Crustless Chicken Pot Pie

When you think of chicken pot pie, you probably imagine a golden, flaky crust wrapping around a creamy, savory filling. But what if you could enjoy all the delicious flavors without the extra carbs and calories from the crust? That’s where crustless chicken pot pie comes in!

This dish keeps everything you love about traditional chicken pot pie—the tender chicken, the rich and creamy sauce, and the hearty vegetables—while skipping the crust altogether. It’s perfect for those looking for a healthier, low-carb alternative, or for anyone who wants a quicker and easier meal.

Whether you’re following a low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diet, or simply want to whip up a comforting dish without the fuss of making pastry, crustless chicken pot pie is a fantastic option. In this article, we’ll dive deep into what makes this dish special, how to make it, and tips to customize it to your taste!

What is Crustless Chicken Pot Pie?

Crustless chicken pot pie is a simplified version of the classic dish, removing the baked or puff pastry crust while keeping the creamy, hearty filling. Instead of being enclosed in a crust, the filling is served on its own—like a thick, creamy chicken stew packed with flavor.

How is it Different from Traditional Chicken Pot Pie?

By removing the crust, this dish becomes lower in carbohydrates and easier to prepare, making it a go-to choice for those who love creamy, comforting meals without the extra effort. Plus, it’s highly customizable—you can make it dairy-free, gluten-free, or pack it with extra vegetables to fit your dietary needs!

Why Choose a Crustless Version?

You might be wondering—why skip the crust? Isn’t that one of the best parts of a classic chicken pot pie? While the crust is undeniably delicious, there are several reasons why a crustless chicken pot pie might be the better option for you:

1. A Healthier, Low-Carb Alternative

By removing the crust, this dish becomes significantly lower in carbohydrates and calories. A traditional chicken pot pie crust is often made with butter and refined flour, which adds a lot of extra calories and carbs. Without it, you still get the rich, creamy filling but in a healthier, more nutritious way.

2. Quicker and Easier to Make

Making homemade pie crust takes time—between preparing the dough, rolling it out, and baking it to the perfect crisp. A crustless version saves you time by skipping this step entirely. You can have a hearty meal ready in under 30 minutes!

3. Perfect for Special Diets

• Keto or Low-Carb – No crust means fewer carbs, making it a great option for those on a keto or low-carb diet.
• Gluten-Free – Many store-bought and homemade pie crusts contain wheat flour. A crustless version makes this dish naturally gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free Options – You can make simple substitutions (like coconut milk instead of heavy cream) to create a dairy-free version.

4. Great for Leftovers

Because this dish is basically a thick, creamy chicken stew, it stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully. The crust in traditional chicken pot pie often gets soggy when reheated, but with the crustless version, every bite stays as flavorful as the first.

Ingredients for the Best Crustless Chicken Pot Pie

Now that you’re sold on the idea of a crustless chicken pot pie, let’s talk about the key ingredients you’ll need to make it delicious and satisfying.

Main Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for a classic, flavorful version:

• Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. They’re tender and absorb flavors well.
• Vegetables – Traditional pot pie veggies include carrots, peas, celery, and onions, but you can mix in your favorites!
• Butter or Olive Oil – Used for sautéing vegetables and adding richness to the dish.
• Garlic – A must for deepening the flavor.
• Flour (or a Thickener Alternative) – Helps create the creamy texture of the filling. Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for a GF version.
• Chicken Broth – The base of the creamy filling. Use low-sodium broth for a healthier option.
• Milk or Cream – Heavy cream makes it extra rich, but for a lighter version, use milk, coconut milk, or unsweetened almond milk.
• Seasonings – Salt, black pepper, thyme, and parsley add warmth and depth.
• Cheese (Optional) – Some people like to mix in shredded cheddar or parmesan for extra creaminess.

Substitutions & Variations

• Want a lower-fat option? Use low-fat milk instead of cream.
• Prefer a richer flavor? Add mushrooms or leeks for extra depth.
• Need a dairy-free version? Substitute coconut milk or cashew cream.
• Craving more protein? Add cooked turkey or tofu instead of chicken.

How to Make Crustless Chicken Pot Pie (Step-by-Step)

Making crustless chicken pot pie is super easy and doesn’t require baking a crust. Let’s go through the simple steps to create a creamy, comforting dish in no time!

Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of butter or olive oil and let it melt.
3. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
4. Cook until the chicken is lightly browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of butter (if needed).
2. Toss in the chopped onions, carrots, and celery.
3. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
4. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Make the Creamy Base

1. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free) over the vegetables.
2. Stir well to coat everything—this will help thicken the sauce.
3. Gradually pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
4. Add 1 cup of milk or heavy cream and stir until the sauce starts to thicken.
5. Season with thyme, parsley, and a pinch of salt & pepper.

Add the Chicken and Peas

1. Return the cooked chicken to the pan.
2. Stir in ½ cup of peas (or other veggies of your choice).
3. Let everything simmer on low heat for 5 minutes until the sauce is thick and creamy.

Serve and Enjoy!

• Spoon the creamy chicken pot pie filling into bowls.
• Garnish with fresh parsley for extra flavor.
• Serve on its own or with a side of biscuits, mashed potatoes, or rice!

Best Cooking Methods

One of the best things about crustless chicken pot pie is that it’s versatile—you can cook it using different methods based on your preference.

1. Stovetop (Quickest Method)

• Best for: A fast and easy meal (ready in 30 minutes).
• Cook everything in one pan—great for easy cleanup.

2. Oven-Baked (For a Thicker Texture)

• Best for: A more set, casserole-style texture.
• Transfer the creamy filling into a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until bubbly.
• You can sprinkle cheese on top before baking for extra flavor.

