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 often make this Chicken à la King when we need comfort food fast. The creamy sauce and tender chicken make it a favorite, especially when served over buttery toast.
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.
- Add liquids:
- Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring until smooth and thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Simmer:
- 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 bread:
- 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 always look forward to Chicken à la King nights. It is one of those recipes everyone wants seconds of, and we love gathering around the table with a warm pan of this classic meal.
Serving Suggestions
This dish also tastes great over puff pastry shells, rice, or biscuits. Pairing it with a crisp salad or steamed vegetables adds freshness to the meal.
Allergen & Nutritional Information
Contains: Wheat, Milk, Chicken. Check bread for possible egg if allergies are a concern. Each serving has about 420 calories, 20 g fat, 32 g carbohydrates, and 28 g protein.
Required Tools
Large skillet, whisk, knife and cutting board, toaster or oven, measuring cups and spoons
Pin it Enjoy this creamy classic hot over your favorite toast or pastry. A comforting meal ready in under an hour!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What vegetables complement this chicken dish?
Mushrooms, red bell peppers, peas, and onions create a flavorful and colorful mix.
- → How is the creamy sauce prepared?
A roux is formed by cooking butter and flour, then milk and broth are whisked in to create a smooth, thickened base.
- → Can this dish be served with alternatives to toast?
Yes, it pairs well with puff pastry shells, rice, or biscuits for variety.
- → What seasoning enhances the flavor?
Salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme add a balanced and aromatic touch.
- → What's a quick way to prepare the chicken component?
Using cooked, diced rotisserie chicken saves time without sacrificing taste.