When I had a particularly busy week ahead, I knew that dinnertime would often find me scrambling for something comforting yet effortless. That’s when I stumbled upon the delightful combination of chicken pot pie and fluffy gnocchi, leading to the creation of this Easy One-Pot Chicken Gnocchi Pot Pie. The first time I made it, the rich aroma of sautéed garlic and thyme filled my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits.
In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that wraps tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi in a velvety, creamy sauce. Imagine cozying up with a bowl of this decadent comfort food on a cool evening! Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; you can easily adapt it to fit gluten-free diets without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re looking to impress a crowd or simply seeking solace in a hearty meal after a long day, this one-pot wonder is here to rescue you from fast food boredom. Let’s dive in!
Why is One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie a must-try?
Comforting warmth: The creamy sauce paired with fluffy gnocchi wraps you in a cozy embrace, making it perfect for chilly evenings.
Quick preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights, eliminating the stress of dinner planning.
Crowd-pleasing flavors: Combining classic chicken pot pie flavors with a modern twist, it’s a dish everyone will enjoy.
Versatility at its best: With easy options for gluten-free adaptations, this recipe can fit various dietary needs without compromising taste.
All-in-one cooking: Say goodbye to multiple pots; this recipe uses just one, making cleanup a breeze!
One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie Ingredients
For the Base
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; you can use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
• Carrots (3 medium, sliced) – Provides natural sweetness and a pop of color.
• Celery (3 ribs, diced) – Adds a refreshing crunch and balances the flavors.
• Cremini Mushrooms (10 ounces, quartered) – Intensifies umami flavor; essential for depth.
• Yellow Onion (1 medium, finely chopped) – Aromatic base that enhances the overall taste.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Contributes depth and rich aroma; fresh garlic is ideal.
• Fresh Thyme Leaves (1 teaspoon) – Gives the dish that characteristic pot pie aroma.
• All-Purpose Flour (1/4 cup, or GF blend) – Helps thicken the sauce; ensures a deliciously coated texture.
For the Sauce
• Chicken Stock (3 cups) – The flavorful base; homemade is preferred for best taste.
• Whole Milk or Half-and-Half (1 cup) – Creates the creamy texture that comforts the soul.
• Dijon Mustard (1 tablespoon) – Elevates the flavor profile with a subtle tang.
• Italian Seasoning (1.5 teaspoons) – Infuses aromatic depth into the dish.
• Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon, optional) – Adds warmth; can be omitted if not desired.
For the Filling
• Fresh Potato Gnocchi (16 ounces) – Acts as the comforting carbohydrate, tender and perfect.
• Cooked Chicken (2.5 cups, torn) – The star protein; using rotisserie chicken makes prep quicker.
• Sweet Peas (1 cup, fresh or frozen) – Introduces sweetness and a splash of color.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste) – Key for seasoning; don’t skip this step!
For the Finish
• Fresh Parsley (1/4 cup, chopped) – For garnish, adding a fresh touch to your comforting dish.
• Grated Parmesan (optional, for serving) – Adds a savory finish that truly elevates the dish.
This One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie is ready to warm your kitchen and your heart!
How to Make One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie
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Melt the Butter: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the sliced carrots, diced celery, finely chopped onion, and a pinch of salt. Cook until everything is soft and fragrant, about 6-8 minutes.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Introduce the quartered cremini mushrooms and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them together until the mushrooms soften, which should take around 5 minutes.
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Add Flour: Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, stirring to coat the vegetables evenly. Allow it to cook for 2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste.
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Whisk in the Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken stock and whole milk (or half-and-half), stirring until the mixture is smooth. Add Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, and nutmeg, if using.
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Simmer with Gnocchi: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the fresh potato gnocchi. Cook uncovered for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the gnocchi is tender and everything is heated through.
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Incorporate Chicken and Peas: Stir in the torn cooked chicken and sweet peas, allowing the dish to simmer until the chicken is warmed and the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
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Finish with Herbs: Fold in the fresh thyme leaves and season to taste with salt and pepper. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. If desired, top with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan for a final touch!
Optional: For a garnish, try adding a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative and put your unique spin on this delicious dish!
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Turkey Swap: Substitute chicken with shredded turkey for a tasty post-holiday twist. Bring in that festive flavor any time of year!
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Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with a medley of seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers, enhancing nutrition without losing satisfaction. You’ll still enjoy a hearty meal that’s full of vibrant colors.
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Gluten-Free Gnocchi: Use gluten-free gnocchi to adapt this dish for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can indulge in this comforting favorite. It’s just as tender and fulfilling!
