Name: Slow Cooker Chicken a la King Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 3 h 35 min
Total time: 3 h 40 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup sweet onion; 1 rib celery; 3 garlic cloves; ¼ cup water; 2 lbs chicken breasts; ½ tsp seasoned salt; ½ green bell pepper; 1 red bell pepper; 8 oz mushrooms; 10½ oz cream of chicken of soup; 1 cup chicken broth; 8 oz cream cheese; 2 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tbsp water; 1½ cups frozen peas; 1 box puff pastry sheets; 1 egg; 1 tbsp water

Looking for a comforting and savory meal that's easy to make? This slow cooker chicken a la king recipe is a fantastic option. It's not only packed with rich flavors but it's also a great way to make the most out of your slow cooker. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and the flaky crust from the puff pastry combine to make this dish a true winner.

Photos of Slow Cooker Chicken a la King Recipe

The ingredients needed for this recipe are commonly found in your local supermarket, but there are a few items you might want to be aware of. Cream of chicken soup, a key ingredient, can be found in the soup aisle. Puff pastry sheets, used for the topping, are usually located in the freezer section. If you can't find seasoned salt, it's easy to make your own with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken a la King

Sweet onion: Provides a slightly sweet and subtle flavor that doesn't overpower the other ingredients.

Celery: Adds a crisp texture and a distinctive taste.

Garlic cloves: They give a strong and pungent flavor.

Chicken breasts: They are lean, tender, and high in protein.

Bell peppers: They add a sweet, slightly bitter note and a pop of color.

Mushrooms: They offer a meaty texture and an earthy flavor.

Cream of chicken soup: A creamy base for the sauce.

Chicken broth: It adds depth and richness to the dish.

Cream cheese: It gives the dish a creamy, tangy taste.

Frozen peas: They add sweetness, texture, and color.

Puff pastry sheets: Used as a flaky, buttery topping.

Egg: Used for the egg wash that gives the puff pastry a golden color when baked.

One reader, Dyann Buffington says:

This slow cooker chicken a la king recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the chicken turns out so tender. It's a breeze to make, and the puff pastry adds a delightful touch. It's become a family favorite in our household. Highly recommend trying it out!

Dyann Buffington

Techniques Required for Slow Cooker Chicken a la King

How to prepare the puff pastry: Unfold the pastry sheets and cut each into 4 squares. For each square, cut a thin strip almost all the way through on each side. Wet the dough with fingers and then pull each thin strip onto the adjacent edge and lightly press down. Continue with each square.

How to bake the puff pastry: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Grease a baking sheet or line with parchment paper. Lightly brush the pastry squares with an egg and water mixture. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until puffed and golden.

How to shred the chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This can be done directly in the slow cooker.

How to serve: Spoon the chicken a la king mixture over each puff pastry and serve immediately.

How To Make Slow Cooker Chicken a la King

Take five minutes to prep this chicken a la king, slow-cooked with onions, mushrooms, bell peppers, and broth, shredded and served with puff pastry.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 3 hours 35 minutes

Total: 3 hours 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cupsweet onion,diced
1ribcelery,chopped
3garlic cloves,minced
¼cupwater
2lbschicken breasts,boneless, skinless
½tspseasoned salt
½green bell pepper,diced
1red bell pepper,diced
8ozmushrooms,sliced
10½ozcream of chicken of soup
1cupchicken broth
8ozcream cheese
2tbspcornstarch
2tbspwater
1½cupsfrozen peas
1boxPuff Pastry Sheets,(17.3 oz), 2 sheets, thawed
1egg
1tbspwater

Instructions

Mix onion, celery, garlic, and water together in a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and microwave for 5 minutes (stir halfway through) until onions are translucent.
Place chicken in the bottom of a slow cooker and sprinkle with seasoned salt. Add the onion mixture, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
Mix the soup and chicken broth together and then pour in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on Low for 3 hours.
Mix the cornstarch and water together in a small dish and add to the slow cooker along with the cream cheese and peas. Mix in and cook for 30 minutes, uncovered.
Meanwhile, make the puff pastry. Grease a baking sheet or line with parchment paper. Unfold the pastry sheets and cut each into 4 squares.
For each square, cut a thin strip almost all the way through on each side. Wet the dough with fingers and then pull each thin strip onto the adjacent edge and lightly press down. Continue with each square.
Mix the egg and water together and then lightly brush the square with it.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes at 400 degrees F until puffed and golden.
Shred the chicken. Spoon the chicken mixture over each puff pastry and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 560.86kcal
Fat: 35.17g
Saturated Fat: 12.38g
Trans Fat: 0.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 14.54g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.80g
Carbohydrates: 28.16g
Fiber: 2.61g
Sugar: 5.53g
Protein: 32.55g
Cholesterol: 127.63mg
Sodium: 744.11mg
Calcium: 69.14mg
Potassium: 578.53mg
Iron: 2.99mg
Vitamin A: 207.52µg
Vitamin C: 31.52mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Slow Cooker Chicken a la King

