Save to Pinterest 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 discovered chicken à la king in my grandmother's kitchen, where the aroma of buttered toast and creamy chicken would fill the house on chilly evenings. It's become a family favorite for its simplicity and nostalgic taste.
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 Aromatics:
- 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.
- Add Liquids:
- 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 Bread:
- Meanwhile, toast the bread slices and spread each with a little butter.
- Serve:
- To 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 to Pinterest My own kids eagerly help toast the bread and love piling the creamy chicken mixture high. Sharing this dish together is a comforting family moment that brings back warm memories every time.
Serving Suggestions
Consider swapping toast for puff pastry shells, biscuits, or rice to change up the presentation. Pairing with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay makes it extra special for brunch.
Required Tools
Large skillet, whisk, knife and cutting board, toaster or oven, measuring cups and spoons ensure an easy cooking experience.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 420 calories, 20 g fat, 32 g carbohydrates, and 28 g protein.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this classic comfort dish with your favorite sides for a cozy, satisfying meal. Its creamy texture and versatility make it a staple in our kitchen.
Answers to Recipe Questions
- → What type of chicken works best?
Cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded, delivers tender bites and absorbs the creamy sauce well.
- → Can I substitute the bread for something else?
Yes, puff pastry shells, rice, or biscuits are excellent alternatives to buttered toast for serving.
- → How is the creamy sauce made?
By cooking butter with flour to create a roux, then gradually whisking in milk and chicken broth until smooth and thickened.
- → What vegetables are included in the dish?
Sautéed mushrooms, red bell pepper, peas, and onion add color and subtle sweetness.
- → How can I add extra richness?
Replacing some milk with additional heavy cream boosts the sauce's creaminess and flavor.