High Protein Crustless Chicken Pot Pie – Easy One-Pot Family Favorite

Introduction

There are certain smells that just anchor you to a moment in time, aren’t there? For me, the rich, savory aroma of chicken pot pie wafting from the oven takes me straight back to my grandmother’s kitchen in Texas. She’d make this incredible, buttery-crusted version that Emily still talks about. But as much as I love that original, life changes. When you’re trying to pack in high protein chicken recipes for Adams, 12, who’s currently obsessed with basketball, and make something warm and comforting for Jana, 9, after a long school day, you sometimes need a shortcut, especially one that fits a busy weeknight.

That’s how I landed on the idea for this High Protein Crustless Chicken Pot Pie. It delivers all that classic, creamy, soulful comfort without the fuss, carbs, or extra time needed for a flaky pastry crust. Think of it as the ultimate in cozy, healthy comfort food. It’s a healthy crustless chicken pot pie that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Instead of being topped with a thick layer of pastry, we concentrate on maximizing the savory filling, creating a robust, deep-dish casserole that’s absolutely loaded with tender chicken breast or rotisserie chicken, essential vegetables like carrots and celery, and a thick, velvety sauce we make protein-packed with a little secret ingredient. This truly is an easy crustless chicken pot pie recipe that fits neatly into our modern, hustling lives while still tasting exactly like home.

Table of Contents

• Why You’ll Love This High Protein Crustless Chicken Pot Pie
• Ingredients for High Protein Crustless Chicken Pot Pie
• How to Make High Protein Crustless Chicken Pot Pie
• Pro Tips & Variations
• High Protein Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Serving Suggestions
• High Protein Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Storage & Reheating
• FAQ about High Protein Crustless Chicken Pot Pie
• Final Thoughts

Why You’ll Love This High Protein Crustless Chicken Pot Pie

Emily often jokes that my cooking style is ‘memoir-meets-manual,’ and she’s probably right. I love telling the story, but I also need the recipe to work for busy people. This recipe doesn’t just work, it shines, making it an immediate family favorite and a perfect answer to the question, ‘What’s for dinner?’

Here’s why Adams asks for this crustless chicken pot pie every week:

• It’s Truly High Protein: By focusing on a large amount of chicken breast and using Greek yogurt or cottage cheese (our secret ingredient!) to thicken the base instead of just heavy cream, we boost the protein content significantly. This makes it an incredibly satisfying and fulfilling meal, perfect for active kids and grownups looking for a substantial, recovery-friendly dinner. This is the definition of a high protein chicken pot pie.
• Speedy & Simple Weeknight Dinner: Traditional pot pie is a project. This version? Not so much! Especially if you utilize leftover shredded chicken or a store-bought rotisserie chicken, you can have this prepped and in the oven in under 15 minutes. It’s an fantastic easy crustless chicken pot pie option when you have little time but still crave big flavor.
• Low Carb Adaptability (Keto Friendly!): Ditching the crust naturally makes this a low carb chicken pot pie, which is great if you’re maintaining certain dietary goals. The richness of the filling means you won’t miss the dough at all. We are laser-focused on that buttery, savory filling that everyone loves.
• One-Pot Magic (Almost!): We build this mostly in one Dutch oven or large skillet before transferring it to a casserole dish for baking. Less clean-up means more time for family games after dinner, which is always the goal at Mister Recipes. This makes it a healthy one pot crustless chicken pot pie option (though you do need a baking dish for the final step).
• Ultimate Comfort Food Without the Guilt: Pot pie is the equivalent of a warm hug in a bowl, but the traditional version can be heavy. By lightening the structure and focusing on vegetables (carrots, celery, peas, and maybe even some sweet potatoes), we achieve that hearty, familiar comfort without the dense, often overwhelming calories of a double crust. It’s the perfect transition from a cold winter night to a cozy evening.
• Customizable Veggies: Jana, my picky eater, sometimes raises an eyebrow at classic peas and carrots. This recipe is flexible! Swap them for spinach, corn, green beans, or even mushrooms. It’s a great way to sneak in extra nutrition. Speaking of great chicken meals, if you’re looking for another quick option, try my Chicken and Vegetable Skillet.

It’s warm, it’s creamy, and it uses ingredients you already have in your pantry. Grab your apron, friends. We’re cooking up some happiness tonight!

Ingredients for High Protein Crustless Chicken Pot Pie

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of its components. We rely on everyday pantry staples to create an exceptionally deep flavor profile.

• The Protein Base:
  • 2 lbs chicken breast, cooked and shredded (This is a great place to use leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken in a pinch for an incredibly easy crustless chicken pot pie.)
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or cottage cheese (blended smooth, for an extra protein boost and creamy texture, a tip I picked up when researching similar healthy recipes like this version from The Clean Eating Couple).
• The Aromatics & Vegetables:
  • 2 Tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup carrots, chopped
  • 1 cup celery, chopped
  • 1 cup frozen peas and corn mix (no need to thaw)
  • Optional: 1 cup chopped sweet potatoes, small dice (adds great texture and nutrition)
• The Creamy Sauce:
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (use gluten-free flour for a true GF crustless chicken pot pie)
  • 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium is best)
  • 1/2 cup milk or half and half (or non-dairy milk alternative like almond milk)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

The secret is building flavor layer by layer. Don’t rush the initial sauté of the vegetables, they are the foundation.

