Save to Pinterest A classic, creamy chicken dish with mushrooms, peppers, and peas, served warm over crisp buttered toast. Comforting and full of flavor, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual brunch.
The first time I made chicken à la king, it was a rainy Tuesday night when comfort food felt essential. The creamy sauce and warm toast made it instantly soothing, and everyone came back for seconds. Now it's a family favorite that never fails to please.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced (about 300 g)
- Vegetables: 1 cup mushrooms, sliced, 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced, 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed, 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Sauce: 3 tbsp unsalted butter, 3 tbsp all-purpose flour, 2 cups whole milk, 1/2 cup chicken broth, 1/4 cup heavy cream, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp paprika, 1/4 tsp dried thyme
- Toast: 4 slices hearty white or whole wheat bread, 2 tbsp butter (for toasting)
- Garnish (optional): 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tbsp butter. Add the onion, mushrooms, and bell pepper. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Make Roux:
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
- Add Liquids:
- Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring until smooth and thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Mix Chicken and Seasonings:
- Add the diced chicken, peas, heavy cream, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly thickened.
- Prepare Toast:
- Meanwhile, toast the bread slices and spread each with a little butter.
- Serve:
- Place a slice of toast on each plate and spoon the chicken à la king generously over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Save to Pinterest My daughter always asks for extra toast with her chicken à la king, and it's become a cozy dish we share together. The warm, creamy sauce makes every bite feel like a hug, especially on chilly evenings.
Serving Suggestions
Try serving chicken à la king over puff pastry shells, steamed rice, or fluffy biscuits for extra comfort. Pair with a crisp green salad or a glass of Chardonnay for a simple yet elegant meal.
Allergen & Nutrition
This dish contains chicken, wheat, and milk. Be sure to check your bread and broth labels. Per serving: 420 calories, 20 g fat, 32 g carbohydrates, 28 g protein.
Leftovers & Storage
Leftover chicken à la king can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy every spoonful of this classic comfort food. Chicken à la king is ideal for those busy evenings when you crave something both hearty and simple.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of chicken works best?
Using cooked, diced chicken breast provides a tender texture that blends well with the creamy sauce. Rotisserie chicken also works well for convenience.
- → Can I substitute the bread?
Yes, try serving over puff pastry shells, rice, or biscuits as variations to the traditional toasted bread base.
- → How do I achieve the creamy sauce consistency?
Creating a roux with butter and flour, then gradually whisking in milk and broth helps thicken the sauce while keeping it smooth and velvety.
- → What seasonings enhance the flavor?
Paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper add warmth and depth, balancing the creamy texture with subtle spice and herb notes.
- → Is this dish suitable for quick meals?
Yes, with a total time around 40 minutes and simple steps, it’s convenient for quick weeknight dinners or casual brunches.