Chicken Pot Pie Vs Chicken A La King: Which One Is More Popular?
What To Know
- The chicken is added to the sauce, and the mixture is poured into a pie pan.
- Chicken à la king is also a calorie-dense dish, but it is lower in fat than chicken pot pie.
- Whether you prefer the rustic charm of chicken pot pie or the elegant smoothness of chicken à la king, there is no denying the appeal of these beloved dishes.
Chicken pot pie and chicken à la king are two beloved American comfort foods that have been gracing dinner tables for generations. Both dishes feature tender chicken in a creamy sauce, but their similarities end there. Let’s delve into the differences between these culinary delights and help you decide which one reigns supreme.
Origins and History
Chicken pot pie traces its roots to medieval England, where it was known as “chicken in crust.” The dish gained popularity in the United States during the 18th century, becoming a staple in American kitchens.
Chicken à la king, on the other hand, has a more recent origin. It was created in the 1890s by a chef at the New York City restaurant Delmonico‘s. The dish was named after William Rufus King, a former Vice President of the United States.
Ingredients
Chicken Pot Pie:
- Chicken
- Vegetables (typically carrots, celery, onions)
- Flour
- Butter
- Milk or cream
- Pie crust
Chicken à la King:
- Chicken
- Mushrooms
- Bell peppers
- Onions
- Cream sauce
- Sherry
Preparation
Chicken pot pie is typically made with a flaky pie crust that encloses the creamy filling. The filling is prepared by sautéing vegetables in butter, then adding flour to create a roux. Milk or cream is gradually whisked in to create a smooth sauce. The chicken is added to the sauce, and the mixture is poured into a pie pan. The crust is then placed on top and crimped around the edges. The pie is baked until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Chicken à la king is prepared by sautéing chicken, mushrooms, peppers, and onions in butter. A cream sauce is made by melting butter, adding flour, and gradually whisking in milk or cream. The sherry is added for flavor. The chicken mixture is added to the cream sauce and simmered until heated through.
Texture and Flavor
Chicken pot pie has a hearty, rustic texture thanks to the flakey crust and chunky vegetables. The filling is creamy and flavorful, with a subtle blend of herbs and spices.
Chicken à la king has a smoother, more delicate texture. The cream sauce is velvety, and the chicken and vegetables are tender and moist. The flavor is rich and savory, with a hint of sweetness from the sherry.
Serving and Accompaniments
Chicken pot pie is typically served as a main course, often accompanied by a side salad or mashed potatoes.
Chicken à la king can be served as a main course or as an appetizer. It pairs well with rice, pasta, or toast.
Nutritional Value
Chicken pot pie is a hearty meal that is relatively high in calories and fat. However, it also provides a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins.
Chicken à la king is also a calorie-dense dish, but it is lower in fat than chicken pot pie. It is a good source of protein and vitamins, but it is also high in sodium.
Which One to Choose?
The choice between chicken pot pie and chicken à la king depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a hearty, rustic dish, chicken pot pie is a great choice. If you prefer a smoother, more delicate dish, chicken à la king is the way to go.
Variations
Both chicken pot pie and chicken à la king have numerous variations. Some popular variations of chicken pot pie include:
- Shepherd’s pie (made with ground lamb or beef)
- Tuna pot pie
- Vegetable pot pie
Some popular variations of chicken à la king include:
- Turkey à la king
- Shrimp à la king
- Lobster à la king
Recommendations: The Ultimate Comfort Food Battle
Chicken pot pie and chicken à la king are both classic comfort foods that offer a unique culinary experience. Whether you prefer the rustic charm of chicken pot pie or the elegant smoothness of chicken à la king, there is no denying the appeal of these beloved dishes.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I make chicken pot pie or chicken à la king ahead of time?
A: Yes, both dishes can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: What are some substitutions I can make in chicken pot pie or chicken à la king?
A: In chicken pot pie, you can substitute sweet potatoes for carrots, or peas for celery. In chicken à la king, you can substitute green bell peppers for red bell peppers, or mushrooms for onions.
Q: Can I freeze chicken pot pie or chicken à la king?
A: Yes, you can freeze both dishes. Place them in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
