Save Chicken à la King over Toast is a comforting classic that combines tender chicken, mushrooms, vibrant bell peppers, and sweet peas in a creamy sauce. Served warm over crisp buttered toast, it’s a perfect dish for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed brunch. The rich textures and balanced flavors make every bite feel indulgent yet homey.
Save This dish embodies classic American comfort food with a modern ease. The blend of sautéed vegetables with a velvety sauce envelops the chicken, creating a luscious topping for buttery toast. Whether you’re using freshly cooked chicken or a rotisserie shortcut, the flavors meld beautifully to deliver a satisfying meal.
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
- Step 1
- 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.
- Step 2
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
- Step 3
- Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring until smooth and thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Step 4
- 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.
- Step 5
- Meanwhile, toast the bread slices and spread each with a little butter.
- Step 6
- 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.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Melt butter carefully to prevent browning too early, and make sure to stir the roux constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer the sauce gently to allow flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken perfectly. Preparing the toast while the sauce simmers ensures a crisp base that contrasts the creamy topping wonderfully.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra richness, replace some of the milk with additional heavy cream. Rotisserie chicken can be used as a convenient shortcut. You can also serve this dish over puff pastry shells, rice, or biscuits instead of toast for a variation in texture and presentation.
Serviervorschläge
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine such as Chardonnay. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables complement the richness, making for a balanced meal perfect for any occasion.
Save With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, Chicken à la King over Toast elevates everyday chicken into a dish that feels both nostalgic and special. It’s a recipe to keep on hand for those moments when comfort food and convenience are equally important.
Recipe Guide
- → What is the best way to cook the vegetables?
Sauté the onions, mushrooms, and bell peppers over medium heat in butter until softened, about 4-5 minutes. This ensures they release their flavors and retain some texture.
- → Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this dish?
Yes, diced cooked chicken breast works well, making preparation faster while maintaining a tender texture.
- → How is the creamy sauce made?
Start with a roux by cooking flour and butter, then gradually whisk in milk and broth until thickened. Simmer with chicken, peas, and spices for a rich, smooth sauce.
- → What bread is recommended for toasting?
Hearty white or whole wheat bread slices are ideal, toasted with butter to add crispness and flavor that complements the creamy topping.
- → Can other serving bases be used besides toast?
Yes, alternatives like puff pastry shells, steamed rice, or biscuits can be used to vary texture and presentation.