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 remember my mom making chicken à la king on busy weeknights when we wanted something cozy but simple. Toasting the bread made every bite rich and satisfying, and it became a frequent request in our home.
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.
- Toast 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 One night, I let my kids top their own toast, and they each added extra peas. It became a little tradition to sprinkle on fresh parsley together before dinner.
Serving & Pairing Ideas
Serve chicken à la king over toast, biscuits, rice, or even puff pastry shells. Pair with a green salad or steamed veggies and a crisp white wine like Chardonnay for a complete meal.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much.
Allergen & Nutrition Information
This recipe contains wheat (bread, flour), milk (butter, milk, cream), and chicken. Each serving is about 420 calories, with 20 g fat, 32 g carbohydrates, and 28 g protein. Double-check bread and broth labels if allergies are a concern.
Save This classic dish is quick to assemble and sure to bring comfort to your table. Enjoy it on chilly evenings or anytime you need a satisfying homemade meal.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken for this dish?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut that saves cooking time and adds flavor.
- → What type of bread works best for serving?
Hearty white or whole wheat bread toasted with butter provides a crisp and flavorful base.
- → How can I make the sauce richer?
Replacing some milk with additional heavy cream enhances the sauce's richness and creaminess.
- → Can I substitute other vegetables in this dish?
Yes, feel free to add or swap vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms to suit your taste.
- → Is this dish suitable for batch cooking?
Absolutely, it reheats well and can be prepared ahead for quick meals throughout the week.