When it comes to comfort food, few dishes evoke the kind of warmth and nostalgia quite like Chicken ala King. This creamy, flavorful dish has been a favorite in American kitchens for decades. It’s a savory casserole of tender chicken, vegetables, and a luscious cream sauce. For those who appreciate a dish that combines both richness and simplicity, Chicken ala King is the ideal choice.
The beauty of Chicken ala King lies not just in its flavor, but also in its versatility. You can serve it over various bases, from buttered toast to rice, and even flaky puff pastry. But what truly elevates it is the Cream of Mushroom Soup, which acts as the base for the sauce, adding depth, texture, and a subtle earthiness. Today, we’ll take you through a detailed recipe that’s easy to follow, with all the tips, variations, and ingredient insights you need to make this dish truly your own.
Chicken Ala King Cream Of Mushroom Soup Recipe
Ingredients Needed
To make this mouth-watering dish, you’ll need a handful of simple, yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s the breakdown:
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2 cups cooked chicken (diced or shredded)
- Feel free to use leftover chicken or poach some fresh chicken breasts. The more tender, the better.
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1 Can (10.5 Oz) Cream Of Mushroom Soup
- This is the heart of the sauce. It creates that silky, creamy texture.
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1/2 Cup Heavy Cream
- Adds richness and smoothness to the dish. You can substitute with half-and-half, but heavy cream gives the best results.
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1 cup frozen peas (or fresh, if preferred)
- Peas add a pop of color and sweetness that balances the richness of the dish.
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1/2 cup pimentos (optional, but they give a pop of color and slight tang)
- If you want to add a dash of vibrant color, this is the secret ingredient!
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1/2 cup diced bell pepper (red, green, or yellow)
- A mild, sweet flavor that brightens the dish. Plus, the bell peppers add a beautiful crunch.
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1/4 Cup Chopped Onion
- Provides depth and a savory bite. You can also use shallots for a milder flavor.
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1 Tablespoon Butter
- For sautéing the vegetables and adding a little extra richness to the sauce.
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1 teaspoon garlic powder (or fresh minced garlic)
- This boosts the savory flavor of the dish, especially when paired with the mushrooms.
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Salt And Pepper To Taste
- Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
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Chopped Parsley Or Chives For Garnish
- For a fresh, herbal touch to finish the dish.
Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s dive into how to pull everything together. Don’t worry-this dish comes together quickly, and the result is beyond delicious.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- If you’re using garlic, toss it in now and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add The Soup And Cream
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, followed by the heavy cream. Mix until smooth and well-combined.
- Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
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Add The Chicken And Peas
- Stir in the cooked chicken, frozen peas, and pimentos (if using). Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is heated through and the peas are tender.
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Season To Taste
- Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. This is where you can get creative-feel free to add a pinch of paprika or a squeeze of lemon for extra flair.
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Serve
- Once everything is nice and hot, serve the Chicken ala King over buttered toast, rice, or mashed potatoes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness.
Ingredient Insights
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: This canned soup is often the shortcut to making a creamy sauce, but it’s also incredibly versatile. While some people might hesitate due to its processed nature, it’s the creamy texture and umami-rich flavor that makes it a great choice. Plus, it reduces prep time drastically, meaning you can whip up a homemade dinner in a matter of minutes.
- Heavy Cream: This ingredient is non-negotiable if you’re aiming for a luscious, velvety sauce. You can substitute with milk or half-and-half, but the creaminess won’t be the same. Heavy cream thickens and adds body to the sauce, ensuring it sticks to the chicken and vegetables.
- Frozen Peas: These tiny, green gems are not only visually appealing but also bring a touch of natural sweetness that balances out the creamy richness of the dish. You could also swap them for frozen mixed veggies, but peas are the classic choice.
Expert Tips
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you want to cut down on prep time, using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a fantastic option. It’s already cooked, and the flavors are rich and smoky, making it perfect for this dish.
- Make It Spicy: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a little heat. It creates an interesting contrast to the creaminess and will give the dish an extra kick.
- Play with the Vegetables: While bell peppers and peas are the classic choice, you can experiment with other veggies like mushrooms, carrots, or even spinach. Just be mindful of cooking times, as some vegetables may require a bit more time to soften.
- Don’t Overcook the Sauce: Once you add the chicken and peas, avoid boiling the sauce vigorously. This can cause it to curdle or separate. A gentle simmer will do the trick.
- Make It Ahead: Chicken ala King actually keeps pretty well in the fridge, so feel free to make it ahead and reheat it for an easy meal the next day. Just be sure to keep it in an airtight container!
Recipe Variations
- Low-Carb Version: If you’re looking to make this dish lower in carbs, skip the bread or rice and serve the chicken over cauliflower rice or a bed of sautéed greens (spinach or kale works great).
- Vegan/Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for plant-based protein such as tofu or tempeh. Replace the cream of mushroom soup with a vegan version, and use a dairy-free cream like coconut milk or almond milk.
- Seafood Twist: Want to get adventurous? Try adding shrimp or crab instead of chicken. The delicate flavors of seafood can make for a delightful variation.
Final Words
Chicken ala King with cream of mushroom soup is one of those classic dishes that just never goes out of style. It’s simple yet indulgent, filling yet comforting. And the best part is that you can customize it to fit your tastes-whether you prefer more veggies, extra seasoning, or even a different protein.
This dish is an easy go-to for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. It’s a surefire crowd-pleaser, and it’s perfect for those moments when you want to treat yourself (and your loved ones) to something hearty and satisfying without a ton of effort.