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Creamy Coconut: For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of whole milk or half-and-half. This adds a subtly sweet flavor that enhances the creamy sauce while keeping it light.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to heat things up. This brings an exciting warmth to every bite and wakes up your taste buds!
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Mushroom Medley: Swap cremini mushrooms for shiitake or portobello to elevate the umami flavors. A combination of these mushrooms creates a depth that makes your dish feel decadent.
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Herb Garden Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or rosemary instead of thyme for a unique twist in flavor profiles. This gives the dish a fresh, aromatic essence that’s utterly charming.
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Cheesy Surprise: Mix in some shredded cheddar to the sauce for an ultra-cheesy experience! This adds an extra layer of comfort and indulgence that’s sure to please cheese lovers.
What to Serve with One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie?
Cozy up for a delightful meal experience that complements the rich, creamy goodness of this comforting dish.
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Side Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette gives a crisp contrast and balances the richness of the pot pie.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect companion, perfect for dipping into the luscious sauce.
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Steamed Broccoli: Vibrant green steamed broccoli adds a healthy crunch, soaking up the creamy sauce while adding a pop of color.
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Herbed Rice: Light and fragrant herbed rice brings a subtle earthiness to the table, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts provide a smoky dimension that beautifully offsets the creaminess of the pie.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs effortlessly, enhancing the meal without overpowering its flavors.
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Apple Crisp: Finish your meal with a warm apple crisp, bringing a sweet, comforting touch that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Make Ahead Options
These One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie meal prep tips are a game-changer for busy home cooks! You can chop the carrots, celery, and onion up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, consider cooking the chicken and preparing the gnocchi ahead of time, which can be refrigerated for up to 2 days before you complete the recipe. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the vegetables, add the prepped ingredients, and follow the remaining steps as outlined. This way, you’ll have a comforting meal that’s just as delicious with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Freezer: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or milk to rehydrate the creamy sauce.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prep the vegetables up to 2 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator to save time on busy days.
Expert Tips for One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie
- Flour Mixing: Ensure the flour is evenly mixed with the vegetables before adding liquids to prevent lumps in your sauce.
- Rotisserie Chicken: For quicker prep, using rotisserie chicken is a game-changer that saves time without sacrificing flavor.
- Layering Seasoning: Season your dish throughout the cooking process to build rich, layered flavor—don’t wait until the end!
- Dutch Oven Use: Opt for a 5-quart (or larger) Dutch oven; it provides the perfect space for even cooking and minimizes splatter.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs and garlic for the best taste—frozen or dried options can alter the dish’s flavor profile.
One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right gnocchi?
Absolutely! When selecting fresh potato gnocchi for your One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie, look for gnocchi that feels soft but firm and has a slightly floury coating. Avoid any with dark spots or an excessively sticky texture, as these may not cook evenly. If opting for packaged gnocchi, check the expiration date to ensure freshness.
How should I store leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, I recommend warming them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or milk to restore the creamy sauce’s consistency.
Can I freeze the One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie?
Absolutely! Allow your dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then gently warm on the stove, adding a little stock or milk to bring back the creaminess.
What if my sauce is too thick?
If you find that your sauce is overly thick, you can simply add a splash of chicken stock or milk while gently stirring over low heat. This will help loosen the sauce while ensuring it remains creamy and delicious. I often recommend tasting the dish again after adjusting to ensure the flavors are just right!
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! You can easily adapt the One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie for a gluten-free diet by substituting regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and using gluten-free gnocchi. Always check labels to ensure no wheat is included, and you’ll still enjoy a delightful comfort meal!
Can my pet have this dish?
While some ingredients are safe for pets—like carrots and cooked chicken—it’s best to avoid feeding them the entire dish. Ingredients like garlic and onion can be harmful to pets, so it’s safest to serve them just the plain cooked chicken or vegetables without seasoning.
One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie: Creamy Comfort in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the sliced carrots, diced celery, finely chopped onion, and a pinch of salt. Cook until everything is soft and fragrant, about 6-8 minutes.
- Introduce the quartered cremini mushrooms and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them together until the mushrooms soften, which should take around 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, stirring to coat the vegetables evenly. Allow it to cook for 2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken stock and whole milk (or half-and-half), stirring until the mixture is smooth. Add Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, and nutmeg, if using.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the fresh potato gnocchi. Cook uncovered for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the gnocchi is tender and everything is heated through.
- Stir in the torn cooked chicken and sweet peas, allowing the dish to simmer until the chicken is warmed and the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Fold in the fresh thyme leaves and season to taste with salt and pepper. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. If desired, top with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan for a final touch!