When preparing the puff pastry, ensure that it is kept cold until just before baking. This helps the pastry puff up more in the oven, resulting in a flakier and more tender texture. If the pastry becomes too warm, it may become difficult to handle and not puff as much. So, keep it in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it. Also, when brushing the pastry with the egg wash, be careful not to let the wash drip down the sides as this can inhibit the pastry's rise.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chicken a la King

Prep ahead: Chop the vegetables and measure out the ingredients the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-cooked chicken: Consider using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken to cut down on cooking time.

Frozen vegetables: Substitute fresh vegetables with frozen ones to save time on chopping and preparation.

Slow cooker liners: Use slow cooker liners for easy cleanup and less time spent scrubbing the pot.

Multi-task: While the chicken a la king is cooking, prepare the puff pastry sheets to save time.

Kitchen gadgets: Utilize kitchen gadgets like a food processor to quickly chop vegetables and a pastry brush for easy egg wash application.

Leftovers: Make extra chicken a la king and freeze the leftovers for a quick and convenient meal in the future.

Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Chicken a la King Recipe

sweet onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a similar sweet flavor and can be used as a substitute for sweet onions in most recipes.
celery - Substitute with fennel: Fennel has a similar crunchy texture and a slightly sweet, anise-like flavor that can work well as a substitute for celery.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic cloves, with 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder equivalent to one clove of garlic.
chicken breasts - Substitute with boneless turkey thighs: Boneless turkey thighs can be used as a substitute for chicken breasts, providing a similar texture and flavor when cooked.
seasoned salt - Substitute with kosher salt and a pinch of paprika: A mixture of kosher salt and paprika can replicate the flavor and seasoning of seasoned salt.
green bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell peppers can be used as a substitute for green bell peppers, offering a slightly sweeter flavor.
red bell pepper - Substitute with orange bell pepper: Orange bell peppers can be used as a substitute for red bell peppers, providing a similar texture and flavor.
mushrooms - Substitute with sliced zucchini: Sliced zucchini can be used as a substitute for mushrooms, adding a similar texture and mild flavor to the dish.
cream of chicken soup - Substitute with homemade cream of chicken soup: Making a homemade version of cream of chicken soup using butter, flour, chicken broth, and seasonings can be a substitute for canned soup.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, providing a similar savory flavor to the dish.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for cream cheese, offering a tangy flavor and creamy texture.
cornstarch - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used as a substitute for cornstarch to thicken the sauce in the recipe.
frozen peas - Substitute with frozen mixed vegetables: Frozen mixed vegetables can be used as a substitute for peas, adding a variety of vegetables to the dish.
puff pastry sheets - Substitute with biscuit dough: Biscuit dough can be used as a substitute for puff pastry sheets to create a flaky topping for the dish.
egg - Substitute with milk: Milk can be used as a substitute for egg wash to brush on the pastry for browning.

Best Way to Present Chicken a la King

Elevate the puff pastry: Gently lift the puff pastry with a pair of tongs and place it on the plate with precision, ensuring it maintains its puffed and golden appearance.
Create a symmetrical arrangement: Arrange the puff pastry and chicken mixture in a symmetrical and visually appealing manner on the plate, ensuring each component is showcased elegantly.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped chives or parsley to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the overall presentation.
Incorporate a drizzle: Use a squeeze bottle to delicately drizzle a small amount of reduced balsamic glaze around the edge of the plate for a touch of sophistication.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate, allowing the dish to stand out and be the focal point without overcrowding the presentation.
Add a touch of edible flowers: Place a small, carefully selected edible flower on the plate to introduce a subtle yet visually stunning element to the dish.
Consider the plate shape and color: Choose a plate that complements the colors of the dish and consider using a non-traditional shape to add an element of surprise and creativity.
Use microgreens for a finishing touch: Sprinkle a few vibrant microgreens on top of the chicken a la king for a delicate and refined finishing touch.
Employ a sauce swirl: Create an artistic swirl of a complementary sauce on the plate to add a touch of elegance and finesse to the overall presentation.
Emphasize height and dimension: Strategically layer the puff pastry and chicken mixture to create height and dimension on the plate, adding visual interest to the presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Slow Cooker Chicken a la King

