Supper a La King: A Culinary Flashback

I remember Supper a La King from childhood potlucks – a creamy, comforting dish always brought by someone’s grandmother. It was never the most visually stunning offering, nestled among vibrant salads and meticulously decorated cakes, but it had a certain allure. The rich, savory aroma would waft across the room, and without fail, my plate would always include a generous helping. It was pure, unadulterated comfort food, a reminder of simpler times and warm, family gatherings. It’s a dish that transcends generations, and I’m thrilled to share my take on this classic.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Dietary Type: Not specified, contains dairy

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter or 2 tablespoons margarine
• ½ cup diced green pepper
• ⅓ cup chopped onion
• 1 (10 ¾ ounce) can Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup
• ¾ cup milk
• 2 cups cubed cooked chicken breasts
• ¾ cup shredded American cheese
• ¼ cup diced pimento
• ⅛ teaspoon pepper

Equipment Needed

• 2-quart microwave-safe casserole dish
• Microwave oven
• Lid for casserole dish
• Spoon for stirring

Instructions

1. In a 2-quart microwave-safe casserole dish, combine the butter (or margarine), diced green pepper, and chopped onion.

2. Cover the dish with a lid and microwave on HIGH for 2 minutes, or until the vegetables become tender. This softens the vegetables and begins to release their flavors. Keep a close eye on them; microwave power can vary.

3. Remove the lid and stir in the can of Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup and the milk. Blend well to ensure a smooth, creamy base. The soup provides the richness and the milk thins it to the perfect consistency.

4. Add the cubed cooked chicken breasts, shredded American cheese, diced pimento, and pepper. Stir gently to incorporate all ingredients evenly into the sauce.

5. Cover the casserole dish with the lid again and microwave on HIGH for 7 minutes, or until the mixture is heated through. Be sure to stir occasionally during this time to prevent the cheese from sticking and ensure even heating. The cheese should be melted and the chicken piping hot.

6. Serve hot over shredded zucchini, pasta or egg noodles, buttermilk biscuits, or hot baked potatoes. Each option offers a different textural and flavor contrast, so choose your favorite!

7. Note regarding zucchini: You may steam your zucchini or not. If you choose not to steam it, dry it well with paper towels after shredding, or your dish may become watery. This step is crucial to prevent the final dish from being too liquid.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overcook the vegetables: Microwaving for just 2 minutes ensures they’re tender but still retain some texture. Overcooked vegetables become mushy and detract from the overall dish.
• Use high-quality cheese: While American cheese is called for in this recipe, using a good-quality brand will enhance the flavor and melt more smoothly. You can also experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack.
• Pre-cooked chicken is key: This recipe is all about convenience, so using pre-cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!) saves time. Just be sure to cut it into even cubes for uniform heating.
• Adjust seasonings to taste: While the recipe calls for a pinch of pepper, feel free to add other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
• Prevent sticking: Greasing the casserole dish lightly before adding the ingredients can prevent the cheese from sticking and making clean-up easier.
• Make Ahead: The mixture can be prepared ahead of time, stored in the refrigerator, and then heated up in the microwave just before serving.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Supper a La King is best served immediately while it’s hot and creamy. Ladle generous portions over your choice of base – zucchini, pasta, biscuits, or potatoes. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of paprika can add a pop of color to the presentation.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency.

Freezing is not recommended, as the sauce may separate upon thawing and the texture of the chicken can become rubbery.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	199.1 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	N/A	52%
Total Fat	11.6 g	17%
Saturated Fat	5 g	25%
Cholesterol	57.7 mg	19%
Sodium	440.3 mg	18%
Total Carbohydrate	6.9 g	2%
Dietary Fiber	0.5 g	2%
Sugars	1.2 g	4%
Protein	16.4 g	32%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on ingredient substitutions and specific brands used.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian La King: Substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or a combination of vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk (almond, soy, or oat), and a dairy-free cream of chicken soup alternative. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy twist.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, Gruyere, or pepper jack to customize the flavor profile.
• Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives for added aroma and flavor complexity.
• Wine Infusion: Add a tablespoon or two of sherry wine.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. Thaw them slightly before adding them to the casserole dish to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.

Q: Can I make this recipe without a microwave?
A: Absolutely! Sauté the vegetables in a saucepan on the stovetop until tender. Then, stir in the remaining ingredients and simmer until heated through and the cheese is melted.

Q: Can I use a different type of soup instead of cream of chicken?
A: While cream of chicken soup provides the traditional flavor, you can experiment with other cream-based soups like cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a different taste.

Q: What can I serve this with besides zucchini, pasta, biscuits, or potatoes?
A: This dish is also delicious served over rice, polenta, or even toasted bread.

Q: Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
A: Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn to add more nutrients and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Supper a La King is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary hug, a comforting embrace in a bowl. It’s a testament to the fact that sometimes the simplest dishes are the most satisfying. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and substitutions to make it your own. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a nostalgic trip down memory lane, I encourage you to give this classic recipe a try. Share your creations and feedback – I’d love to hear how you’ve made it your own! Perhaps pair it with a crisp green salad or a glass of chilled white wine for a complete and satisfying meal.