Classic Chicken a la King

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the creamy, comforting taste of Classic Chicken a la King, a timeless dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and sweet peas in a rich, velvety sauce. Perfectly served over rice or nestled in a flaky pastry, this recipe is ideal for family dinners or special occasions, offering a touch of nostalgia with every bite.

Lucy Bennett

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2025-11-16T11:34:39.257Z

Classic Chicken a la King has been a staple in many households, known for its rich flavors and creamy texture. This recipe captures all the nostalgia and comfort of this beloved dish.

A Perfect Family Meal

Classic Chicken a la King is more than just a dish; it's a centerpiece for family gatherings. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it universally appealing, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy every bite. Whether it's a casual dinner or a holiday celebration, this meal brings everyone to the table, creating a warm atmosphere filled with laughter and conversation.

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can customize the ingredients based on what you have at home. If you're out of bell peppers, for instance, you can substitute with mushrooms or carrots. The dish adapts beautifully, allowing you to put your unique spin on the classic while still preserving its heartwarming essence.

Quick and Easy Preparation

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to cook can be a challenge. This Classic Chicken a la King recipe is designed with efficiency in mind, enabling you to whip up a comforting meal in under 30 minutes. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a delicious dinner on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.

The preparation process is a breeze! As you sauté the vegetables and prepare the creamy sauce, the enticing aroma fills your kitchen, making it hard to resist. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal that doesn't compromise on flavor or quality.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Chicken a la King shines whether served over fluffy rice or inside a flaky pastry shell. The choice of base can elevate the dish to match the occasion. For a casual family dinner, serve it with warm rice, allowing the sauce to soak in for maximum flavor. For a more elegant presentation at gatherings, go for pastry shells that add a delightful crunch.

To enhance the meal further, consider pairing it with a fresh salad or some steamed vegetables. A light green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted asparagus can perfectly complement the richness of the Chicken a la King, creating a well-rounded dining experience that delights the palate.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to start your delicious dish.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
  • 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (red and green)
  • 1 cup sweet peas, frozen or fresh
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooked rice or pastry shells for serving

Once you have your ingredients ready, you can move on to preparing the dish.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Classic Chicken a la King.

Make the roux

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a smooth roux, cooking for about 2 minutes until golden.

Add broth and cream

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the heavy cream and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.

Incorporate chicken and veggies

Stir in the diced chicken, bell peppers, and peas. Season with salt and pepper, cooking until heated through.

Serve

Serve the mixture over rice or in pastry shells for a delightful meal.

Enjoy this delicious dish with your family and friends!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Chicken a la King can be a lifesaver for busy days. To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 3 to 4 days for optimal freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat; add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.

For longer-term storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers. This way, you can prepare a big batch and enjoy the creamy goodness anytime you want. When thawing, let it sit in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat gently to preserve the dish's delightful texture.

Nutritional Information

This Classic Chicken a la King recipe is not only satisfying but also nutritious. Packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from the bell peppers and peas, it offers a balanced meal suitable for various dietary preferences. The inclusion of heavy cream provides a source of healthy fats, making it a fulfilling choice during colder months.

For those seeking lighter options, consider using low-fat cream or milk alternatives to reduce calories without sacrificing flavor. You can also experiment with whole grain rice or alternative bases like quinoa for a more fiber-rich version that still complements the smoothness of the dish.

Secondary image

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes, leftover roast chicken works perfectly in this recipe.

→ Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator before adding chicken.

Classic Chicken a la King

Savor the creamy, comforting taste of Classic Chicken a la King, a timeless dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and sweet peas in a rich, velvety sauce. Perfectly served over rice or nestled in a flaky pastry, this recipe is ideal for family dinners or special occasions, offering a touch of nostalgia with every bite.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time45 minutes

Created by: Lucy Bennett

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
  2. 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (red and green)
  3. 1 cup sweet peas, frozen or fresh
  4. 1/4 cup butter
  5. 1/4 cup flour
  6. 2 cups chicken broth
  7. 1 cup heavy cream
  8. Salt and pepper to taste
  9. Cooked rice or pastry shells for serving

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a smooth roux, cooking for about 2 minutes until golden.

Step 02

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the heavy cream and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.

Step 03

Stir in the diced chicken, bell peppers, and peas. Season with salt and pepper, cooking until heated through.

Step 04

Serve the mixture over rice or in pastry shells for a delightful meal.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 25g