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 the first time I made Chicken à la King for my family, it instantly became a weeknight staple because of how rich and satisfying it was while still being so easy to whip up. Leftovers do not last long in our house.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced (about 300 g)
- Mushrooms: 1 cup, sliced
- Red bell pepper: 1/2 cup, diced
- Frozen peas: 1/2 cup, thawed
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Unsalted butter: 3 tbsp (plus 2 tbsp for toasting)
- All-purpose flour: 3 tbsp
- Whole milk: 2 cups
- Chicken broth: 1/2 cup
- Heavy cream: 1/4 cup
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Paprika: 1/4 tsp
- Dried thyme: 1/4 tsp
- Bread: 4 slices hearty white or whole wheat
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): 2 tbsp (for garnish)
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.
- Form 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.
- Add chicken and 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.
- Assemble and 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 Serving this dish at our family table always sparks conversation about childhood favorites and classic comfort foods. It is a wonderful way to bring everyone together with minimal fuss.
Required Tools
Large skillet, whisk, knife and cutting board, toaster or oven, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains wheat, milk, and chicken. Double-check bread and broth ingredients for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 420
Total Fat: 20 g
Carbohydrates: 32 g
Protein: 28 g
Save This Chicken à la King is pure comfort in a bowl. Make it your own with your favorite mix-ins or serve it over whatever base you like best.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken for this dish?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a convenient option that saves time while maintaining great flavor.
- → What type of bread works best for serving?
Hearty white or whole wheat bread toasted with butter works well, providing a sturdy base and crisp texture.
- → Can I add extra creaminess to the sauce?
Adding more heavy cream in place of some milk enhances richness and creates a more luxurious texture.
- → Are there alternatives to serving over toast?
This topping pairs deliciously with puff pastry shells, rice, or biscuits for different serving options.
- → What herbs and spices elevate the flavor?
Paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper provide a balanced seasoning that complements the creamy sauce.
- → How can I make the vegetables tender but not mushy?
Sauté mushrooms, peppers, and onions over medium heat for 4–5 minutes until softened but still holding shape.