As the chill of winter settles in, I find myself reaching for comforting bowls of warmth, and this Cozy Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Soup has quickly become my go-to. With creamy goodness and hearty bites, it embraces you like a blanket on a cold day. Not only is this recipe healthy and lower in carbs, but it’s also a one-pot marvel that you can whip up in under 30 minutes! Imagine serving this wholesome dish to your family for dinner or preparing it in advance for an easy meal prep option. It’s a delightful twist on the classic pot pie, without all the fuss of a crust, making it perfect for anyone looking to savor homemade goodness without sacrificing flavor. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get cooking and discover the comforting heart of this delightful soup!
Why is this soup a must-try?
Comforting, this Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Soup is like your favorite hug in a bowl, making cold days feel cozier. Quick and Easy, it can be prepared in just under 30 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights. Healthy and Wholesome, it serves ample protein and fiber with lower carbs, making it suitable for various dietary needs. Versatile, you can easily swap ingredients like sweet potatoes or add spinach to boost nutrition, catering to your family’s preferences. Whether you’re meal prepping or serving a hearty dinner, this soup will leave everyone satisfied and asking for seconds!
Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Ingredients
• The essentials for your cozy soup!
For the Base
- Butter – Adds richness and flavor; for a dairy-free option, substitute with olive oil.
- Yellow Onion – Provides the foundational flavor that enhances the entire dish.
- Carrots – Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
- Celery – Offers a mild, fresh flavor that complements other vegetables.
- Garlic – Enhances flavors with aromatic depth; an essential in any cozy dish.
- Whole Wheat/All-Purpose Flour – Thicken the soup beautifully; switch to gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
For the Soup
- Low-Sodium Chicken Stock – The flavorful base that brings the soup to life.
- Milk – Provides creaminess; can be swapped with almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free twist.
- Sweet Potatoes – Offer a healthy starch; alternatively, use Yukon gold, russet, or baby potatoes for variety.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings that elevate all the flavors.
- Fresh Thyme – Infuses aromatic herbal notes; use dried thyme in a smaller quantity if fresh isn’t available.
For the Add-Ins
- Cooked Shredded Chicken – The main protein source; rotisserie chicken simplifies your prep work.
- Frozen Peas – Provide a pop of color and sweetness, complementing the savory elements.
- Fresh Parsley – Adds a touch of freshness; feel free to omit if you prefer.
- Baby Spinach (optional) – Boosts nutrition and adds vibrant color; an easy way to sneak in some greens.
This Crustless Chicken Pot Pie is not just a recipe; it’s a warm bowl of love that the whole family will enjoy!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cozy Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Step 1: Melt the Base
In a large Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Allow it to foam and bubble gently, creating a flavorful base for your soup. As the butter melts, prepare your vegetables by chopping one yellow onion, two carrots, and two celery stalks for a burst of flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the melted butter. Cook these aromatic vegetables for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become fragrant. You’re looking for the onion to turn translucent and the carrots to brighten in color, which will create a delicious foundation for your crustless chicken pot pie soup.
Step 3: Add Garlic for Flavor
Incorporate 2 minced garlic cloves into the pot for the last 30 seconds of cooking. Stir them in, allowing their fragrant aroma to fill your kitchen while keeping a close watch so they don’t burn. This will add a delightful depth to your cozy soup, enhancing the overall flavor profile with the richness of the garlic.
Step 4: Thicken the Soup
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir continuously for about 1 minute, ensuring each piece of vegetable is well-coated. This process will create a roux, which will thicken your Cozy Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Soup, giving it that comforting, creamy texture that everyone loves.
Step 5: Introduce the Stock and Milk
Gradually pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken stock and 1 cup of milk while stirring continuously. This combination will come together beautifully, bubbling and thickening as it heats. Add diced sweet potatoes (about 2 cups) along with salt and pepper to taste, then sprinkle in a teaspoon of fresh thyme for aromatic flair. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Step 6: Simmer Until Tender
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally and keep an eye on the sweet potatoes; they should become fork-tender but not mushy. The soup will thicken as it cooks, enveloping you in warmth and flavor, embodying the essence of a traditional pot pie without the crust.
Step 7: Combine the Main Ingredients
Stir in about 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken and 1 cup of frozen peas, allowing them to warm through for about 5 minutes. If you’re adding baby spinach for an extra nutritional boost, toss it in now. The vibrant colors will brighten your cozy crustless chicken pot pie soup, making it visually inviting.
Step 8: Final Seasoning and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or thyme if desired. Once the flavors meld together beautifully and the soup is served warm, ladle it into bowls and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a lovely finishing touch. Enjoy the comforting essence of this delicious soup with family and friends!
Expert Tips for Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Soup
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Creamier Texture: For an extra creamy soup, consider substituting heavy cream for milk during preparation. This step enhances the richness and makes every spoonful feel indulgent.
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Using Raw Chicken: If you prefer to use raw chicken instead of rotisserie, cut it into small pieces and sauté it in the pot after melting the butter. Make sure to cook it until browned before adding the vegetables.
