There’s something undeniably comforting about the first spoonful of Turkey a la King, a dish that transforms leftover turkey or chicken into a creamy delight. As soon as the rich aroma fills your kitchen, you’ll find yourself whisked away to cherished family dinners and cozy evenings at home. I discovered this gem one chilly evening when I was trying to avoid yet another fast-food run. With just a handful of ingredients and in under 20 minutes, I created a meal that not only satisfied my palate but also brought warmth to my soul.
This recipe is all about simplicity and flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re looking to impress with minimal effort. Imagine tender turkey enveloped in a velvety sauce, complemented by sautéed vegetables. Whether served over rice, noodles, or biscuits, it adapts beautifully to whatever you have on hand. Join me in whipping up this classic comfort food that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Why is Turkey a la King so beloved?
Simplicity: This one-pot meal comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect solution for busy lives.
Flavorful Comfort: With rich creaminess and savory turkey, each bite is a warm hug for your taste buds.
Flexible Ingredients: Use any leftover turkey or chicken you have, and feel free to mix in seasonal veggies for extra nutrition.
Crowd-Pleasing: It’s a family favorite that brings everyone to the table, ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve over rice, noodles, or biscuits — this dish adapts to whatever you have in the pantry!
Turkey a la King Ingredients
• Get ready to transform your leftovers!
For the Base
- Butter – Adds richness and is perfect for sautéing vegetables.
- Red Pepper – Provides a sweet and mild flavor; substitute with green bell pepper if desired.
- Green Onions – Adds a fresh, sharp taste; feel free to use any onion type you prefer.
- Mushrooms – Contributes an earthy depth; portobello or any variety works great.
For the Sauce
- Flour – Essential for thickening the sauce and achieving that creamy texture.
- Chicken Broth – A savory base; using homemade turkey stock elevates flavor, but canned works too.
- Cream – Adds ultimate richness; can be substituted with half-and-half or milk for a lighter take.
For Seasoning
- Salt – Enhances overall flavors, balancing the dish perfectly.
- Pepper – Adds a mild heat and depth to the flavor profile.
For the Main Ingredient
- Turkey – The star of the dish; shredded or diced leftovers are ideal for a delicious Turkey a la King experience.
Optional Add-ons
- Vegetables – Incorporate seasonal veggies like peas, carrots, or corn for added nutrition and flavor.
How to Make Turkey a la King
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Melt Butter: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat until bubbly. This will create a rich base for sautéing your vegetables.
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Sauté Veggies: Add 1 chopped red pepper, 2 sliced green onions, and 1 cup of chopped mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté until tender, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they’re vibrant and fragrant.
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Add Flour: Stir in ¼ cup of flour, mixing until smooth. This will help thicken your sauce later, giving it that creamy consistency everyone loves.
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Incorporate Broth: Gradually pour in 2 cups of chicken broth while stirring continuously. Keep at it until the mixture is well combined and starts to thicken slightly.
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Mix in Cream: Slowly drizzle in 1 cup of cream while stirring, allowing the mixture to thicken further for about 3-4 minutes. You’ll want it to be creamy and luscious.
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Stir in Turkey: Add 2 cups of shredded leftover turkey, stirring to combine everything. Season with salt and pepper to taste, letting the flavors meld for an additional minute.
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Serve: Dish out the Turkey a la King over your choice of noodles, rice, or biscuits. Enjoy the comforting aroma as you gather everyone around the table!
Optional: Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Turkey a la King is a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time in the kitchen! You can prepare the creamy sauce without the turkey up to 24 hours in advance by following steps 1 through 5, then refrigerating it in an airtight container. To maintain quality and prevent the veggies from becoming too soft, sauté them lightly and allow the sauce to cool before storing. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce over medium heat, stir in the cooked turkey, and season to taste. This way, you’ll enjoy a warm, comforting meal in no time, just as delicious as if you made it fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Turkey a la King
- Fridge: Store leftover Turkey a la King in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish is cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: You can freeze Turkey a la King for up to 3 months. Place it in a Freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating.
- Texture Tip: If the sauce appears too thick after freezing and reheating, stir in a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore its luscious consistency.
Expert Tips for Turkey a la King
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Vegetable Texture: Sauté your vegetables until just tender to maintain a delightful crunch and prevent them from getting mushy in the Turkey a la King.
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Creaminess Control: Adjust the thickness of your sauce by varying the amount of flour and cream; go lighter for a brothier dish, or more indulgent for a creamy classic.
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Maximize Leftovers: Utilize any leftover turkey or chicken, and don’t hesitate to incorporate seasonal veggies like peas or carrots to enhance both flavor and nutrition.
