There’s something truly heartwarming about the rich, creamy aroma of Turkey À La King wafting through the kitchen, evoking memories of festive family gatherings and cozy comfort food. As the first hints of autumn cool the air, I cannot help but feel inspired to transform leftover turkey from our Thanksgiving feast into a new, delicious meal. This one-skillet delight not only simplifies your weeknight dining but brings together savory flavors from tender caramelized vegetables and succulent turkey, all enveloped in a luscious sauce.
In just 45 minutes, you can whip up a dish that rivals those classic chicken pot pies we all adore, minus the fuss of a crust. Whether you’re cooking for your family or inviting friends over for a casual dinner, the emotional warmth of Turkey À La King is sure to please everyone at the table. Ready to create a comforting meal that delights the senses and satisfies the soul? Let’s dive into this timeless recipe!
Why is Turkey À La King the Ultimate Comfort Food?
Simplicity: This one-skillet meal makes weeknight cooking a breeze, with minimal cleanup and straightforward preparation.
Rich, Creamy Texture: The luscious sauce envelops tender turkey and vegetables, delivering a comforting mouthfeel reminiscent of home-cooked classics.
Versatile Dish: Customize it easily with leftover turkey or chicken, and feel free to mix in seasonal veggies for added nutrition.
Time-Saving Delight: Ready in just 45 minutes, Turkey À La King is perfect for busy evenings, without sacrificing taste or quality.
Crowd Pleaser: Serve it to family or friends, and watch everyone gather around the table, enjoying the warmth of this nostalgic dish.
Perfect Pairings: Serve with warm biscuits or cornbread for a heartwarming meal that’s sure to delight!
Turkey À La King Ingredients
For the Sauce
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and helps sauté vegetables; can use olive oil for a healthier option.
- All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the sauce; can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Forms the base of the sauce, adding moisture; substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter option.
- Whole Milk – Creates a creamy texture; half-and-half or non-dairy milk works well as a substitute.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavors.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds warmth and a slight kick.
For the Vegetables
- Crimini Mushrooms – Provides earthy flavor and texture; white button mushrooms can be used in a pinch.
- Yellow Onion – Enhances sweetness and depth of flavor; shallots can offer a milder taste.
- Carrot – Adds sweetness and color; any root vegetable can work if desired.
- Celery – Contributes to the mirepoix base for flavor; leeks provide a different aromatic touch.
- Frozen Petite Peas – For sweetness and color; fresh peas can be utilized if available.
For the Main Ingredients
- Cooked Turkey Breast – The main protein cut into chunks; leftover chicken also works beautifully.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley – For garnish and added freshness.
Serving Options
- Warm Biscuits/Toast/Cornbread/Puff Pastry Shells – Recommended accompaniments to complete this comforting meal.
Create your delicious Turkey À La King and enjoy the warmth of home-cooked comfort food!
How to Make Turkey À La King
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Heat the Skillet: Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter until it’s bubbling but not browned, setting the stage for a rich flavor base.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add in 8 ounces of crimini mushrooms, 1 diced yellow onion, 1 diced carrot, and 2 stalks of diced celery. Sauté for about 8-10 minutes until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.
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Incorporate Flour: Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, stirring well to coat the vegetables. This step is crucial as it thickens your sauce; cook for another 1-2 minutes to remove any raw flour taste.
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Whisk in the Broth: Gradually whisk in 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup of whole milk. Season with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, bringing the mixture to a boil for about 2 minutes.
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Simmer to Thicken: Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens nicely. Keep stirring occasionally to avoid sticking and ensure a creamy texture.
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Add the Turkey and Peas: Gently fold in 3 cups of cooked turkey breast (cut into chunks) and 1 cup of frozen petite peas. Stir until everything is warmed through, about 4-6 minutes.
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Serve and Garnish: Serve your delicious Turkey À La King hot over warm biscuits or cornbread, and finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a fresh touch.
Optional: Pair with a side of fluffy rice for an extra comforting meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Turkey À La King
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Sauté with Care: Ensure vegetables are sautéed well to release their natural flavors. Skipping this step can result in dull-tasting vegetables.
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Avoid Lumpy Sauce: Whisk quickly when adding broth and milk to prevent lumps in your creamy sauce. A smooth texture is essential for the perfect Turkey À La King.
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Watch the Thickness: Keep an eye on the sauce as it simmers. It should be creamy but not too thick; stir occasionally to avoid sticking at the bottom.
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Customize Ingredients: Feel free to substitute with whatever you have on hand. Leftover chicken or different vegetables can elevate your Turkey À La King while reducing waste.
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Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley brightens up the dish and adds a lovely contrast to the richness of the sauce.
