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.
Chicken à la King has always been a favorite in my home. The mix of tender chicken and savory sauce over crispy toast brings back memories of cozy family dinners around the table.
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 the 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 the roux:
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
- Create the sauce:
- Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring until smooth and thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Simmer with chicken:
- 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.
- Toast the bread:
- Meanwhile, toast the bread slices and spread each with a little butter.
- Serve:
- To 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 This dish is often requested by my kids, especially on chilly evenings. Sharing it together reminds us of my grandmother who used to make it every Sunday.
Serving Suggestions
You can serve chicken à la King over puff pastry shells, rice, biscuits, or even mashed potatoes. Pairing with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay elevates the meal.
Nutrition Facts
Each serving provides about 420 calories, 20 g total fat, 32 g carbohydrates, and 28 g protein, making it hearty and satisfying.
Required Tools
All you need is a large skillet, whisk, knife and cutting board, toaster or oven, and measuring cups and spoons for perfect results.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this delicious comfort dish straight from your own kitchen. Savor every creamy bite and make it your new go-to for easy family meals.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of chicken works best?
Cooked chicken breast is ideal, but rotisserie or leftover roast chicken adds flavor and convenience.
- → Can I substitute mushrooms or peppers?
Yes, use other veggies like celery or carrots if preferred for added texture or different taste.
- → What can I serve this dish over?
Toast is classic, but puff pastry shells, rice, or biscuits also pair well with the creamy mixture.
- → How do I make the sauce thicker?
Add a touch more flour during the roux step or simmer longer. Heavy cream also boosts richness and thickness.
- → Is fresh parsley necessary for garnish?
Fresh parsley adds color and freshness but can be omitted or replaced with chives or green onions.
- → Can I make it ahead of time?
Prepare the chicken mixture in advance and gently reheat before serving over freshly toasted bread.