Are you craving a creamy, comforting, yet surprisingly quick dinner? Look no further! This Chicken Ala King recipe, using the convenience of cream of chicken soup, is a delicious and easy solution for busy weeknights. This classic dish is packed with flavor and delivers a satisfying meal that's perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. It's one of those best recipes that's surprisingly simple to make, perfect for those seeking healthy meals without sacrificing taste. Let's dive into this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup sliced celery
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 cups cooked chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces (rotisserie chicken works perfectly!)
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped pimentos (optional, but adds a beautiful color and flavor)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or egg noodles, for serving
Instructions:
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Sauté the Vegetables: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the mushrooms and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until tender.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, pimentos (if using), lemon juice, and paprika to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
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Simmer and Season: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and the flavors have melded beautifully. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
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Serve: Serve the Chicken Ala King hot over cooked rice or egg noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, for an added touch of freshness.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Ala King:
- Don't Overcook the Chicken: Using pre-cooked chicken saves time and ensures your chicken remains tender. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough.
- Fresh Herbs: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of fresh thyme or tarragon during the simmering stage.
- Spice it Up: If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can stir in 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water before simmering.
Variations:
- Add Some Greens: Stir in a handful of chopped spinach or peas during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and a vibrant green hue.
- Creamy Mushroom Delight: Increase the mushrooms to 1 ½ cups for a more intense mushroom flavor.
- Seafood Ala King: Substitute the chicken with cooked shrimp or crab for a delightful seafood twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This Chicken Ala King recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are also easy recipes to make. It’s a fantastic quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, and a welcome addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. Enjoy this classic comfort food!