Low Carb Chicken Ala King is a comforting dish that brings a delightful twist to a classic favorite. This recipe showcases tender chicken combined with vibrant vegetables, all enveloped in a creamy, savory sauce, but without the guilt of traditional high-carb ingredients. Perfect for dinner or meal prep, this dish is a wholesome, satisfying option for those following a low-carb lifestyle.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Readers will fall in love with this low carb chicken ala king recipe for its robust flavor profile and creamy texture, reminiscent of the classic dish but without the extra carbs. It’s incredibly easy to whip up on a busy weeknight, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that fits perfectly into low-carb or keto diets, making it a great choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying comforting flavors.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and peas add vibrant color and flavor. Frozen vegetables can also work well if you’re in a pinch.
- Thicken with Cream Cheese: For an ultra-creamy sauce, consider incorporating softened cream cheese into the sauce for added richness without excess carbs.
- Cook Your Chicken Right: Sear your chicken until golden brown for a depth of flavor, and don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking.
- Seasoning is Key: Use a variety of herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, and fresh parsley for a burst of flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
- Prep Your Veggies: Chop your vegetables the night before and store them in the fridge to save time on cooking day.
- Cook the Chicken Ahead: You can cook and shred the chicken a day in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the fridge to expedite the final cooking process.
- Store Leftover Sauce: The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days; just reheat gently before combining with chicken.
Recipe Variations
- Protein Swaps: Substitute the chicken with turkey or even shrimp for a different flavor and texture.
- Vegetable Variations: Try adding mushrooms or spinach for an earthy flavor, or swap the peas for broccoli or asparagus.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
How to Serve
Serve your low carb chicken ala king over a bed of cauliflower rice for a truly satisfying meal. You can also use zucchini noodles or serve it in lettuce wraps for a fun low-carb twist. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and serve immediately.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a crisp white wine like Chardonnay complements the creaminess of the dish well. Alternatively, a refreshing iced tea or a light sparkling water can be delightful. As for sides, consider a simple mixed green salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the chicken ala king.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened.
Equipment Needed
- A large skillet or sauté pan for cooking the chicken and sauce.
- A cutting board and knife for chopping vegetables.
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
- Optional: A food processor for quickly chopping veggies.
Dietary Adaptations
For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. To make it vegan, use plant-based protein like tofu or seitan in place of chicken and ensure all sauces and broths are vegan-friendly.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the spring, consider adding fresh asparagus and peas for a seasonal touch. During the fall and winter, using root vegetables like carrots and parsnips will add heartiness to the dish.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but thaw it beforehand for even cooking.
- What can I substitute for heavy cream? You can use half-and-half, coconut milk, or a low-carb cream alternative.
- What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating.
How To Make low carb chicken ala king recipe
Low Carb Chicken Ala King
Low Carb Chicken Ala King is a comforting dish that brings a delightful twist to a classic favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (red, green, or yellow)
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup heavy cream or alternative
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the cubed chicken and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sauté until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms (if using). Sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Lower the heat to medium and return the chicken to the skillet. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until well combined.
- Cook for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 518Total Fat 33gSaturated Fat 16gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 14gCholesterol 164mgSodium 207mgCarbohydrates 16gFiber 4gSugar 7gProtein 41g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making this low carb chicken ala king is a delightful way to enjoy a classic dish without the high carbs. With its creamy texture, flavorful ingredients, and ease of preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is versatile and satisfying. Enjoy every comforting bite!