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It can be used to make sauces, dips, and pastry dough as well.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is a kitchen essential for combining ingredients, marinating meats, and preparing batters and doughs. It comes in various sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic.
Slow cooker: A slow cooker, also known as a crockpot, is a countertop electrical cooking appliance used for simmering at low temperatures. It's perfect for preparing stews, soups, and braised dishes with minimal effort.
Baking sheet: A baking sheet, also known as a sheet pan, is a flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking cookies, pastries, and other baked goods. It can also be used for roasting vegetables and meats.
Pastry brush: A pastry brush is a kitchen tool with bristles used for basting, glazing, and applying sauces or melted butter to pastries, bread, and other baked goods.
Microwave: A microwave oven is a kitchen appliance that uses microwave radiation to cook, heat, and defrost food quickly. It's convenient for tasks like melting butter, heating liquids, and steaming vegetables.
Baking dish: A baking dish is a deep, oven-safe container used for baking casseroles, lasagnas, and other baked dishes. It can be made of glass, ceramic, or metal.
Parchment paper: Parchment paper is a non-stick paper used for lining baking sheets and pans to prevent food from sticking. It's also used for wrapping and steaming food.
Knife: A knife is an essential kitchen tool used for slicing, dicing, chopping, and mincing ingredients. Different types of knives, such as chef's knives, paring knives, and serrated knives, serve various purposes in cooking.
Brush: A brush, such as a silicone brush, is used for applying oil, butter, or egg wash to food items before baking or grilling. It helps to create a golden, glossy finish on pastries and meats.
Plastic wrap: Plastic wrap, also known as cling film, is a thin plastic film commonly used for covering and wrapping food to keep it fresh. It's useful for marinating, storing, and covering dishes.
Baking rack: A baking rack, also known as a cooling rack, is a metal grid used for cooling baked goods, as well as for roasting meats and allowing excess fat to drip away.
Whisk: A whisk is a kitchen utensil used for blending, whipping, and incorporating air into ingredients. It's commonly used for mixing batters, sauces, and dressings.
Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are essential for accurately measuring dry and liquid ingredients in cooking and baking recipes. They come in various sizes and are used to ensure precise measurements.

Storing and Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken a la King

Allow the chicken a la king to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled mixture to an airtight container and keep it refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
When ready to serve, reheat the mixture in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin out the sauce if it has thickened during storage.
For freezing, transfer the cooled mixture to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To thaw, place the frozen chicken a la king in the refrigerator overnight or until completely thawed.
Reheat the thawed mixture in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a small amount of chicken broth or water to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
Note: The puff pastry squares are best served fresh and do not store or freeze well. Prepare them just before serving the reheated chicken a la king for the best texture and flavor.

How To Reheat Chicken a la King Leftovers

Reheat the chicken a la king in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the dish is evenly reheated without overcooking the chicken or causing the cream sauce to separate.
If you prefer to use the microwave, transfer the leftover chicken a la king to a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the dish is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the sauce to become grainy or the chicken to dry out.
For a crispy twist, spoon the reheated chicken a la king over freshly baked puff pastry squares. To reheat the pastry, place the squares on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or until they are crisp and heated through.
If you have leftover chicken a la king and puff pastry squares, you can assemble them in a baking dish and reheat them together in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the dish with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dish is heated through and the pastry is crisp.
For a quick and easy lunch, reheat the chicken a la king and serve it over a slice of toasted bread or a split biscuit. This method allows you to enjoy the creamy, comforting flavors of the dish without the need for puff pastry.

Interesting Fact About Chicken a la King

The slow cooker chicken à la king recipe is a comforting and classic dish that originated in the United States. It was popularized in the 20th century and is known for its creamy texture and rich flavors. This dish is often served over puff pastry, adding a delightful crunch to the meal. It's a versatile recipe that can be customized with different vegetables and seasonings, making it a favorite for many home cooks.

