After a long day filled with hustle and bustle, there's nothing quite like the warmth and comfort of a homemade meal. That’s where my Cheesy Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Casserole shines! When the craving for something cozy and satisfying hits, this dish delivers creamy goodness topped with a golden, bubbly cheese crust—without the fuss of a traditional pastry crust.
Inspired by the classic chicken pot pie, this casserole transforms leftover chicken into a delightful comfort food masterpiece. With its gluten-free twist, it’s the perfect solution to satisfy your dinner cravings while keeping things simple and delicious. Whether you’re a busy parent or just someone looking to escape the fast-food rut, this dish promises minimal prep and maximum flavor. Plus, it’s easily adaptable for those on keto or gluten-free diets! Dive into this easy weeknight dinner that’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your home.
Why is this Cheesy Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Casserole a Must-Try?
Simplicity and Comfort: This Cheesy Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Casserole is an effortless dish that transforms leftover chicken into a family favorite in no time.
Creamy Delight: The rich filling, combined with a golden cheese topping, delivers serious comfort in every bite.
Versatile Options: Easily adapt this recipe for gluten-free or keto diets—just swap in your favorite ingredients to suit your dietary needs.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, it uses minimal prep time while packing loads of flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it's a cozy family dinner or entertaining friends, this casserole is sure to impress!
Cheesy Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Casserole Ingredients
For the Filling
- Ghee or Butter – Adds richness and flavor; substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
- Onion – Provides savory depth; swap with shallots for a milder touch.
- Red Potatoes – Offers heartiness; sweet potatoes can provide a sweeter flavor profile.
- Garlic – Enhances the overall flavor; optional for those sensitive to stronger tastes.
- Non-GMO Cornstarch or Arrowroot Powder – Thickener for the sauce; replace with tapioca starch for a paleo-friendly choice.
- Chicken Broth – Adds moisture; vegetable broth works for a vegetarian version.
- Cream Cheese – Delivers creaminess; use dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan option.
- Frozen Peas & Carrots – Contributes color and value; fresh veggies can also be used.
- Cooked Chicken – The protein star; leftover rotisserie chicken works beautifully.
For Toppings
- Mature Cheddar Cheese – Offers that signature sharp flavor; substitute with dairy-free cheese for lactose-free options.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential seasoning; adjust to fit your taste palate.
- Fresh Parsley – An optional garnish that adds freshness; feel free to omit if not available.
Discover the comforting flavors of this Cheesy Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Casserole, and let your kitchen be filled with the warmth of a homemade meal!
How to Make Cheesy Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
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Sauté Vegetables: Heat ghee or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and red potatoes, stirring occasionally for 8-10 minutes. Add minced garlic in the last minute until fragrant.
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Mix Thickener: In a mason jar, combine non-GMO cornstarch (or arrowroot powder) with chicken broth. Shake until well mixed and set aside to thicken the sauce.
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Create Sauce: Pour the broth mixture into the skillet, followed by cream cheese. Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
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Combine Ingredients: Gently fold in the frozen peas, carrots, and cooked chicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing until everything is well-coated with the creamy sauce.
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Bake: Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 baking dish. Sprinkle a generous layer of mature cheddar cheese on top. Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. For extra crustiness, broil for an additional 3-5 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Optional: Top with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F or microwave until heated through.
Freezer: Freeze the casserole before baking for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, ensuring no air is trapped.
Thawing: To use, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. Bake from thawed to achieve a crispy top.
Reheating: If reheating from frozen, increase baking time by 10-15 minutes, ensuring the center reaches 165°F for safety. Enjoy your Cheesy Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Casserole with confidence!
Expert Tips for Cheesy Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
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Large Skillet: Ensure your skillet is spacious enough to easily accommodate all the ingredients without overcrowding, promoting even cooking.
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Quick Protein: For a faster option, use pre-cooked chicken or leftover rotisserie chicken. It saves time and enhances flavor effortlessly in this cheesy crustless chicken pot pie casserole.
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Prevent Clumping: Mix the cornstarch with cold chicken broth before adding it to the skillet. This helps avoid clumps and yields a smoother sauce.
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Monitor Broiling: Keep a close eye while broiling the cheese for that crispy topping to prevent burning; it can go from perfectly browned to burnt in a blink!
