Crustless Chicken Pot Pie

Everybody will love this cozy and comforting crustless chicken pot pie soup. It’s a delightful dish that can be enjoyed for dinner or lunch, perfect for any occasion. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also loaded with protein, thanks to the use of rotisserie chicken and sweet potatoes. Plus, it’s all made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with veggies and lean protein, it’s a nutritious choice for the whole family.
• One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy the convenience of minimal dishes to wash after cooking.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or herbs to suit your taste.
• Comforting Flavor: The hearty blend of chicken and sweet potatoes creates a warm, satisfying dish.

Tools and Preparation

To make your crustless chicken pot pie, having the right tools on hand will ensure a smooth cooking experience. Here are the essential tools you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large dutch oven or pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large dutch oven or pot: Ideal for simmering soups, providing even heat distribution.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for your delicious crustless chicken pot pie soup:

Vegetables

• 1 – 2 tbsp butter (I like unsalted)
• 1 small yellow onion (chopped)
• 2 large carrots (sliced into coins)
• 2 large celery sticks (sliced (about ½ cup))
• 3 large garlic cloves (minced)

Base

• ⅓ cup whole wheat flour or all-purpose flour (gluten-free flour if needed)
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken stock
• 1 cup milk (I used skim; 2% and whole work too)

Main Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups sweet potatoes (cut into small bite-sized cubes)
• 1 tsp salt (plus more to taste)
• ½ tsp ground black pepper (plus more to taste)
• 1 – 2 tbsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
• 3 – 4 cups cooked shredded chicken (I love using rotisserie chicken)

Add-ins

• 1 cup frozen peas
• ¼ cup fresh parsley (finely chopped)
• 2 – 4 cups baby spinach (chopped, optional)

How to Make Crustless Chicken Pot Pie

Follow these simple steps to create your comforting crustless chicken pot pie soup:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large dutch oven or pot, heat butter over medium-low. When melted:
1. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery.
2. Cook for 6 – 8 minutes until soft and wilted, stirring occasionally.
3. In the last 30 seconds, add minced garlic and stir.

Step 2: Add Flour

Add the flour to the vegetable mixture:
1. Mix until all the vegetables are coated.
2. Let it “cook” for about 1 minute.

Step 3: Combine Liquids and Potatoes

Add in the following ingredients:
– Chicken stock
– Milk
– Sweet potatoes
– Salt
– Pepper
– Thyme

Stir well to combine. Bring to a boil then reduce heat:
– Let simmer for 15 – 20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
– Stir every few minutes to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Incorporate Chicken and Peas

After simmering:
1. Add cooked shredded chicken, frozen peas, parsley, and optional spinach.
2. Allow everything to simmer together for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 5: Final Touches

Carefully taste test your soup:
– Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat and serve with homemade biscuits or garlic bread for a complete meal! Enjoy your delicious crustless chicken pot pie soup!

How to Serve Crustless Chicken Pot Pie

Crustless chicken pot pie is a warm and comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Homemade Biscuits

• Almond Milk Biscuits: These fluffy biscuits pair perfectly with the creamy soup, adding a delightful crunch.
• Garlic Bread: A crispy garlic bread complements the flavors of the pot pie and makes for a satisfying addition.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley on top adds a burst of color and enhances the dish’s flavor.
• Extra Thyme: For herb lovers, adding a bit more fresh thyme can elevate the taste of your crustless chicken pot pie.

With a Side Salad

• Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
• Caesar Salad: This classic salad adds creaminess and crunch, balancing out the texture of the dish.

How to Perfect Crustless Chicken Pot Pie

Perfecting your crustless chicken pot pie involves attention to detail. Follow these tips for an even better meal.

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: This saves time and adds incredible flavor. You can easily shred it into bite-sized pieces for the soup.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjusting salt, pepper, and herbs helps achieve your desired flavor profile.
• Ensure Vegetables are Tender: Cooking the vegetables until soft enhances their sweetness and overall texture in the dish.
• Experiment with Different Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added nutrition and variety.

Best Side Dishes for Crustless Chicken Pot Pie

Pairing side dishes with crustless chicken pot pie can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that complements the soup well.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts provide a lovely crunch and earthy flavor that pairs nicely.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition without overwhelming flavors.
4. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with lemon dressing offers a nutty flavor and balances the richness of the pot pie.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins make for a delightful pairing, adding sweetness to each bite.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, enhancing the overall meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a crustless chicken pot pie, there are a few common pitfalls to steer clear of for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough salt and pepper can leave your dish bland. Always taste as you go and adjust seasoning to your preference.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking veggies for too long can make them mushy. Aim for tender but still slightly crisp vegetables for the best texture.
• Using high-sodium stock: Using regular chicken stock can make your soup too salty. Opt for low-sodium stock to maintain flavor without overpowering saltiness.
• Ignoring cooking time for sweet potatoes: If sweet potatoes are not cooked enough, they will remain hard. Ensure they are fork-tender by simmering adequately.
• Not incorporating fresh herbs: Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor. Don’t skip them; they elevate the dish and should be added right before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Crustless Chicken Pot Pie

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crustless Chicken Pot Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil; heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, in 1-minute intervals until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crustless Chicken Pot Pie?

Crustless chicken pot pie is a comforting dish made with shredded chicken, vegetables, and a creamy broth without the traditional pie crust.

Can I use leftovers for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken works great in this crustless chicken pot pie, making it easier and quicker to prepare.

How do I customize my Crustless Chicken Pot Pie?

You can customize by adding your favorite vegetables or using different herbs and spices according to your taste preferences.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to enjoy it.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative to make this crustless chicken pot pie gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This crustless chicken pot pie is not only cozy and comforting but also versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins for a personal touch. Try it today, and enjoy a healthy one-pot dinner that everyone will love!