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 grandma making chicken à la king on chilly evenings, and we gathered around the kitchen table for second helpings. This recipe is a go-to for busy nights when you want something cozy without fuss.
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
- Prepare the 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 the Roux:
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
- Add Liquids and Thicken:
- Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring until smooth and thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients:
- 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 the 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 Our whole family loves this for lazy Sunday brunches. The kids especially enjoy piling the creamy chicken high on their toast and adding extra parsley.
Serving Suggestions
Switch up the base and serve the chicken mixture over puff pastry shells, rice, or biscuits instead of toast for variety.
Pairings
This creamy chicken à la king matches perfectly with a crisp white wine such as Chardonnay or fresh lemonade for a non-alcoholic option.
Nutrition Facts
Each serving contains about 420 calories, 20 g total fat, 32 g carbohydrates, and 28 g protein. These values may vary based on bread and ingredients used.
Save Treat yourself to a cozy, comforting meal — just a few simple steps for classic chicken à la king made easy. Enjoy every creamy, savory bite!
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of bread works best for this dish?
Hearty white or whole wheat bread toasted with butter provides the perfect base to complement the creamy chicken topping.
- → Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
Yes, diced cooked chicken breasts or rotisserie chicken are ideal for quick preparation without sacrificing flavor.
- → How is the sauce thickened?
The sauce is thickened with a roux made from butter and all-purpose flour, combined with milk and chicken broth for creaminess.
- → Are there suggested garnishes?
Freshly chopped parsley adds a vibrant, fresh note that balances the richness of the dish.
- → Can this be served with alternatives other than toast?
Yes, it pairs well with puff pastry shells, rice, or biscuits for different textures and presentations.
- → What seasonings enhance the flavor?
Salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme create a subtle complex flavor profile in the creamy sauce.