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Taste Adjustment: As you season with salt and pepper, remember to taste periodically. The richness of the cream cheese can mellow out flavors, so adjust as needed.
Cheesy Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Casserole Variations
Feel free to customize this comforting casserole to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
- Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and load it up with extra veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free delight.
- Keto-Friendly: Swap the red potatoes for cauliflower florets to keep the dish low-carb without sacrificing that creamy goodness.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to kick up the heat, tantalizing your taste buds with extra warmth.
- Cheese Lover's Dream: Experiment with various cheeses, such as gouda or pepper jack, for an unforgettable flavor explosion and an even cheesier topping.
- Herbed Variation: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the filling for an added layer of aroma and flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- Creamy Mushroom: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for an earthy twist that adds depth to the creamy filling while complementing the chicken.
- Lighter Version: Use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt in place of regular cream cheese to lighten up the dish without sacrificing creaminess.
- Zesty Lemon: Add a squeeze of lemon juice and zest to the filling for a bright, fresh flavor that elevates the comforts of home cooking.
What to Serve with Cheesy Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Casserole?
The comforting warmth of this dish deserves side companions that elevate your meal to a delightful experience.
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Simple Side Salad: A vibrant mix of greens and veggies adds a refreshing crunch that balances the creaminess of the casserole. Opt for a light vinaigrette to brighten the flavors.
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Crusty Gluten-Free Bread: This provides an excellent vehicle for scooping up the cheesy filling. The toasted edges offer a satisfying contrast to the soft interior of the casserole.
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Garlic Roasted Broccoli: The slight bitterness of roasted broccoli mingles beautifully with the rich flavors, making for a nutritious and flavorful pairing.
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Creamy Mashed Cauliflower: For a low-carb option, creamy mashed cauliflower delivers comfort without heaviness. Its smooth texture complements the casserole perfectly.
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Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice mixed with herbs brings an aromatic touch to the plate, enhancing the overall dining experience with subtle flavors.
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Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with savory dishes and adds a beautiful color contrast to your meal.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay can really elevate the dinner experience, cutting through the richness of the casserole with its refreshing acidity.
These recommendations will create a meal full of heart and flavor, rounding out your dining experience with the beloved Cheesy Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Casserole at its center.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Casserole options are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can assemble the casserole (without baking) up to 24 hours in advance and simply refrigerate it until you’re ready to pop it into the oven. This means you can enjoy a homemade meal with minimal effort! To maintain the freshness and flavor, make sure to cover the dish tightly with foil. When you're ready to enjoy, preheat the oven to 400°F and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden. Just like that, a comforting dinner is on the table without the last-minute rush!
Cheesy Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Casserole Recipe FAQs
What kind of potatoes should I use for the cheesy crustless chicken pot pie casserole?
I recommend using red potatoes for their creamy texture and hearty bite, but sweet potatoes can also work beautifully if you're looking for a sweeter flavor. They add a unique twist to the dish!
How long can I store leftovers of this cheesy crustless chicken pot pie casserole?
You can store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to reheat it gently in the oven at 350°F, or in the microwave, so that it warms through without drying out.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? How?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole (without baking) a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for best results.
How do I freeze the cheesy crustless chicken pot pie casserole?
To freeze this dish, prep the casserole but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as usual for that perfect crispy topping.
What are some alternatives for the ingredients in this casserole?
If you're looking to make it gluten-free, use non-GMO cornstarch or arrowroot powder as a thickener, which is fantastic! For a keto-friendly option, try swapping the potatoes for cauliflower florets, giving you that comfort food feel while keeping it low in carbs.
Irresistibly Easy Cheesy Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat ghee or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and red potatoes, stirring occasionally for 8-10 minutes. Add minced garlic in the last minute until fragrant.
- In a mason jar, combine non-GMO cornstarch (or arrowroot powder) with chicken broth. Shake until well mixed and set aside to thicken the sauce.
- Pour the broth mixture into the skillet, followed by cream cheese. Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Gently fold in the frozen peas, carrots, and cooked chicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing until everything is well-coated with the creamy sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 baking dish. Sprinkle a generous layer of mature cheddar cheese on top. Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. For extra crustiness, broil for an additional 3-5 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
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