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.
My family always looked forward to chicken à la king night. There's something deeply satisfying about spooning the warm, creamy mixture over crunchy toast. The hearty vegetables and tender chicken bring back memories of easygoing dinners at home.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced (about 300 g)
- Mushrooms: 1 cup, sliced
- Red bell pepper: 1/2 cup, diced
- Peas: 1/2 cup frozen, thawed
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Unsalted butter: 3 tbsp (plus 2 tbsp for toasting bread)
- 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
- Fresh parsley (optional): 2 tbsp, chopped
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.
- Add liquids:
- Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring until smooth and thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Combine chicken and seasoning:
- 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 The first time I made this for my kids, they were delighted by the creamy sauce. It's become our go-to after busy days when we all need comfort and quick flavor.
Recipe Variations
Swap the chicken for turkey or use rotisserie chicken for convenience. For a vegetarian spin, replace chicken with sautéed tofu and vegetable broth.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a light green salad or steamed broccoli. A crisp white wine like Chardonnay compliments the flavors perfectly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Prepare the filling up to two days in advance and refrigerate in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove before serving over freshly toasted bread.
Save A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds freshness. Enjoy this as a satisfying meal any time you crave comfort food.
Recipe Help & Answers
- → What type of chicken works best?
Cooked, diced chicken breast provides a tender texture, but rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience and added flavor.
- → Can I use fresh or frozen vegetables?
Fresh mushrooms, bell pepper, and onion are ideal, while thawed frozen peas integrate nicely for balanced sweetness.
- → How is the creamy sauce thickened?
A roux made from butter and flour forms the base, then milk and broth are whisked in and gently cooked until thickened.
- → What type of bread is recommended for toasting?
Hearty white or whole wheat bread slices work well, toasted and buttered to add crispness beneath the chicken mixture.
- → Are there alternative serving suggestions?
This dish can also be served over puff pastry shells, rice, or biscuits for varied textures and presentations.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor?
Dried thyme and paprika in the sauce add warmth, while fresh parsley garnish brightens the dish visually and in taste.