Chicken A La King is a delightful, comforting dish that transforms humble ingredients into an elegant meal. It's perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you want to impress guests without breaking a sweat.
Cooked chicken provides the main protein and works best when it's tender and juicy. Butter serves as the base for sautéing, offering richness. Our mushrooms and green bell peppers add earthiness and a bit of crunch. All-purpose flour thickens the sauce, while chicken broth and heavy cream form the creamy base. Dry sherry introduces a subtle, sophisticated flavor. Don't forget the salt and pepper for seasoning. Peas bring a touch of sweetness, and pimientos add a pop of color and mild heat. A dash of lemon juice brightens up the flavors.
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed asparagus. If serving over rice, consider a side of garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce. For a special occasion, serve it in puff pastry shells for an elegant touch.
Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, toss in the mushrooms and green bell pepper. Sauté these until they’re tender, which should take about five minutes. The kitchen will start to smell amazing at this point.
Next, sprinkle the flour over your sautéed veggies and stir constantly for two minutes. This step is crucial for cooking out the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and cream, stirring diligently until your sauce is smooth and thickened — it’ll take about five minutes.
Now, stir in the sherry, salt, and pepper. Give it a taste to ensure the seasoning is just right. Add the cooked chicken, peas, and pimientos to the sauce. Let it all simmer on low heat for about ten minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Finally, stir in the lemon juice. This little addition cuts through the richness and balances the dish beautifully. Taste once more and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve your Chicken A La King hot over a bed of fluffy rice or nestled inside puff pastry shells. Enjoy the fruits of your culinary labor!