (without the chicken and veggies) a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat and stir in the chicken, peas, and pimientos for a quick, easy dinner.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing like the comfort and satisfaction of a homemade Classic Chicken a la King Recipe. Whether you’re introducing it to your family for the first time or rediscovering a childhood favorite, this creamy, crowd-pleasing dish is bound to become a regular in your kitchen. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed by how easy and delicious it is!

Classic Chicken a la King Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 12 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A comforting and creamy Classic Chicken a la King recipe that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner. This dish features tender chunks of chicken, savory mushrooms, sweet peas, and pimientos in a rich, flavorful sauce, served over your choice of accompaniment. Easy to make and sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

Scale

Main Dish:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small onion, chopped
1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1/2 cup frozen peas
1/4 cup diced pimientos, drained
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika

Garnish:

Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft.
Add the mushrooms and cook for another 4–5 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
Sprinkle in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the milk and cream, whisking until smooth.
Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3–4 minutes until thickened.
Stir in the cooked chicken, peas, pimientos, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Simmer for 5 more minutes, or until everything is heated through.
Serve hot over puff pastry shells, toast, biscuits, or rice.
Garnish with parsley if desired.