Pin It 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.
I first made chicken à la king on a rainy weeknight when everyone was craving something cozy. The rich sauce, tender chicken, and crispy toast made it an instant family favorite.
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
- Cook 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.
- Form Roux:
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
- Make Sauce:
- Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring until smooth and thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add Chicken & Season:
- 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.
Pin It My kids love helping spread butter on the toast, and everyone enjoys building their plate together. This recipe always brings us around the table for warm conversation.
Required Tools
Large skillet, whisk, knife and cutting board, toaster or oven, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (bread, flour), Milk (butter, milk, cream), Possible Egg (if bread contains egg), Chicken. Always check ingredients for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 420, Total Fat: 20 g, Carbohydrates: 32 g, Protein: 28 g per serving
Pin It Serve right away for best flavor and texture. This chicken à la king is pure comfort in every bite.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of chicken is best for this dish?
Cooked, diced chicken breast or rotisserie chicken works well, providing tender meat that absorbs flavors nicely.
- → Can I substitute any vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add or swap vegetables like green beans or carrots for variety while maintaining the dish's texture and flavor.
- → How do I achieve the creamy sauce consistency?
Make a roux by cooking butter and flour, then gradually whisk in milk and broth until smooth and thickened to creamy perfection.
- → What type of bread is recommended for serving?
Hearty white or whole wheat bread toasted with butter provides a crisp base that complements the creamy chicken mixture.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy chicken mixture in advance and reheat gently before plating over fresh toast.