Are you looking for a delicious and creamy sauce to accompany your chicken ala king? Look no further!
In this article, we will explore different methods for making the perfect sauce for this classic dish. Whether you prefer a homemade sauce or a quick and easy store-bought option, we’ve got you covered.
From rotisserie chicken to boiling your own, we’ll also discuss different ways to prepare the chicken for your dish.
So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
How To Make Sauce For Chicken Ala King?
There are several ways to make the perfect sauce for your chicken ala king. One popular method is to start with a roux, which is a mixture of flour and fat that is used to thicken sauces.
To make a roux, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add in flour and stir until there are no more specks of flour left. Pour in chicken broth and milk and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer until the sauce is thickened, about 3 minutes.
For a richer sauce, you can whisk together egg yolks with heavy cream in a small mixing bowl. Slowly pour in 1/2 cup of the hot mixture into the egg mixture while whisking vigorously. Immediately pour this mixture back into the saucepan, whisking the entire time. Cook for 2 minutes more.
Another option is to use a store-bought cream of chicken soup as your base. Simply heat up the soup in a saucepan and add in your cooked chicken, mushrooms, and other desired ingredients.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to season your sauce with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs.
Introduction To Chicken Ala King
Chicken ala king is a classic and flavorful dish that has been enjoyed by many for decades. It is a creamy, rich and savory chicken dish that is typically made with mushrooms, green peas, pimientos, and chopped chicken or turkey. The dish is often served over rice, pasta, toast, or biscuits and is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
The origins of chicken ala king are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have been invented in the late 19th or early 20th century by a chef at the famous Delmonico’s restaurant in New York City. The dish quickly became popular and was soon being served at other high-end restaurants across the country.
Today, chicken ala king is a beloved comfort food that can be found on the menus of many diners and restaurants. It is also a favorite among home cooks who enjoy making it from scratch in their own kitchens.
One of the key components of chicken ala king is the sauce. The sauce is what gives the dish its creamy texture and rich flavor. There are many different ways to make the sauce for chicken ala king, but most recipes call for a combination of butter, flour, milk or cream, and chicken broth.
Whether you prefer to make your sauce from scratch or use a store-bought soup as your base, there are plenty of options available to suit your taste and cooking style. So why not give this classic dish a try and see why it has been a favorite for generations?
Choosing Your Chicken
When it comes to choosing your chicken for chicken ala king, there are several options to consider. One option is to use leftover chicken, but depending on the seasonings and flavors added, it may not work well in just any recipe.
Another option is to use pre-cooked chicken. Rotisserie chicken is a popular choice and can be found at many American grocery stores. You can buy a whole cooked rotisserie chicken and shred it yourself, or some stores even offer the chicken pre-shredded and packaged. Frozen cooked chicken strips and chunks are also available in the freezer section of most grocery stores.
If you prefer to cook your own chicken, baking or boiling are both great options. To bake your own chicken, lay chicken breasts out into a lightly greased 9×13 pan, season with salt and pepper, and bake at 350 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes until cooked through. Chop into chunks and use right away or freeze for later use. To boil your own chicken, place chicken breasts into a large pot of boiling water or chicken broth and boil for 15 minutes until cooked through. Shred or chop the chicken before adding it to your sauce.
Quick skillet chicken is another option if you’re short on time. Heat a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat, add in 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, place chicken breasts into the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to fully cook your chicken before adding it to your sauce. Once your sauce is complete, add in your cooked chicken and any other desired ingredients and let everything heat through for a few minutes before serving over rice, pasta, toast, or biscuits.
Homemade Sauce Recipe
If you prefer to make your own sauce from scratch, here is a homemade recipe that is sure to impress your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup half & half
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and stir until there are no more specks of flour left.
3. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Add the half & half and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer until the sauce is thickened, about 3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This sauce is perfect for chicken ala king, but can also be used for other dishes such as pasta or vegetables. Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
Quick And Easy Store-Bought Options
If you’re looking for a quick and easy option for your chicken ala king sauce, there are several store-bought options available. One popular choice is to use a can of cream of chicken soup as your base. Simply heat up the soup in a saucepan and add in your cooked chicken, mushrooms, and other desired ingredients. This is a great option if you’re short on time or if you don’t have all the ingredients on hand to make a sauce from scratch.
Another option is to use a pre-made chicken gravy mix. These mixes come in packets and can be found in the gravy aisle of most grocery stores. Simply follow the instructions on the packet to make the gravy, then add in your cooked chicken and vegetables.
If you’re looking for a healthier option, there are also low-sodium and organic cream of chicken soup options available. You can also find organic and low-sodium gravy mixes at some health food stores.
No matter which store-bought option you choose, be sure to read the label carefully to ensure that it fits your dietary needs and preferences. And don’t forget to season your sauce with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs to give it that homemade flavor.
Tips For Perfecting Your Sauce
1. Whisk constantly: When making a roux, it is important to whisk constantly to avoid lumps forming in the sauce. This will ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
2. Use high-quality ingredients: Using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh herbs and homemade chicken broth, can make a big difference in the flavor of your sauce.
3. Add in layers: Layering in your ingredients, such as sautéed onions and garlic, can add depth and complexity to your sauce.
4. Adjust consistency: If your sauce is too thin, add a bit more flour or cornstarch to thicken it up. If it’s too thick, add a bit more liquid, such as chicken broth or milk, to thin it out.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Salt and pepper are essential, but you can also try adding in other spices or herbs to enhance the flavor.
By following these tips, you can create a delicious and flavorful sauce for your chicken ala king that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Serving Suggestions And Pairings
When it comes to serving chicken ala king, there are many pairing options that can elevate this classic dish. One great option is to serve it over rice, which will soak up the creamy sauce and add a nice texture contrast to the tender chicken.
If you’re looking for a heartier option, biscuits are a classic pairing with chicken ala king. They are fluffy and absorbent, making them perfect for soaking up all the delicious sauce. You can also try serving this dish over toast or pasta for a comforting meal.
When it comes to bread, it’s important to consider the flavors and textures of your chicken. If you’re serving a chicken that is heavily sauced or covered in cheese, a lighter bread such as sourdough or Italian bread would be a great choice. For a chicken with lighter flavors, you can get creative and pair it with almost any type of bread that suits your taste.
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding some fresh herbs or garnishes to your dish. Parsley or chives can add a pop of color and freshness, while sliced mushrooms or bell peppers can add some texture and depth.
