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 have fond memories of coming home to the aroma of Chicken à la King simmering on the stove. Making this recipe always brings a sense of nostalgia and is so simple that it is now a weeknight staple at our table.
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.
- Create roux:
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
- Make sauce:
- Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring until smooth and thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add chicken & peas:
- 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 My kids love helping by buttering the toast and sprinkling the fresh parsley on top as a finishing touch. It is a heartwarming meal that brings everyone together around the table.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken à la King with a crisp side salad or lightly steamed green beans for a balanced meal. A glass of white wine like Chardonnay pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Allergen Information
This dish contains wheat (bread, flour), milk (butter, milk, cream), and chicken. Check your bread and broth for any hidden allergens. Some breads may also include egg.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
Save This classic dish is sure to become a family favorite for both busy nights and relaxed weekend meals.
Kitchen Guide
- → What can I use instead of chicken breast?
Try rotisserie chicken for convenience or diced turkey for a similar flavor. You can also use leftover cooked poultry.
- → How can I make the sauce thicker?
Ensure the flour is cooked thoroughly when making the roux, and allow the sauce to simmer a little longer to thicken naturally.
- → Can I replace the toast with another base?
Yes, puff pastry shells, rice, or warm biscuits work well as alternatives and add different textures.
- → What vegetables complement this dish?
Mushrooms, bell peppers, peas, and onions provide a balanced flavor profile, but you can add or swap veggies like green beans or carrots.
- → Is it possible to prepare this in advance?
Prepare the sauce and chicken ahead, then reheat gently before serving over freshly toasted bread to maintain crispness.