Crustless chicken pot pie offers a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. Packed with tender chicken, seasonal vegetables, and a savory sauce, it delivers all the flavors you love without the fuss of a traditional crust. This dish not only simplifies the cooking process but also caters to those looking for a lower-carb option. Dive into this delicious meal that brings warmth and satisfaction, perfect for any occasion.
Why We Love This Crustless Chicken Pot Pie
This crustless chicken pot pie holds a special place in many hearts for several good reasons. First and foremost, it combines hearty chicken with a colorful array of vegetables, making it a nutritious and filling meal. The absence of a crust means you get to focus on the flavors of the fresh ingredients without the heaviness that sometimes accompanies crusts. It is also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. Furthermore, this recipe allows customization, letting you adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients for Crustless Chicken Pot Pie
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup green peas, frozen or fresh
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and green peas. Mix to combine.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually add the milk and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Sprinkle the flour mixture into the skillet and stir well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Transfer the chicken mixture into a greased 9-inch pie dish or a similar baking dish. Smooth the top to ensure even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Serve Crustless Chicken Pot Pie
Serving crustless chicken pot pie is as straightforward as preparing it. You can serve it directly from the baking dish, allowing your guests to help themselves. This dish pairs wonderfully with a light side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors. Consider offering a selection of condiments, like hot sauce or fresh herbs, to elevate individual servings. For a family-style gathering, place the dish at the center of the table and attractively arrange salad and bread nearby. You can also serve leftovers in individual bowls for a cozy meal. This presentation brings warmth and togetherness to your dining experience, making every meal feel special.
Expert Tips for Crustless Chicken Pot Pie
To achieve the best crustless chicken pot pie, start with high-quality ingredients. Use fresh or homemade chicken broth for richer flavor, and shred your own chicken for better texture. If you’re in a hurry, rotisserie chicken works great too. Don’t hesitate to play with the vegetables. Adding bell peppers, corn, or mushrooms can enhance both flavor and nutrition. Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste; a pinch of cayenne pepper can provide a delightful kick. Be mindful of baking time; you want it to be golden and not overcooked. Finally, let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the filling to set slightly, making for easier slicing. These tips will help ensure that your crustless chicken pot pie emerges from the oven perfectly.
How to Store Crustless Chicken Pot Pie
To store your crustless chicken pot pie, first, let it cool completely. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness. Alternatively, you can transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap the baked pie tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe container; it can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven. This method maintains the texture and flavor, ensuring a delicious meal awaits you.
Variations of Crustless Chicken Pot Pie
Crustless chicken pot pie is versatile, allowing for a variety of flavor profiles and ingredient substitutions. You can easily swap the chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Experimenting with different vegetables can also add unique tastes. Consider incorporating spinach, zucchini, or broccoli for added nutrition and color. For a creamy variation, mix in some cream cheese or sour cream with the filling to enhance the richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding spices like curry powder for an Indian twist or Italian herbs for a Mediterranean flavor. You can also use different kinds of broth, such as vegetable or mushroom, to introduce distinct flavors. Each variation offers a unique take on this classic dish while staying true to its comforting essence.
FAQ about Crustless Chicken Pot Pie
What is crustless chicken pot pie?
Crustless chicken pot pie is a comforting dish made with shredded chicken and vegetables in a creamy sauce, baked without a traditional pie crust.
How can I make crustless chicken pot pie healthier?
To make crustless chicken pot pie healthier, use lean chicken, fresh vegetables, and low-fat milk. Adding a variety of vegetables can also increase its nutritional value.
Can I use leftovers for crustless chicken pot pie?
Yes, you can use leftover chicken and vegetables in crustless chicken pot pie, making it a great way to reduce food waste while enjoying a flavorful meal.
How long does crustless chicken pot pie last in the fridge?
Crustless chicken pot pie can last in the fridge for up to three days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I freeze crustless chicken pot pie?
Yes, you can freeze crustless chicken pot pie for up to three months. Just make sure to cool it completely and wrap it well before placing it in the freezer.
What vegetables can I add to crustless chicken pot pie?
You can add a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, peas, green beans, corn, or even spinach and mushrooms, to customize your crustless chicken pot pie.
Is crustless chicken pot pie gluten-free?
To make crustless chicken pot pie gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for thickening the sauce.
Crustless Chicken Pot Pie
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Use rotisserie chicken for convenience
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup green peas, frozen or fresh
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 cup milk Low-fat milk can be used for a healthier option
- 1 cup chicken broth Preferably homemade for better flavor
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour Gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free version
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and green peas. Mix to combine.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually add the milk and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Sprinkle the flour mixture into the skillet and stir well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Transfer the chicken mixture into a greased 9-inch pie dish or a similar baking dish. Smooth the top to ensure even cooking.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!