Pin 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.
Chicken à la King has always been a favorite in our kitchen, especially on busy evenings. The creamy sauce and mix of veggies always remind me of family dinners when everyone gathered around for some warm, satisfying food.
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 flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
- Add Liquids:
- Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth, stirring until smooth and thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Simmer Chicken and Veggies:
- Add 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 chicken à la King generously over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Pin This dish was a special request from my kids last winter when the weather turned chilly. We sat around the table laughing and sharing stories as the rich sauce warmed us up, and everyone reached for seconds before the last drop disappeared.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken à la King can be enjoyed over rice, puff pastry shells, or homemade biscuits for a different twist. Pair with a simple mixed green salad to round out your meal.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat, milk, and chicken. Always check bread and broth ingredients for potential allergens. Some breads may contain egg.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains about 420 calories, 20 g fat, 32 g carbohydrates, and 28 g protein.
Pin Try this Chicken à la King whenever you crave a taste of retro comfort. The creamy sauce and colorful veggies will make any dinner feel special.
Recipe Q&A
- → What type of chicken works best for this dish?
Cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded rotisserie chicken, works well to keep the dish tender and flavorful.
- → Can I substitute the vegetables used?
Yes, mushrooms, bell peppers, peas, and onions add great texture and flavor, but you can swap or add vegetables to suit your taste.
- → How is the creamy sauce made?
Butter and flour form a roux, then milk and broth are whisked in and cooked until thickened, creating a smooth base for the chicken and veggies.
- → What type of bread is ideal for toasting?
Hearty white or whole wheat bread holds up well when toasted with butter, adding a crisp, rich base for the creamy topping.
- → Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the creamy chicken mixture in advance and toast the bread just before serving for best texture.