How to Make High Protein Crustless Chicken Pot Pie

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Make sure your chicken breast is already cooked and shredded. If using cottage cheese, blend it in a small blender until perfectly smooth, setting it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large Dutch oven or deep skillet, melt the butter or heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 to 7 minutes. You want them tender, but not mushy.
3. Add the Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. This part is crucial, the smell right here is pure comfort. Do not let the garlic burn, or it will turn bitter.
4. Build the Roux (Thickening Agent): Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes. The flour will absorb the fat, creating a slight paste—this is your simple roux foundation, which provides incredible body to the sauce.
5. Deglaze and Simmer: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Next, pour in the milk or half and half. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat immediately to a simmer. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, usually about 3 to 5 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon.
6. Fold in the Fillings and Protein: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the shredded chicken breast (or rotisserie chicken), the frozen peas and corn, and any optional add-ins like spinach or sweet potatoes. Now, stir in your secret protein boost: the smooth Greek yogurt or blended cottage cheese. Taste the filling and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remember, this must taste perfectly seasoned now, as the flavors won’t intensify much in the oven.
7. Bake the Pot Pie: Pour the entire creamy, vegetable-studded mixture into your prepared casserole dish. You can smooth the top with a spatula. Place the dish in the preheated oven.
8. The Finish: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The edges of the filling should be bubbling beautifully, and the top will be lightly golden brown. The goal is to heat everything through and let the flavors meld perfectly.
9. Rest and Serve: Let the High Protein Crustless Chicken Pot Pie rest on the counter for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This resting time is vital; it allows the sauce to set up completely, ensuring a thick, hearty serving. Scoop generous amounts onto plates and watch the family gather around, drawn in by the pure aroma of traditional pot pie comfort.

This dish captures the essence of classic chicken pot pie soup but serves it in a more substantial, casserole-style format. It’s perfect for meal prepping too! Next time, I think I’ll try prepping this filling and making it into a proper GF crustless chicken pot pie by topping it with biscuits.

Pro Tips & Variations

Cooking isn’t just about following directions; it’s about adjusting and experimenting until you find the perfect rhythm for your kitchen. Emily and I have made this crustless chicken pot pie so many times, we’ve developed a few tricks to make it even better, faster, and more adaptable to different dietary needs.

Chef Ben’s Optimization Hacks

• The Cooked Chicken Shortcut: Using pre-cooked chicken is the biggest time saver for this easy crustless chicken pot pie. You can cook and shred a batch of chicken earlier in the week, or just grab a rotisserie chicken. If you want to use raw chicken, cube it and cook it in the skillet first before you add the vegetables, removing it and stirring it back in step 6.
• Roast Your Veggies First: For a deeper, earthier flavor, roast the carrots, celery, and sweet potatoes (if using) for 15 minutes before adding them to the sauce. This caramelization adds an incredible depth that mimics the slow-cooked flavor one gets in a traditional pot pie.
• Boost the Umami: Before adding the broth, stir in a teaspoon of white miso paste or a splash of Worcestershire sauce. I use this trick often, including in my recipe for a Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, it adds a richness that makes the overall flavor profile much more complex without being overpowering.
• Use a Non-Traditional Topping: If you really miss the crunch of a crust but want to keep it light or low carb, sprinkle the top of the pot pie casserole with crushed butter crackers, torn pieces of brioche or sourdough (for those not counting carbs), or even shredded parmesan cheese mixed with a little coconut flour for a pseudo-crust.

Dietary Variations for Crustless Pot Pie

This recipe is already health-conscious, but it’s exceptionally easy to pivot for other needs:

• Keto/Low Carb Crustless Chicken Pot Pie: This filling is inherently low-carb, but ensure you use heavy cream instead of half-and-half, and thicken the sauce using xantham gum, glucomannan, or cream cheese instead of flour. Omit the carrots and corn, and increase the amount of low-carb vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and cauliflower. This transition makes the dish a perfect keto crustless chicken pot pie.
• Gluten-Free Crustless Chicken Pot Pie: Easily achieved! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour in the roux with an equal amount of your favorite gluten-free flour blend (cup-for-cup works well) or tapioca starch/cornstarch.
• Dairy-Free/Vegan Variation: Replace the milk/half-and-half with a creamy plant-based milk (like full-fat oat milk or cashew milk) and use a dairy-free cream cheese or thick coconut cream for the tanginess and richness. For a vegan pot pie, replace the chicken with chickpeas, cannellini beans, or large chunks of firm tofu.
• Slow Cooker Crustless Chicken Pot Pie: Yes, you can adapt this! Combine all ingredients, except the milk/thickener and frozen vegetables, in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 3-4 hours. In the last 30 minutes, stir in the milk/thickener mixture and the frozen peas/corn. You’ll get more of a chicken pot pie soup consistency, but it’s delicious and totally hands-off.

