Swanson Chicken à la King

Name: Swanson Chicken à la King
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup / 150 g); 1 red bell pepper, diced (about 1 cup / 150 g); 1 green bell pepper, diced (about 1 cup / 150 g); 8 oz (225 g) white mushrooms, sliced; 3 tbsp (45 g) unsalted butter; 3 tbsp (25 g) all-purpose flour; 2 cups (480 mL) chicken broth; 1 cup (240 mL) heavy cream; 1/2 cup (120 mL) whole milk; 1/2 tsp (2.5 g) salt, or to taste; 1/4 tsp (1 g) black pepper; 1/4 tsp (1 g) paprika (optional, for added flavor); Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Craving a cozy, homemade meal? My grandmother’s Swanson chicken à la king recipe is a creamy, dreamy dish with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and sweet bell peppers. Perfect over rice or pasta—ready in just 35 minutes!

March 12, 2025
by Meet Mei Tanaka (田中芽衣).

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Table of Contents

Why Swanson Chicken à la King is the Ultimate Comfort Food

You know those days when you just need something warm, creamy, and downright comforting? yeah, me too. that’s exactly why i fell in love with swanson chicken à la king .

It’s like a hug in a bowl—tender chicken, sweet bell peppers, earthy mushrooms, and a sauce so creamy it’ll make you forget all about your bad day.

Honestly, this dish is a lifesaver on busy weeknights or when you’re craving something nostalgic but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

A Little History Behind the Dish

So, where did this classic chicken à la king come from? rumor has it, it was created in the late 1800s at a fancy new york hotel.

Fancy, right? but don’t worry, this recipe is anything but pretentious. it’s simple, hearty, and totally approachable. the swanson version we’re talking about here takes that old-school charm and makes it even easier for home cooks like you and me.

Why This Recipe Works

Let’s be real—life’s too short for complicated recipes. that’s why this easy chicken à la king recipe is a winner.

It’s ready in about 35 minutes, uses ingredients you probably already have, and tastes like you spent all day cooking.

Plus, it’s super versatile. serve it over rice, pasta, or even puff pastry for a fancy touch. oh, and did i mention it’s perfect for leftovers?

What Makes It Special

What sets this creamy chicken à la king apart is the sauce. it’s rich, velvety, and just the right amount of indulgent.

The secret? a simple roux made with butter and flour, plus a splash of heavy cream. and don’t even get me started on the veggies—sweet bell peppers and earthy mushrooms add so much flavor and texture.

It’s like a party in your mouth.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just feeding your family on a tuesday night, this dish fits the bill.

It’s fancy enough to impress guests but easy enough to whip up after a long day. and if you’re looking for a comfort food chicken recipe that’s both satisfying and quick, this is it.

Let’s Talk Ingredients

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s chat about what you’ll need. the star of the show is, of course, the chicken.

I like using boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they’re easy to work with, but thighs work too if you prefer a richer flavor.

Then there’s the veggies—onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms. they add color, flavor, and a little bit of nutrition.

For the sauce, you’ll need butter, flour, chicken broth, heavy cream, and a splash of milk. That’s it! No fancy ingredients, no weird techniques. Just good, honest cooking.

Ready to Get Cooking?

Alright, now that you know why this swanson chicken à la king is such a game-changer, let’s get into the nitty-gritty.

Grab your skillet, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some magic happen. trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

Next up: the full ingredient list and step-by-step instructions. Let’s do this!

Essential Ingredients Guide for Swanson Chicken à la King

Alright, let’s talk about the must-haves for making the creamy chicken à la king of your dreams. whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, having the right ingredients is key to nailing this comfort food classic .

Trust me, i’ve had my fair share of kitchen fails, and it always comes down to quality and prep. so, let’s break it down!

Premium Core Components

First things first, let’s talk about the star players in this dish. you’ll need 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts —go for organic if you can, because it really makes a difference in flavor.

For the veggies, grab 1 medium yellow onion , 1 red bell pepper , 1 green bell pepper , and 8 oz of white mushrooms .

These add that sweet, earthy, and slightly tangy vibe that makes this dish so darn good.

Now, for the sauce, you’ll need 3 tbsp of unsalted butter , 3 tbsp of all-purpose flour (or gluten-free if that’s your jam), 2 cups of chicken broth , 1 cup of heavy cream , and 1/2 cup of whole milk .

Oh, and don’t forget the seasonings: salt , black pepper , and a pinch of paprika for that extra oomph.

