This easy one-pot crustless chicken pot pie is warm and comforting. It’s packed with tender chicken, colorful veggies, and creamy goodness without the fuss of a crust!
Honestly, I love how simple this meal is. Just throw everything in one pot and let it do its thing. It’s perfect for busy days when you want something yummy and healthy! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tenderness. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut! You can also use turkey for a leaner option.
Vegetables: The mix of carrots, celery, and peas brings color and nutrition. Feel free to swap with your favorite veggies. Potatoes, green beans, or bell peppers work well too!
Flour: Whole wheat flour adds some extra fiber, but regular all-purpose flour is fine too. If you want a gluten-free version, try using a gluten-free flour blend instead.
Milk: I use unsweetened almond milk for a lighter touch. Feel free to substitute with any plant-based milk or stick with whole milk for a creamier texture. Just avoid sweetened versions—yikes!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Fully Cooked?
Cooking the chicken properly is key to a safe and delicious dish. Make sure to cut the chicken into small, uniform pieces. This helps them cook evenly. Here’s a simple way to check if it’s done:
- Cook the chicken until there’s no pink showing.
- Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C).
- Cut into a piece to confirm the inside is white and the juices run clear.
By following these tips, your chicken will be perfectly cooked every time! Remember, a little patience goes a long way in cooking.
Healthy One-Pot Crustless Chicken Pot Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 3 tablespoons whole wheat flour or all-purpose flour
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or unsweetened plant-based)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious healthy one-pot chicken pot pie takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 20-25 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need approximately 40 minutes to whip up this comforting meal, perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s nice and softened, which should take around 3-4 minutes.
2. Add More Vegetables:
Next, add the minced garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook this mixture for another 4-5 minutes, stirring now and then, until those veggies begin to soften as well.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Time to add the chicken pieces! Toss them into the pot and cook until they are no longer pink on the outside, which takes about 5 minutes. This step helps lock in the flavors as the chicken begins to brown slightly.
4. Add Flour:
Sprinkle in the flour, stirring well to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly. Let the flour cook for about 1-2 minutes to remove its raw taste. This will help thicken your pot pie sauce later!
5. Pour in Chicken Broth:
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to prevent any lumps from forming. This will create a smooth foundation for your sauce.
6. Mix It All Together:
Add in the milk, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir to combine all the wonderful flavors.
7. Simmering Time:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook until the sauce thickens and the chicken is cooked through, about 10-12 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to keep anything from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
8. Add Frozen Vegetables:
Now, it’s time to stir in the frozen peas, corn, and mushrooms if you’re using them. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until everything is warmed through and perfectly combined.
9. Taste and Adjust:
Give your pot pie a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. A little extra salt or pepper can make all the difference!
10. Finishing Touches:
Remove the pot from the heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley and shredded cheddar cheese if you like. Just let the cheese melt a bit into that creamy goodness!
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up your warm and comforting chicken pot pie as is, or pair it with a fresh side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your healthy one-pot comfort food!
FAQ for Healthy One-Pot Crustless Chicken Pot Pie
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken is a perfect time-saver. Just chop it into bite-sized pieces and add it during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through, skipping the browning step to keep it tender!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply switch the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your chicken broth is also labeled gluten-free to keep the entire recipe compliant!
What Vegetables Can I Substitute?
Feel free to customize your veggies! You can use green beans, potatoes, bell peppers, or even kale. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly to ensure everything is tender!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the pot pie back on the stove over low heat or microwave until warmed through. If the sauce thickens too much, stir in a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up.