Is Making Chicken a la King in a Slow Cooker Cost-Effective?

This slow cooker chicken a la king recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients such as chicken breasts, bell peppers, mushrooms, and frozen peas keeps the cost down. The addition of cream of chicken soup and cream cheese adds richness without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25. Overall, I would rate this recipe a solid 8 for its affordability and delicious outcome.

Is Slow Cooker Chicken a la King Healthy or Unhealthy?

This slow cooker chicken a la king recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes:

Lean protein from the chicken breasts
Nutrient-rich vegetables like onions, celery, bell peppers, and peas
Garlic, which has potential health benefits

However, there are some less healthy components:

Cream of chicken soup and cream cheese, which are high in sodium and saturated fat
Puff pastry, which is made with butter and refined flour, adding extra calories and fat

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the cream of chicken soup with a homemade version using low-sodium chicken broth, milk, and a small amount of flour or cornstarch for thickening
Use reduced-fat cream cheese or replace it with plain Greek yogurt for a lower-fat, protein-rich alternative
Serve the chicken mixture over whole-grain toast, quinoa, or brown rice instead of puff pastry to increase fiber and nutrients while reducing calories and fat
Increase the variety and amount of vegetables in the recipe, such as adding carrots, zucchini, or spinach for extra vitamins and minerals
Use a low-sodium seasoning blend instead of seasoned salt to reduce the overall sodium content

By making these adjustments, you can transform this comforting slow cooker meal into a more balanced and nutritious dish without sacrificing flavor.

Editor's Thoughts on This Slow Cooker Chicken a la King Recipe

This slow cooker chicken a la king recipe is a delightful and comforting dish. The combination of tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and earthy mushrooms creates a rich and flavorful base. The addition of cream cheese and peas adds a creamy and vibrant touch. The puff pastry topping provides a flaky and buttery contrast to the hearty chicken mixture. Overall, this recipe offers a satisfying and delicious meal that is perfect for a cozy dinner at home.

Enhance Your Slow Cooker Chicken a la King Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic, butter, and cream for the perfect side to complement the rich and savory slow cooker chicken a la king.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and finished with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest for a bright and refreshing side to accompany the hearty slow cooker chicken a la king.

Cranberry Walnut Spinach Salad: A vibrant and flavorful salad featuring fresh spinach, tart cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and a zesty vinaigrette dressing to provide a light and refreshing contrast to the creamy slow cooker chicken a la king.

Similar Recipes to Slow Cooker Chicken a la King

Creamy Beef Stroganoff: This classic comfort food is made with tender beef, onions, and mushrooms in a rich and creamy sauce, served over egg noodles.

Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp: This flavorful dish features succulent shrimp marinated in a zesty lemon garlic sauce, then grilled to perfection and served with a side of steamed vegetables.

Fresh Berry Salad with Citrus Dressing: This refreshing salad combines a variety of fresh berries with crisp mixed greens, drizzled with a tangy citrus dressing and topped with crunchy candied nuts.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Slow Cooker Chicken a la King

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a crowd-pleasing starter.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Whip up a creamy and cheesy dip featuring spinach and artichokes for a classic appetizer that never fails to impress. Serve with crispy tortilla chips or toasted bread for a delightful pre-dinner snack.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crispy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.

Why trust this Slow Cooker Chicken a la King Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful meal with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flaky puff pastry. The combination of fresh vegetables and savory seasonings ensures a burst of flavors in every bite. The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a rich and satisfying dish. Trust the expertise behind this recipe to deliver a comforting and delicious chicken a la king that will surely impress your taste buds.

Share your thoughts on the Slow Cooker Chicken a la King Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts in this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. They will add a rich and succulent flavor to the dish.

Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup with something else?

If you prefer not to use cream of chicken soup, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce made with chicken broth and a roux.

Can I prepare this recipe without a slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can make this recipe on the stovetop by simmering the ingredients in a large pot over low heat for a longer period of time, or you can use an oven-safe pot and cook it in the oven at a low temperature.

Can I make the puff pastry from scratch?

Yes, you can make puff pastry from scratch if you have the time and patience. However, using store-bought puff pastry is a convenient and delicious alternative.

Can I add other vegetables to the chicken a la king?

Of course! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding vegetables such as carrots, corn, or asparagus to suit your taste preferences. Just ensure they are added at the appropriate time to cook evenly.