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 tasted chicken à la king when my grandmother made it for a Sunday lunch. The combination of savory chicken, tender vegetables, and creamy sauce poured generously over buttery toast has remained my go-to for busy evenings and cozy family meals.
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.
- Simmer Sauce:
- 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 This recipe has brought our family together around the table after long days. The kids love the creamy sauce and there's always a happy scramble to see who gets the last spoonful.
Make It Your Way
You can swap toast for puff pastry rice or biscuits. For extra flavor add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. White wine such as Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce.
Easy Storage
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop adding a splash of milk as needed.
Save This comforting chicken à la king is perfect for both quick meals and brunch gatherings. The flavor and ease make it a family favorite.
Recipe FAQs
- → What cuts of chicken work best for this dish?
Cooked chicken breast, diced, provides tender, lean meat that blends well with the creamy sauce, but leftover rotisserie chicken also works great for convenience.
- → Can I use different vegetables in the sauce?
Yes, feel free to add or substitute vegetables like peas, bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions to suit your taste and seasonality.
- → How is the sauce thickened and kept creamy?
A classic roux of butter and flour forms the base, to which milk and broth are whisked in, creating a smooth sauce that is finished with heavy cream for richness.
- → Is it necessary to toast the bread before serving?
Toasting enhances the bread’s texture and flavor, providing a crisp base that holds up well under the creamy chicken topping.
- → What herbs or spices complement this dish?
Paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper add subtle warmth and earthiness, while fresh parsley garnish brings bright, fresh notes.