Storage tip: keep your chicken in the fridge until you’re ready to cook, and store your veggies in the crisper drawer.

Freshness is everything here, so don’t let those bell peppers get soggy!

Signature Seasoning Blend

Here’s where the magic happens. the seasoning blend for this classic chicken à la king is simple but oh-so-effective. start with salt and pepper —basic, but essential.

Then, add a pinch of paprika for a subtle smoky flavor. if you’re feeling adventurous, throw in a dash of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

For herbs, fresh parsley is my go-to garnish. it adds a pop of color and a fresh, slightly peppery taste that balances the richness of the sauce.

If you don’t have parsley, chives or thyme work great too.

Smart Substitutions

Okay, let’s be real—sometimes you’re out of an ingredient, or maybe you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions. No worries, I’ve got you covered.

Chicken broth substitute: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Heavy cream substitute: Swap it out for half-and-half or even whole milk if you’re watching calories.
Mushroom substitute: Not a fan? Try zucchini or just skip them altogether.
Gluten-free option: Use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening the sauce.

And hey, if you’re feeling fancy, you can even swap the chicken for shrimp or lobster . Yes, I’ve tried it, and yes, it’s amazing.

Kitchen Equipment Essentials

You don’t need a ton of fancy gadgets to make this dish, but here’s what I recommend:

A large skillet or sauté pan (non-stick is a lifesaver).
A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring.
A whisk for making that silky-smooth sauce.
Measuring cups and spoons —because eyeballing it can lead to disaster (trust me, I’ve been there).

If you’re short on time, a food processor can help chop those veggies in a flash. And for storage, grab some airtight containers if you’re planning to make this ahead of time.

Why This Recipe Works

Honestly, what i love most about this easy chicken à la king recipe is how versatile it is. you can serve it over rice , pasta , or even puff pastry for a fancy twist.

It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy sunday meal. plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or veggies.

One time, i made this for a potluck, and everyone thought i’d spent hours in the kitchen. little did they know, it only took me about *35 minutes * from start to finish.

The secret? prepping your ingredients ahead of time. chop those veggies, measure out your seasonings, and you’re golden.

Ready to Cook?

Now that you’ve got your ingredients and equipment sorted, it’s time to dive into the step-by-step instructions . trust me, once you taste that creamy chicken à la king sauce with tender chicken and sweet bell peppers, you’ll be hooked.

Let’s get cooking!

Let’s Talk About Swanson Chicken à la King: A Creamy Comfort Food Classic

Oh my gosh, if you’re looking for a dish that screams comfort food while still being super easy to make, you’ve got to try this swanson chicken à la king recipe.

Honestly, it’s one of those meals that feels fancy but is totally doable on a busy weeknight. you know, the kind of dish that makes you feel like a pro in the kitchen without all the stress.

Essential Prep Steps: Get Your Act Together

First things first, let’s talk about mise en place . that’s just a fancy way of saying get your stuff ready .

Chop your veggies—onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms—and cut your chicken into bite-sized pieces. trust me, having everything prepped before you start cooking is a game-changer.

Time management is key here. this recipe takes about *35 minutes total *, so it’s perfect for when you’re short on time but still want something hearty.

Keep your workspace organized, and don’t forget safety basics like washing your hands and keeping raw chicken away from other ingredients.

Step-by-Step Process: Let’s Get Cooking

Cook the chicken: heat up some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat . toss in the chicken and cook until it’s lightly browned and cooked through—about 5- 7 * minutes *.

Set it aside.
Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, toss in your onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Cook until they’re soft and fragrant—another *5 minutes * or so.
Make the sauce: melt some butter in the skillet, then whisk in flour to make a roux. cook it for 1- 2 * minutes * until it’s golden.

Slowly whisk in chicken broth, heavy cream, and milk. keep stirring until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
Combine and simmer: add the chicken back to the skillet and let everything simmer together for 5- 7 * minutes *.

This is where the magic happens—the flavors meld, and the sauce gets even creamier.
Serve It Up: Garnish with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy, and serve it over rice, pasta, or even toast.

Expert Techniques: Tips to Nail This Recipe

Here’s the thing—making a creamy chicken dish like this can feel intimidating, but it’s really not. the key is in the roux .

Don’t rush it! let the flour and butter cook for a minute or two to get rid of that raw flour taste.

Also, keep an eye on your sauce consistency. if it’s too thick, add a splash of broth or milk. too thin? let it simmer a bit longer or whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water).