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Flavor Booster: Use homemade turkey stock instead of canned chicken broth for a richer taste. It makes a world of difference in your Turkey a la King!
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Serving Suggestions: For an upscale twist, serve over puff pastry instead of biscuits or noodles, transforming this comforting dish into something truly special.
Turkey a la King Variations
Feel free to get creative as you make this comforting dish your own with delightful twists!
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Rotisserie Chicken: Swap out leftover turkey for shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal. It’s an effortless shortcut without sacrificing flavor!
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Vegetable Mix: Add a medley of veggies like peas, carrots, and corn for extra nutrients and color. This way, you not only elevate the dish but also personalize it to your family’s taste buds.
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Grain Base: Serve over different bases like quinoa, mashed potatoes, or polenta for a unique experience. Each option brings a new layer of flavor and texture to your Turkey a la King.
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Spicy Kick: For those who like a bit of heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This adds a zesty dimension that’ll surprise and delight your guests!
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Dairy-Free: Replace cream with coconut milk or a cashew cream alternative for a dairy-free version. You won’t miss the creaminess, as the flavors harmonize beautifully.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor profile. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top can also make it pop with color and freshness!
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or add some cooked bacon bits for a delightful smoky twist. This will take your comfort food to the next level.
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Classic Meat Sauce: Instead of a creamy base, turn it into a meat sauce by omitting cream and adding a jar of your favorite marinara. Serve over pasta for a delectable Italian spin!
What to Serve with Turkey a la King?
Imagine the delightful aroma of Turkey a la King wafting through your kitchen, inviting loved ones to gather around the table for a comforting meal.
- Buttery Biscuits: Flaky, warm biscuits are perfect for soaking up that creamy, savory sauce, adding delightful texture to each bite.
- Garlic Bread: The crispy, garlicky crunch complements the rich creaminess of the dish and adds an extra flavor dimension to your meal.
- Steamed Asparagus: Bright and tender, asparagus adds a pop of color and freshness, balancing the richness of the Turkey a la King beautifully.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy, aromatic rice acts as a perfect canvas, absorbing the luscious sauce while adding subtle flavors from herbs or spices.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette refreshes the palate, contrasting the creamy turkey and making a colorful plate.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes provide a classic comfort food pairing, making each mouthful wonderfully satisfying.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy edges and nutty flavor bring a wonderful depth, adding a delicious contrast to the tender turkey pieces.
- Sparkling Apple Cider: For a delightful drink pairing, sparkling apple cider offers a refreshing sweetness that beautifully offsets the savory dish.
- Cheesecake: End the meal on a sweet note with a slice of creamy cheesecake, its richness making it a perfect dessert to follow this comforting entrée.
Turkey a la King Recipe FAQs
What type of turkey works best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Shredded or diced leftover turkey works best, as it absorbs the sauce beautifully. If you don’t have turkey, you can easily substitute shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep option.
How should I store leftover Turkey a la King?
To keep your Turkey a la King fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Always ensure the dish has cooled before sealing it to help maintain its deliciousness! When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it over low heat, stirring gently to keep the creamy sauce from separating.
Can I freeze Turkey a la King?
Yes, you can freeze Turkey a la King for up to 3 months! For optimal results, place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space for expansion. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat on low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce is too thick after reheating, just add a bit of chicken broth or cream to restore its creamy texture.
What if my sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce has turned out thicker than desired, don’t worry! Gently stir in a splash of chicken broth or cream while warming to reach your preferred consistency. It’ll bring back that luscious, velvety texture that makes Turkey a la King so comforting!
Are there any dietary considerations for Turkey a la King?
Absolutely! If you or someone you’re serving has dietary restrictions, you can easily make this dish gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. For those who are lactose intolerant, substitute cream with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk. Always check for allergies when selecting your broth and any additional ingredients.
How can I add more vegetables to Turkey a la King?
The more veggies, the merrier! Feel free to incorporate a medley of seasonal vegetables such as peas, carrots, or corn. Simply add them during the sautéing stage, allowing them to cook until just tender to maintain their delightful crunch and nutrition.
Savory Turkey a la King: Quick Comfort Food from Leftovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat until bubbly.
- Add 1 chopped red pepper, 2 sliced green onions, and 1 cup of chopped mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in 1/4 cup of flour, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually pour in 2 cups of chicken broth while stirring continuously.
- Slowly drizzle in 1 cup of cream while stirring.
- Add 2 cups of shredded leftover turkey, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve over your choice of noodles, rice, or biscuits.