I’ve always loved classic recipes, and Chicken a la King is no exception. However, I also enjoy experimenting with ingredients and techniques to make dishes my own. This is one of those examples—a timeless dish infused with my nerdy, Romanian touch. Now, I won’t bore you with a long introduction. Let’s dive right into the details and see how to prepare this easy Chicken a la King recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.

How to Make Chicken a la King

• Prepare the Roasted Bell Peppers (Optional): If you prefer making your own roasted bell peppers, start by roasting them in the oven, on the grill, or directly over a flame.
• Once charred, place the peppers in a covered pot with a sprinkle of salt.
• Let them rest for 10-15 minutes before peeling and deseeding. Set aside.
• If you’re short on time, store-bought roasted bell peppers work just as well.
• Cook the Chicken and Mushrooms: Cut the chicken breast into small dice, season with salt and pepper, and grill until fully cooked and seared on all sides. Set aside.
• Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan, slice the mushrooms, and cook them until golden brown (3-4 minutes per side).

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• Remove and set aside.
• Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same pan, heat the remaining olive oil and butter.
• Peel and chop the onion, then sauté it on medium heat until translucent.
• Sprinkle in the flour and stir well.

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• Slowly add the milk, stirring continuously to create a smooth sauce.

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• Season with salt and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for a minute.
• Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken, mushrooms, and roasted bell peppers to the sauce.

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• Mix well and let the flavors meld together over low heat for a few minutes with the lid on.
• Meanwhile, cook the orzo pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• Serve: Plate the orzo pasta and top it with the creamy Chicken a la King mixture. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Why This Recipe Works So Well

The origins of Chicken a la King trace back to the late 19th century. Created in New York by Chef George Greenwald, it was initially served to a family named King, hence the name. The dish gained popularity throughout the 20th century as a versatile comfort food that could be paired with pasta, rice, or toast.

In this recipe, I’ve added a personal twist with roasted bell peppers, which bring a subtle smokiness and depth of flavor to the dish. Using orzo pasta—a Mediterranean staple—adds a playful texture that complements the creamy sauce.

From a nutritional perspective, this dish is well-balanced when eaten in moderation. The chicken provides lean protein, the mushrooms add vitamins and fiber, and the milk-based sauce is a source of calcium. If you’re mindful of calories, you can use low-fat milk or reduce the butter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions about Chicken a la King? Then check out the FAQ section. Who knows? Maybe you find the answers you are looking for.

Q: What to Serve with Chicken a la King?

A: Chicken a la King pairs wonderfully with orzo pasta, rice, toast, or even mashed potatoes. For a lighter side, consider a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.

Q: How to Make Chicken a la King?

A: Follow the simple steps above to prepare this easy Chicken a la King recipe: cook the chicken and mushrooms, make a creamy sauce, combine everything, and serve over your preferred base.

Q: What Does Chicken a la King Mean?

A: The name Chicken a la King refers to a rich, creamy dish of chicken and vegetables often served over rice or pasta. It’s thought to have been named after the King family.

Q: When Was Chicken a la King Popular?

A: This dish saw its peak popularity in the mid-20th century as a luxurious yet simple comfort food. It remains a beloved classic to this day.

Q: Where Did Chicken a la King Originate?

A: The Chicken a la King origin dates back to New York in the late 19th century, created by Chef George Greenwald.

Conclusion

I hope you’ll try this simple Chicken a la King recipe and tag us on Instagram when you do. This dish brings together timeless flavors with a personal twist, making it a delightful meal for any occasion.

For a step-by-step guide, check out the full video on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to like and subscribe!

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