For more flexible, protein-heavy meals, you might also like my deep-dive on making 38g Protein Chicken Enchiladas.

High Protein Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Serving Suggestions

Because this High Protein Crustless Chicken Pot Pie is rich and hearty on its own, it pairs wonderfully with sides that offer texture, freshness, or a little acidity to cut through the creaminess. When Adams and Jana are happy, Emily is happy, and I’ve found these pairings always win.

• Crusty Bread or Biscuits (for Dipping): Even though we eliminated the crust from the pot pie, sometimes you just need something bready for soaking up that incredible gravy. Serving thick slices of warm, crusty sourdough or flaky, homemade biscuits on the side means everyone gets the dipping pleasure. For a healthier option, use whole wheat tortillas warmed in the oven.
• Simple Garden Salad: A bright, refreshing salad is the perfect counterpoint. Keep it simple: mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette made with olive oil and lemon juice. The acidity of the dressing cleanses the palate and balances the savory richness of the pot pie filling.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts or Asparagus: Roasted green vegetables provide necessary texture and a slight bitterness, which is fantastic with the creamy chicken filling. Toss your Brussels sprouts with a little balsamic glaze and a pinch of salt—they roast quickly while the pot pie is finishing.
• Mashed Potatoes or Cauliflower Mash: This is for those nights when only ultimate comfort will do. Serving the pot pie over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes is a regional tradition in some Southern states. If you’re keeping it low carb, a buttery mashed cauliflower is a fantastic substitute that maintains the creamy texture.
• Cranberry Sauce: Hear me out! A dollop of lightly sweetened cranberry relish or sauce on the side adds a tart tang that’s often overlooked but amazing with savory chicken dishes. It’s not just for Thanksgiving; it’s the secret ingredient that elevates the whole meal.

Preparing sides like a simple salad or roasting green beans is easy work that makes the whole plate feel complete, ensuring your family eats a balanced meal alongside this fantastic easy crustless chicken pot pie.

High Protein Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Storage & Reheating

This easy crustless chicken pot pie is wonderful for meal prepping, and the leftovers are arguably even better the next day once the flavors have had a chance to deepen. Jana loves taking a piece in her lunchbox (warmed up, of course!).

Storage

• Refrigeration: Cool the casserole completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes beautifully. Divide the cooled pot pie into individual serving containers or leave it in the baking dish, ensuring it is sealed with a double layer of wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. For best results, use a filling thickened with flour; low-carb thickeners like cream cheese can sometimes separate upon thawing.

Reheating

• Oven (Best Method): This is the ideal way to reheat, as it prevents the filling from becoming watery. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the portion in an oven-safe dish, cover loosely with foil, and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until bubbling hot throughout.
• Microwave (Quick Method): If you’re pressed for time, individual servings can be quickly reheated in the microwave. Cover the dish with a paper towel and heat on medium power for 90 seconds to 2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

FAQ about High Protein Crustless Chicken Pot Pie

Q: Can I use different vegetables in this crustless chicken pot pie?

A: Absolutely! This is incredibly adaptable. While the classic combination uses peas and carrots, feel free to substitute or add other hardy vegetables. Great options include sweet potatoes, mushrooms, spinach, green beans, or even small chunks of broccoli. Just ensure any hard vegetables (like sweet potatoes) are diced small so they cook through quickly.

Q: What’s the best way to get that high protein content?

A: The true secret to making this a High Protein Crustless Chicken Pot Pie (besides the generous amount of shredded chicken) is using Greek yogurt or cottage cheese (blended until smooth). This swap replaces some of the cream fat with protein, making the sauce incredibly rich and satisfying without adding excess calories or carbs. You can also mix in a scoop of unflavored collagen powder during the simmering step for an invisible protein boost!

Q: Is this crustless chicken pot pie gluten-free?

A: It can easily be made a gluten free crustless chicken pot pie. The only ingredient containing gluten is the all-purpose flour used to thicken the sauce. Simply swap it out for a measure-for-measure gluten-free flour blend, rice flour, or cornstarch (cornstarch will give you a slightly glossier sauce). The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Q: Can I turn this into more of a chicken pot pie soup?

A: Yes! To make it a chicken pot pie soup, simply increase the amount of chicken broth by 1 to 2 cups. You can also thin out the base by reducing the amount of flour/thickener. Serve it in bowls with a piece of crusty bread for dipping, or crumble crackers on top for a ‘crust’ texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something sacred about cooking for your family. It’s more than just putting food on the table, it’s about nurturing, connecting, and creating those sensory memories that Adams and Jana will one day tell their own children about, just like I talk about Grandmother’s Texas BBQ. This High Protein Crustless Chicken Pot Pie is one of those dishes, a comforting classic stripped down to its essential goodness, perfect for gathering the family on a chilly evening.

It proves that convenience and health don’t have to sacrifice flavor or tradition. We managed to create a wholesome, easy crustless chicken pot pie that tastes like a weekend project but requires a weeknight effort. That’s a win in my book.

Happy cooking, friends. From my kitchen to yours.

If you loved this recipe, please share it! Leave a comment below and let me know how your family enjoyed this high-protein twist on comfort food. And don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest!