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 the first time I made Chicken à la King for my family, the savory smell immediately drew everyone into the kitchen. It quickly became a favorite during busy weeks because it's satisfying yet quick to put together.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced (about 300 g)
- Mushrooms: 1 cup, sliced
- Red bell pepper: 1/2 cup, diced
- Frozen peas: 1/2 cup, thawed
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Unsalted butter: 3 tbsp (plus 2 tbsp for toasting bread)
- All-purpose flour: 3 tbsp
- Whole milk: 2 cups
- Chicken broth: 1/2 cup
- Heavy cream: 1/4 cup
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Paprika: 1/4 tsp
- Dried thyme: 1/4 tsp
- Bread: 4 slices hearty white or whole wheat bread
- Fresh parsley (optional): 2 tbsp, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté vegetables:
- Melt 3 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, mushrooms, and bell pepper. Cook for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
- Make roux:
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until mixture is blended.
- Prepare sauce:
- Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth. Stir until smooth and thickened, about 3 minutes.
- Add chicken and seasoning:
- Mix in diced chicken, peas, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme. Simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly thickened.
- Toast bread:
- Toast bread slices and spread each with a little butter.
- Serve:
- Place toast on plates, spoon chicken mixture over, and top with parsley if desired.
Save This Chicken à la King has seen many weeknight dinners in our house, and everyone always cleans their plate. It brings us all together for a comforting meal, no matter how busy the day has been.
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 bread and broth ingredients for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 420, Total Fat: 20 g, Carbohydrates: 32 g, Protein: 28 g (per serving)
Save Chicken à la King over toast is creamy, comforting, and flexible for any occasion. Enjoy every bite with fresh parsley on top for a bright finish.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breast?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a convenient option and saves prep time. Just dice and add it to the sauce mixture.
- → What vegetables can I add or substitute?
Classic options include mushrooms, peppers, and peas but you may swap in carrots, celery, or corn if preferred.
- → Are there other serving suggestions besides toast?
Try puff pastry shells, rice, biscuits, or noodles for delicious variations on the dish.
- → How can I make the sauce richer?
Increase heavy cream or substitute some of the milk with more cream. Whole milk also adds extra richness.
- → Is this suitable for meal prep or leftovers?
Yes, refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat gently and prepare fresh toast when ready to serve.
- → What herbs pair well with this dish?
Fresh parsley, thyme, or a pinch of tarragon can enhance the flavor and brighten up the finished plate.