Crustless chicken pot pie is a delicious, lighter take on the traditional comfort food, perfect for those who want all the creamy, savory goodness without the heavy pastry crust. This dish combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, velvety sauce in a one-pan meal that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. Whether you’re cutting back on carbs, avoiding gluten, or just looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers all the cozy flavors of a classic pot pie with less effort.

Why Go Crustless?

The absence of a crust makes this dish faster to whip up, lower in calories, and adaptable to various dietary needs. Without the pastry, the focus shifts to the hearty filling, packed with protein and vegetables, making it a wholesome choice for families or meal preppers. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or veggies in your fridge!

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 cup frozen peas (or fresh, if available)
• 1 cup frozen corn (optional, for added sweetness)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for gluten-free)
• 2 cups chicken broth, low-sodium preferred
• 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or plant-based milk like almond or oat)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for a cheesy twist)

Instructions

1. Prep the Ingredients
   Dice the onion, carrots, and celery, and mince the garlic. Shred or dice the cooked chicken and set aside. If using frozen peas or corn, measure them out for easy access.
2. Cook the Vegetables
   In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Make the Creamy Base
   Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat, cooking for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the milk, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring until it thickens (about 3-5 minutes).
4. Add Chicken and Veggies
   Stir in the shredded chicken, peas, and corn (if using). Let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
5. Optional Cheesy Finish
   If using cheese, sprinkle it over the top and stir until melted and incorporated, giving the dish a rich, creamy texture.
6. Serve and Garnish
   Remove from heat and let the pot pie filling cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm in bowls as is, or pair with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread for a heartier meal.

Tips and Variations

• Make it Gluten-Free: Swap the flour for a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your broth is gluten-free as well.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with mushrooms, tofu, or a mix of hearty vegetables like zucchini or potatoes. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Add a Topping: For a faux crust, sprinkle crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or even crushed potato chips on top before serving for a bit of crunch.
• Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

Why You’ll Love It

Crustless chicken pot pie is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. It’s comforting without being heavy, and the one-pan preparation keeps cleanup to a minimum. With endless ways to customize—whether you add your favorite veggies, herbs, or a cheesy topping—this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Enjoy this warm, hearty meal that brings all the nostalgic flavors of chicken pot pie to your table with a modern, lighter twist!