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Avoiding Burning Garlic: When adding minced garlic, stir it in for the last 30 seconds to prevent burning. Burnt garlic can create a bitter taste, which detracts from the delicious flavor of your crustless chicken pot pie soup.
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Thickening Tips: If your soup is too thin after simmering, stir in a little more flour mixed with cold water to thicken it up. Remember to let it simmer a bit longer for the right texture.
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Stir Occasionally: Stirring occasionally while the soup simmers helps prevent the ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pot, ensuring even cooking and a well-blended flavor.
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Season to Taste: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. This simple adjustment can elevate the flavor and perfectly suit your palate.
Make Ahead Options
These Cozy Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can chop the vegetables (onion, carrots, and celery) and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days ahead of cooking. Additionally, cooked shredded chicken can be prepped and refrigerated for up to 4 days. To maintain the soup’s creamy texture, it’s best to prepare the soup base (steps 1-6) in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the base over medium heat, add the chicken, peas, and any extra ingredients (like spinach) for a quick finish. This way, you enjoy just as delicious results with minimal effort, making weeknight meals a delight!
What to Serve with Cozy Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Soup
As you savor the warm embrace of this delicious soup, consider these delightful accompaniments to create a memorable meal experience.
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Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping, the buttery, garlicky goodness adds a bold flavor that complements the soup’s creamy texture. The crunch of the crust creates a satisfying contrast with every bite.
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Homemade Almond Milk Biscuits: These soft, flaky biscuits are a wholesome choice, perfect for sopping up the hearty soup. Their nutty flavor pairs beautifully, enhancing the overall comfort of the meal.
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Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch. It beautifully balances the rich flavors of the soup, making for an appetizing contrast.
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Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal veggies with olive oil and herbs, then roast until tender. Their caramelized sweetness enriches your meal, while the textures provide a delightful contrast to the creamy soup.
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Apple Crisp for Dessert: End your meal on a sweet note with warm apple crisp. The comforting flavors of cinnamon and tender apples harmonize with the heartiness of the soup, creating a lovely finish.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio offers a crisp, refreshing pairing, enhancing the comfort of the soup while keeping the meal light.
With these delightful pairings, you’ll create a full, nourishing meal to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.
How to Store and Freeze Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4-5 days, ensuring the soup remains fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space for expansion, as soups can thicken and expand when frozen.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare this Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Soup in advance and store for a comforting meal that’s just a reheating away!
Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Variations
Feel free to personalize this cozy dish with your favorite ingredients and flavor twists for a truly unique experience!
- Dairy-Free: Replace milk with almond or coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free option that maintains richness.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour in place of regular flour to keep the soup thick while catering to gluten sensitivities.
- Veggie Boost: Add in green beans, corn, or bell peppers for more color and textures; this makes each bowl more vibrant and nutrient-rich.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for those who enjoy a little heat in their meals. It can elevate the flavor profile beautifully!
- Chicken Twist: Switch out rotisserie chicken for cooked turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version that’s just as hearty and satisfying.
- Herb Swap: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a different aromatic experience that transforms the flavor.
- Add Crunch: Top your serving with crispy onions or croutons for added texture contrast; these simple additions can make leftovers feel gourmet!
- Double the Greens: Stir in more baby spinach or kale towards the end for extra nutrition without sacrificing flavor. It’s a brilliant way to sneak in those greens for the family.
For additional inspiration, don’t miss out on trying my BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich for a delightful recipe that pairs well with any cozy soup!
Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this soup?
While rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver, you can absolutely use raw chicken instead. Simply cut the chicken into small pieces and add it to the pot right after you melt the butter. Cook the chicken thoroughly until browned before proceeding with sautéing the vegetables. This method enhances the flavor of the soup and gives you the satisfaction of using fresh ingredients.
How should I store leftovers?
After enjoying your meal, make sure to let any leftovers cool before transferring them to airtight containers. They can be refrigerated for about 4-5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the soup again, just reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Trust me, it stays delicious!
Can I freeze Crustless Chicken Pot Pie Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze this soup, pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of space at the top for expansion (soups often thicken and expand when frozen). It’s best to freeze it for up to 3 months. When it’s time to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until it’s nice and hot.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If you find your soup has thickened more than you’d like, simply add a splash of additional chicken stock or water to reach your desired consistency. Heat the soup gently over medium heat, stirring well to combine. This will keep your soup creamy and comforting without losing any of its lovely flavors.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a dairy-free version! Swap out the regular milk with almond milk or coconut milk. Additionally, use olive oil instead of butter for sautéing the vegetables. These simple substitutions allow everyone to enjoy this comforting soup while catering to dietary restrictions.
What vegetables can I substitute or add?
Feel free to get creative with the vegetables! You can substitute sweet potatoes with regular potatoes, add in green beans, or toss in some corn for a pop of flavor and texture. Remember, the more colorful the mix, the more appealing (and nutritious) your soup will be!
Comforting Crustless Chicken Pot Pie – A Healthy Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt the butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-low heat.
- Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 6-8 minutes.
- Incorporate minced garlic for the last 30 seconds of cooking.
- Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir for 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken stock and milk, add sweet potatoes, salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in shredded chicken and frozen peas, warming through for about 5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, then serve warm with parsley on top.