3. Slow Cooker (Set It and Forget It)

• Best for: Busy days when you want to prep ahead.
• Add all ingredients (except milk/cream) to the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours.
• Stir in milk or cream at the end before serving.

4. Instant Pot (Fast & Flavorful)

• Best for: A hands-off approach that’s still quick.
• Use the “Sauté” function for cooking the chicken and veggies.
• Add broth and pressure cook for 8 minutes, then stir in cream at the end.

Customizing Your Recipe

One of the best things about crustless chicken pot pie is that you can easily customize it to fit your taste, dietary needs, or available ingredients. Here are some ways to make it your own!

1. Add More Vegetables

Want to boost the nutrition in your dish? Swap or add different vegetables for extra flavor, color, and texture:

• Mushrooms – Adds a deep, earthy flavor.
• Sweet Potatoes – A slightly sweet and creamy alternative to regular potatoes.
• Green Beans – Gives a nice crunch and extra fiber.
• Corn – Adds a pop of sweetness.
• Spinach or Kale – Wilts beautifully into the creamy base for added nutrients.

2. Change Up the Protein

If you don’t have chicken or want to try something different, swap it for:

• Turkey – A great option for using up holiday leftovers.
• Rotisserie Chicken – A quick, no-cook alternative.
• Tofu or Chickpeas – A vegetarian option for a plant-based meal.
• Shrimp – For a unique seafood twist.

3. Make It Extra Creamy

If you love extra creaminess, consider adding:

• Shredded cheese (cheddar, parmesan, or gruyère) for a richer texture.
• A spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy depth of flavor.

4. Add a Crunchy Topping

Since this dish doesn’t have a crust, adding a topping can bring some crunch:

• Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for a light crispy topping.
• Toasted nuts (like almonds or pecans) for a nutty crunch.
• Grated cheese broiled on top for a golden, bubbly finish.

Healthy Swaps for a Nutritious Meal

If you’re looking to make your crustless chicken pot pie even healthier, here are some easy swaps to lighten it up without losing flavor.

1. Lower the Fat Content

• Instead of heavy cream, use low-fat milk, unsweetened almond milk, or coconut milk.
• Use olive oil instead of butter for sautéing vegetables.
• Skip the cheese if you want a lighter version.

2. Make It Gluten-Free

• Swap flour for cornstarch or arrowroot powder as a thickener.
• Use a gluten-free broth (some broths contain wheat!).

3. Reduce the Sodium

• Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels.
• Swap out salt for herbs and spices like thyme, garlic powder, or smoked paprika.

4. Increase Protein

• Add a scoop of collagen or unflavored protein powder to the sauce.
• Mix in white beans or lentils for extra protein and fiber.

What to Serve with Crustless Chicken Pot Pie?

Since crustless chicken pot pie is rich and creamy, it pairs well with lighter, fresh sides to balance out the meal. Here are some delicious side dish ideas:

1. Breads & Starches

Even though this dish is crustless, you can still serve it with:

• Biscuits – Classic and perfect for scooping up the creamy filling.
• Mashed Potatoes – Makes the meal even heartier.
• Rice or Quinoa – A healthy base to soak up the flavors.
• Cornbread – Adds a slight sweetness that complements the savory filling.

2. Fresh Vegetables & Salads

A fresh, crunchy salad or roasted veggies can help balance the richness:

• Simple Green Salad – A mix of lettuce, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes with a light vinaigrette.
• Steamed or Roasted Broccoli – A healthy, fiber-rich side.
• Garlic Roasted Asparagus – Adds a slightly crisp contrast.

3. Light Soups

Pairing a light broth-based soup with this dish can create a comforting meal:

• Tomato Basil Soup – The acidity cuts through the creaminess.
• Vegetable Soup – Adds more nutrients to your meal.

Storage & Reheating Tips

One of the best things about crustless chicken pot pie is that it stores well and makes great leftovers!

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat Without Drying It Out

• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes if reheating a larger batch.

Pro Tip: Avoid overheating, as this can cause the dairy to separate and the chicken to become dry.

FAQs About Crustless Chicken Pot Pie

1. Looking for Another Delicious Chicken Recipe?

If you love crustless chicken pot pie, you might also enjoy another flavorful and easy chicken dish—Grilled Chicken Margherita! This dish features juicy grilled chicken topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and melted mozzarella, making it a perfect light and delicious meal.

2. How do I thicken my crustless chicken pot pie filling?

If your filling is too thin, try one of these methods:

• Add a slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water) and stir until thickened.
• Simmer for a few extra minutes to let excess liquid evaporate.
• Add a small amount of mashed potatoes to naturally thicken the dish.

3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Simply replace:

• Milk or cream with coconut milk, almond milk, or cashew cream.
• Butter with olive oil or dairy-free margarine.

4. What’s the best way to add a crispy topping?

Since this version has no crust, you can add a crunchy topping by:

• Sprinkling crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top.
• Using grated cheese and broiling for a few minutes.
• Adding toasted almonds or chopped nuts for a unique texture.

5. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! To make a slow cooker version:

1. Add all ingredients (except milk and peas) to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours.
3. Stir in milk and peas at the end, then let it sit for 10 minutes before serving.

6. What if I don’t have chicken breasts?

No problem! You can use:

• Rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Chicken thighs for more flavor.
• Leftover turkey for a great post-holiday meal.

Conclusion

Crustless chicken pot pie is a delicious, creamy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for an easy weeknight meal. Whether you’re making it low-carb, gluten-free, or dairy-free, this recipe is flexible and simple to customize. Plus, with quick prep and easy reheating, it’s a great meal-prep option for busy days.