Success Strategies: Avoid These Common Mistakes

One mistake I’ve made before is overcooking the chicken. You want it tender, not rubbery. Cook it just until it’s no longer pink inside, then set it aside.

Another tip? don’t skip the paprika . it adds a subtle depth of flavor that takes this dish to the next level.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some cayenne pepper or jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Why This Recipe Works

What i love about this swanson chicken à la king is how versatile it is. you can serve it over rice, pasta, or even puff pastry for a fancy twist.

It’s also a great make-ahead dish—just reheat it gently on the stovetop when you’re ready to eat.

Plus, it’s packed with flavor from the sweet bell peppers, earthy mushrooms, and creamy sauce. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is still balanced with veggies and protein.

Wrapping It Up

So, there you have it—a classic swanson chicken à la king recipe that’s easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, this dish is a winner.

Ready to give it a try? let me know how it turns out! and if you’re curious about more variations or serving ideas, stick around for the next section where i’ll dive into even more tips and tricks.

Pro Tips & Secrets for the Perfect Swanson Chicken à la King

Let’s be real—cooking is all about the little tricks that make a dish shine. when it comes to swanson chicken à la king , i’ve learned a few things over the years that’ll take your meal from good to oh-my-gosh-this-is-amazing .

First, season your chicken before cooking. a pinch of salt and pepper goes a long way. and if you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle a little paprika or cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.

Trust me, it’s a game-changer.

Second, don’t rush the roux . that buttery, floury base for the sauce? let it cook for a minute or two until it’s golden.

It adds a nutty flavor that makes the sauce next-level delicious.

Finally, if you’re short on time, prep your veggies ahead . dice those bell peppers and slice the mushrooms the night before.

It’ll save you precious minutes when you’re hungry and ready to eat.

Perfect Presentation: Make It Instagram-Worthy

We eat with our eyes first, right? So, let’s talk about plating your Swanson Chicken à la King like a pro.

Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or buttery egg noodles for that classic comfort food vibe. or, if you’re feeling fancy, scoop it into puff pastry shells for a fancy twist.

Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of paprika for a pop of color. and don’t forget the sweet bell peppers and earthy mushrooms —they add such a beautiful contrast to the creamy sauce.

Pro tip: Use a white or light-colored plate to make the dish really stand out. It’s all about that visual appeal , baby!

Storage & Make-Ahead: Because Life Happens

Let’s face it—sometimes you just need to cook ahead. The good news? Swanson Chicken à la King is a great make-ahead dish.

Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days . when you’re ready to eat, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat.

Add a splash of chicken broth or milk if the sauce thickens too much.

Freezing? Sure thing! Just skip the heavy cream and add it fresh when reheating. This keeps the texture smooth and creamy.

Creative Variations: Make It Your Own

One of the best things about Swanson Chicken à la King is how versatile it is. Want to mix it up? Here are some ideas:

Seafood Lovers : Swap the chicken for shrimp or lobster . It’s like a fancy surf-and-turf moment.
Vegetarian Twist : Use tofu or a plant-based chicken substitute. Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth , and you’re golden.
Spicy Kick : Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a little heat.

And hey, if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding zucchini or roasted asparagus for extra veggies. The possibilities are endless!

Complete Nutrition Guide: Eat Well, Feel Great

Let’s talk nutrition. A serving of Swanson Chicken à la King packs a good amount of protein from the tender chicken and a dose of vitamins from the colorful veggies .

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Calories : Around 450 per serving
Protein : 35g (great for muscle repair!)
Carbs : 15g (perfect for energy)
Fat : 28g (hello, creamy goodness!)

For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk . It’s still creamy but cuts down on calories.

Expert FAQ Solutions: Your Questions, Answered

Got questions? I’ve got answers.

Q: Can I use frozen veggies?
A: Absolutely! Just thaw them first to avoid extra water in the sauce.

Q: Why is my sauce too thin?
A: Simmer it longer, or whisk in a slurry of cornstarch and water.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yep! Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for the roux.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: On the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth or milk to keep it creamy.

Final Thoughts: Comfort Food at Its Best

At the end of the day, swanson chicken à la king is all about comfort. it’s creamy, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this dish never disappoints.

So, grab your skillet, whip up that creamy chicken à la king , and enjoy every bite. and hey, don’t forget to share it with someone you love—because good food is always better together.

Happy cooking, friends! 🥄