CHICKEN A LA KING

Steps:

• Place a large, deep-sided skillet over medium-high heat with EVOO, 2 turns of the pan. Add the celery, onions, carrots and bay leaf and season with a little salt and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 7 to 8 minutes. Add the red bell pepper and continue to cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Scoot the veggies over to the sides and add the butter to the center of the skillet. Once the butter has melted, add the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Whisk in the white wine, chicken stock and cream. Bring the liquids up to a simmer, then add the chicken pieces. Bring back up to a simmer and add the asparagus. Simmer the mixture until the chicken is cooked through and the asparagus is tender, about 10 to 12 minutes more. Cool and store for a make-ahead meal. Reheat over medium heat.
• To serve: Add the peas and tarragon to the a la King mixture and stir to combine. Adjust seasoning.
• Preheat the oven according to package directions for the puff-pastry shells. Arrange the shells on a nonstick baking sheet, then place in oven. Bake until golden, remove from oven and let cool.
• Serve mixture filling and spilling over the pastry cups, 2 per person. Garnish each dish with noodles and chives.