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Serve Warm: Pair this dish with warm biscuits or cornbread for that ultimate comfort food experience that brings everyone to the table!
How to Store and Freeze Turkey À La King
Fridge: Store your Turkey À La King in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before gently reheating for the best texture.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. If needed, add a little broth or milk to maintain creaminess.
What to Serve with Turkey À La King?
There’s nothing quite like creating a comforting meal that tantalizes your senses and brings warmth to your home.
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Warm Biscuits: These fluffy delights soak up the creamy sauce, creating a soul-soothing experience in every bite. You can even slather them with butter for extra indulgence.
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Cornbread: Sweet and slightly crumbly, cornbread pairs perfectly with Turkey À La King, balancing the richness of the dish with its subtle sweetness.
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Rice: A fluffy bed of steamed rice provides a light, neutral base that absorbs the savory flavors of the sauce, making every mouthful harmonious.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized veggies add a beautiful contrast of textures and colors while complementing the savory turkey and decadent sauce.
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Green Salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens, tangy vinaigrette, and perhaps some sliced avocado or nuts adds a refreshing element to cut through the richness.
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Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice that will make your Turkey À La King feel like a family feast. Their buttery softness is perfectly complemented by the hearty sauce.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay highlights the buttery elements of the dish and refreshes the palate between bites, making every taste more delightful.
Embrace these delicious accompaniments, and transform your Turkey À La King into an unforgettable meal that everyone will love!
Make Ahead Options
Turkey À La King is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the comforting flavors with minimal hassle during busy weeknights! You can chop all your vegetables (mushrooms, onions, carrots, and celery) up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can cook the turkey and peas ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the prepped veggies, stir in your flour and broth, then add the turkey and peas until warmed through. This way, you’ll enjoy a rich, delicious meal that’s just as delightful as if it were made fresh, saving you precious time in the kitchen!
Turkey À La King Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore these creative twists that will transform your comforting dish into something uniquely yours!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with coconut milk or almond milk for a creamy texture without dairy.
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Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch mixed with cold broth instead of flour to thicken the sauce, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.
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Extra Veggies: Add chopped bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for a delightful pop of color and nutrition, boosting the dish’s fiber content.
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Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of sage into your sauté to elevate the aromatic profile of the dish.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to introduce a warm heat that will tantalize your taste buds.
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Hearty Protein: Swap turkey for shredded rotisserie chicken, diced ham, or even cooked sausage for a flavorful twist your family will love.
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Noodle Option: For a heartier twist, serve the Turkey À La King over cooked egg noodles or pappardelle, creating a filling meal.
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Nutty Flavor: Toss in some slivered almonds or toasted pine nuts just before serving for an unexpected crunch and delicious nuttiness.
Turkey À La King Recipe FAQs
What type of turkey should I use for Turkey À La King?
For the best results, use cooked turkey breast, which can be cut into chunks. Leftover rotisserie chicken or turkey from a recent holiday feast works beautifully, giving the dish that homemade comfort flavor.
How should I store leftover Turkey À La King?
To maintain its freshness, store your Turkey À La King in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, do so on the stovetop over low heat to ensure even warming. If it has thickened, simply add a splash of milk or broth.
Can I freeze Turkey À La King?
Absolutely! For long-term storage, place your Turkey À La King in a sealed container and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring frequently to revive its creamy texture.
What if my sauce is too thick or too thin?
If your sauce turns out too thick, add a small amount of chicken broth or milk while stirring to reach your desired consistency. On the other hand, if it’s too thin, simply let it simmer a bit longer on low heat. Stirring constantly will help it thicken without burning.
Are there any dietary considerations for Turkey À La King?
When cooking for those with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version and non-dairy milk for lactose intolerance. Always check for allergies related to mushrooms or specific vegetables you choose to include—there are many alternatives to keep everyone safe while enjoying this comfort food!
How can I make Turkey À La King healthier?
A great way to boost nutrition is by adding more vegetables! You can incorporate bell peppers, green beans, or spinach to the sauté. Additionally, using skinless turkey and low-fat milk will reduce calories while still keeping the dish satisfying.
Savory Turkey À La King: Comfort Food in One Skillet
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter until bubbling but not browned.
- Add in 8 ounces of crimini mushrooms, 1 diced yellow onion, 1 diced carrot, and 2 stalks of diced celery. Sauté for about 8-10 minutes until softened.
- Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, stirring to coat the vegetables. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to remove raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup of whole milk. Season with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, bringing to a boil for about 2 minutes.
- Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally.
- Gently fold in 3 cups of cooked turkey breast and 1 cup of frozen petite peas, stir until warmed through, about 4-6 minutes.
- Serve hot over warm biscuits or cornbread, garnished with chopped parsley.