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 at a family brunch and was amazed by how quickly it came together. It instantly became a favorite thanks to its rich, creamy sauce and bright vegetables.
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.
- Form Sauce:
- Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring until smooth and thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add Chicken & Season:
- 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.
Save Chicken à la king is what my family requests on chilly evenings or busy weekends. Gathering everyone around the table with this comforting classic is always joyfully easy.
Variations
Swap the toast for puff pastry shells, rice, or flaky biscuits; add your favorite vegetables such as asparagus or spinach for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with a light salad and a crisp white wine like Chardonnay for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.
Save This classic comfort dish feels both special and familiar. Enjoy every creamy bite together tonight.
Recipe Help & Answers
- → What type of chicken works best?
Cooked, diced chicken breast or rotisserie chicken are ideal for easy preparation and tender texture.
- → Can I use different vegetables?
Yes, mushrooms, bell peppers, peas, and onions create a classic base, but adding others like celery or carrots can enhance flavor.
- → How is the creamy sauce made?
A roux of butter and flour is combined with milk and chicken broth, then thickened and seasoned to create the smooth sauce.
- → What bread is best for serving?
Hearty white or whole wheat bread slices toasted with butter offer a crisp base to hold the creamy chicken topping.
- → Can this dish be served differently?
Instead of toast, try puff pastry shells, rice, or biscuits for a varied presentation and texture.