Crustless Chicken Pot Pie is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. With its savory chicken filling and hearty vegetables, this recipe is an easy way to enjoy a classic meal without the hassle of preparing a crust. Let’s explore why you shouldn’t miss out on making this delightful dish in your kitchen!

Why Make This Recipe

There are countless reasons to whip up a Crustless Chicken Pot Pie. For starters, it’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep time and simple cooking techniques. This recipe allows you to enjoy all the traditional flavors of Chicken Pot Pie without the time-consuming dough-making process. Additionally, it’s highly adaptable, enabling you to incorporate whatever vegetables you have on hand or cater to dietary preferences. Plus, it’s a family-friendly meal that’s sure to please both kids and adults.

How to Make Crustless Chicken Pot Pie

Making your own Crustless Chicken Pot Pie at home is straightforward and incredibly rewarding. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Before you get started, gather the following ingredients:

1 – 2 tbsp butter (unsalted preferred)
1 small yellow onion (chopped)
2 large carrots (sliced into coins)
2 large celery sticks (sliced, about ½ cup)
3 large garlic cloves (minced)
⅓ cup whole wheat flour or all-purpose flour (gluten-free flour if needed)
4 cups low-sodium chicken stock
1 cup milk (skim, 2%, or whole)
1 ½ cups sweet potatoes (1 medium, or Yukon potatoes, about 1 lb, cut into small bite-sized cubes)
1 tsp salt (more to taste)
½ tsp ground black pepper (more to taste)
1 – 2 tbsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
3 – 4 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken is a great option)
1 cup frozen peas
¼ cup fresh parsley (finely chopped)
2 – 4 cups baby spinach (chopped, optional)

Directions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process:

In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat the butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 6 – 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and wilted.
In the last 30 seconds of cooking, add the minced garlic and stir to combine.
Sprinkle in the flour and mix thoroughly until all the vegetables are coated. Let the mixture "cook" for 1 minute while continually stirring.
Gradually pour in the chicken stock and milk. Add the sweet potatoes, salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 – 20 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender. Remember to stir every few minutes to prevent sticking.
Add the cooked shredded chicken, frozen peas, parsley, and optional spinach to the pot. Let everything simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Carefully taste and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
Remove from heat and serve hot! You can pair your Crustless Chicken Pot Pie with homemade biscuits, garlic bread, or a slice of buttery toasted bread for a complete meal.

Pro Tips for Success with Crustless Chicken Pot Pie

Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time, opt for store-bought rotisserie chicken. It adds flavor and simplifies the prep process.
Be Mindful of Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to create your ideal flavor profile.
Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or whatever is in season. Mushrooms, bell peppers, and green beans can all work wonderfully.
Make it Creamy: For an extra creamy filling, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream when mixing in the chicken.
Thicken It Up: If you prefer a thicker filling, simply allow it to simmer a bit longer to reduce the liquid, or add an extra tablespoon of flour.

Flavor Variations for Crustless Chicken Pot Pie

Spicing things up is easy with these flavor variations:

Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an aromatic twist.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a slight heat.
Cheesy Goodness: Stir in some shredded cheese (like cheddar or Monterey Jack) just before serving for a cheesy finish.
Curry Flavor: Mix in a teaspoon of curry powder for an aromatic, warm flavor that adds a unique twist.
Mexican Influence: Add black beans and corn, along with a sprinkle of taco seasoning, for a tasty Mexican chicken pot pie.

Serving Suggestions for Crustless Chicken Pot Pie

Crustless Chicken Pot Pie is a hearty meal on its own, but it can be enhanced with various sides:

Fresh Salad: A simple garden salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pot pie.
Bread: Serve with crusty bread, garlic bread, or homemade biscuits to soak up the delicious filling.
Steamed Vegetables: Opt for lightly steamed green beans or broccoli for an extra serving of veggies.
Mashed Potatoes: Consider serving with a side of creamy mashed potatoes for an indulgent comfort food experience.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Crustless Chicken Pot Pie

Storing leftovers is straightforward:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover Crustless Chicken Pot Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: To freeze, let the pot pie cool completely. Pour it into a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, and it can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————-|———–|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 600mg |

FAQ About Crustless Chicken Pot Pie

Can I use frozen chicken instead of cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure that it’s fully cooked before adding it to the pot. You can cook it in advance or boil it during the initial cooking stage.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this Crustless Chicken Pot Pie dairy-free, replace regular milk with a plant-based alternative like almond milk or coconut milk. You can also use dairy-free butter to sauté the vegetables.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Simply divide the finished pot pie into portions and store them in airtight containers. Reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute regular potatoes with sweet potatoes, Yukon gold potatoes, or even other root vegetables like parsnips. Just ensure they’re cut into small, bite-sized cubes for even cooking.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs can be used instead. The general rule is to use about one-third of the dried amount compared to fresh. So for 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme, use around 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.

Final Thoughts

Making a Crustless Chicken Pot Pie is an enjoyable culinary adventure that allows for plenty of creativity in the kitchen. With its comforting flavors and hearty ingredients, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Feel free to adapt the recipe to suit your taste and enjoy a delicious, warm meal that’ll satisfy your family and friends alike!