Save 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 as a nostalgic nod to midweek family dinners when I was growing up. The warm, creamy sauce and crisp toast always brought everyone to the table in minutes, and now it is one of my favorites to make after a long day.
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.
- Form 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.
- Simmer chicken mixture:
- 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:
- 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 This dish is a frequent request from my family, especially on chilly nights. My children love helping with the toasting, and everyone enjoys a generous serving with plenty of sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken à la King is also fantastic over puff pastry shells, rice, or biscuits for a different presentation. Pair with a side salad or steamed green beans for a balanced meal.
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (bread, flour), Milk (butter, milk, cream), Possible Egg (if bread contains egg), Chicken. Double-check ingredients for any hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 420, Total Fat 20 g, Carbohydrates 32 g, Protein 28 g.
Save This chicken à la king brings warmth to every table and leftovers taste even better the next day. Enjoy this timeless favorite anytime you crave comfort.
Recipe Help & FAQs
- → What type of bread works best for serving?
Hearty white or whole wheat bread slices toasted with butter provide a sturdy, flavorful base that complements the creamy chicken and vegetables.
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken for this dish?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut that saves time without sacrificing flavor or texture.
- → How is the sauce thickened?
A roux made from butter and all-purpose flour is cooked briefly before gradually whisking in milk and chicken broth to create a smooth, thickened sauce.
- → Are there suggested variations for serving?
Besides toast, this dish can be enjoyed over puff pastry shells, rice, or biscuits for variety.
- → What herbs and spices are included?
Seasonings include paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper, which add depth and a subtle aromatic quality to the creamy sauce.