Crustless Rotisserie Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

This Crustless Rotisserie Chicken Pot Pie Casserole offers a deliciously creamy and cheesy filling packed with tender chicken, vegetables, and a rich sauce. Without the hassle of a crust, it’s an easy and comforting option for busy weeknights.

You can even customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of cheese. The crispy cracker topping adds a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the smooth filling, making each bite satisfying and delicious. Perfect for a cozy dinner or to feed a hungry family, this casserole is sure to become a go-to in your recipe collection.

Full Recipe:

1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
1/2 cup frozen peas
1/2 cup frozen carrots
1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)
1/4 cup chopped celery
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon parsley
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup crushed crackers (for topping)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, celery, peas, carrots, and corn. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until vegetables are tender.
Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is golden.
Slowly pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce. Add thyme, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Once the sauce thickens, stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook for 2-3 more minutes to melt the cheese.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Top with crushed crackers and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 400 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

History and Origin

While the chicken pot pie is widely known as an American comfort food, its origins can be traced back to European cooking traditions. The concept of a savory pie filled with meat and vegetables dates back to ancient Greece and Rome, where pies were made using dough to encase meats and fillings. However, it was the British and French who are credited with popularizing the modern version of chicken pot pie, often made with a flaky, buttery crust.

In the United States, chicken pot pie became a staple of home cooking, especially after the convenience of pre-made crusts and canned soups became more accessible in the 20th century. The crusted variety, typically made with a double pie crust, became a classic dish. Over time, various regional adaptations arose, but the central concept remained the same: a comforting, creamy mixture of chicken, vegetables, and a flavorful gravy, encased in a golden, flaky pastry.

This Crustless Rotisserie Chicken Pot Pie Casserole is a modern twist on the traditional recipe. It removes the need for a pie crust, simplifying the preparation and making it lighter, yet still deeply satisfying. The use of rotisserie chicken further streamlines the process, making it a go-to option for busy cooks who crave a quick and delicious dinner.

Variations and Adaptations

While the classic chicken pot pie features a rich, buttery crust, this crustless version opens up a world of possibilities for adaptations. Here are a few variations to consider:

Vegetable Additions or Substitutions – Traditional pot pie often includes peas, carrots, and celery, but you can get creative with your veggie choices. Some people like to add corn, mushrooms, or green beans for extra flavor and texture. If you’re a fan of leafy greens, spinach or kale can be a nutritious addition to the filling.
Gluten-Free Option – For those avoiding gluten, you can easily make this dish gluten-free by swapping out the flour for a gluten-free flour blend and using gluten-free crackers for the topping. This keeps the recipe intact while accommodating dietary restrictions.
Cheese Variations – While cheddar cheese is a popular choice for this casserole, you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère, mozzarella, or Parmesan, depending on your flavor preferences.
Spice It Up – If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce mixture. The subtle heat will add an exciting layer of flavor without overpowering the dish.
Make it Creamier or Lighter – For a richer casserole, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk instead of chicken broth, which will give the dish a silkier texture. For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for a lighter cream or milk, and reduce the amount of butter used.

The beauty of this recipe is that it’s incredibly flexible and can be adapted to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Nutritional Information

The Crustless Rotisserie Chicken Pot Pie Casserole provides a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. Below is an analysis of its nutritional value:

Calories: 400 kcal per serving
Protein: 30g per serving – thanks to the rotisserie chicken, which is an excellent source of lean protein.
Carbohydrates: 30g per serving – the casserole contains a moderate amount of carbs primarily from the vegetables and crushed crackers.
Fat: 20g per serving – this comes mainly from the butter, heavy cream, and cheese. You can reduce the fat content by using lower-fat cream or cheese.
Fiber: 3g per serving – vegetables like peas, carrots, and celery contribute to the fiber content, which helps with digestion.
Sodium: 600mg per serving – the sodium level is a bit high due to the use of chicken broth and cheese, but you can opt for low-sodium broth to reduce this amount.

Micronutrients like calcium and vitamin A are present thanks to the dairy and vegetables used, with the carrots and peas providing a good dose of vitamin C. This dish is also a good source of iron, especially if you incorporate spinach or other leafy greens.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Crustless Rotisserie Chicken Pot Pie Casserole can be served in a variety of ways to complement the rich flavors of the dish. Here are some creative serving suggestions:

Side Salad – A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs perfectly with this hearty casserole. The crunch of the lettuce and the acidity of the vinaigrette will balance the creamy filling of the casserole.
Bread – Serve with a warm, crusty bread or a slice of garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A buttery dinner roll or soft biscuit would also be delightful.
Roasted Vegetables – A side of roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, broccoli, or asparagus would be a great way to add more color and nutrition to the meal.
Wine Pairing – For a wine pairing, consider a full-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or a light red such as Pinot Noir. Both wines complement the creamy texture and savory flavors of the casserole without overwhelming the dish.
Perfect for Meal Prep – This casserole also works wonderfully for meal prep. Prepare a larger batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week for a quick lunch or dinner.

Tips and Tricks for Success

To ensure your Crustless Rotisserie Chicken Pot Pie Casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience: While it’s tempting to cook your own chicken, using a rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds depth of flavor to the dish. Shred the chicken and be sure to remove any skin or bones before adding it to the casserole.
Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: When sautéing the vegetables, don’t overcook them. You want them to retain a bit of crunch so they don’t turn mushy once they’re baked in the casserole.
Perfect the Cracker Topping: The crushed cracker topping is what gives this casserole its signature crunch. For the best texture, use plain crackers like Ritz, or try using whole-wheat or gluten-free crackers for a healthier option. Don’t skip this step—it adds the perfect balance to the creamy filling.
Let It Rest: After baking, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and makes it easier to slice and serve.

Potential Health Benefits

This casserole provides several health benefits due to the ingredients used. Rotisserie chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. The vegetables (peas, carrots, celery) add fiber and antioxidants, promoting good digestion and boosting immunity. Additionally, the dairy in the dish offers calcium, which supports bone health, and the fat content, while relatively high, is balanced by the presence of healthy fats in the cheese and butter.

To make it even more nutritious, consider adding spinach or kale to the casserole. These greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and they can boost the overall health benefits of the dish without compromising the flavor.

Conclusion

The Crustless Rotisserie Chicken Pot Pie Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that the whole family will love. Its creamy filling, cheesy goodness, and crispy cracker topping make it a satisfying meal that doesn’t require hours of preparation. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to share with friends and family, this casserole is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

Give it a try and let its warm, savory flavors bring comfort to your table!