When the first chill of autumn air settles in, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of a hearty meal filling the kitchen. This One-Pot Chicken Gnocchi Pot Pie quickly became my go-to comfort food during those cozy evenings when all I crave is warmth and flavor. Imagine creamy chicken simmered with fresh vegetables, enveloped in tender, pillowy gnocchi that effortlessly absorbs the rich sauce—it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
I crafted this recipe as an answer to my busy weeknights, where the concept of ‘dinner’ often feels overwhelming amidst a whirlwind of tasks. The best part? It comes together in one pot, making both preparation and cleanup a breeze. Plus, it offers versatility—swap in seasonal veggies or even leftover turkey after the holidays! So, whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone just trying to break the fast-food cycle, this dish delivers on comfort and taste in spades.
Why is One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie Perfect?
Simplicity at its Finest: This recipe is designed for everyone; just one pot means minimal fuss and easy cleanup!
Comfort Food Delight: Creamy, savory chicken mingles with fresh vegetables, wrapped in soft, pillowy gnocchi, creating a dish that’s incredibly satisfying.
Time-Saving Treasure: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a hearty meal fast.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with seasonal veggies or leftover turkey for a delightful twist!
Crowd-Pleaser: Family and guests alike will love this delicious comfort food; it’s the ultimate way to gather around the table.
Get ready to enjoy cozy evenings filled with warmth, flavor, and the comfort of a home-cooked meal!
One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie Ingredients
-
For the Sauce
-
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; for a dairy-free option, try vegan butter.
-
Yellow Onion – Aromatic base for depth; finely chopped for quicker cooking.
-
Garlic – Fresh minced enhances flavor; add at the right moment for the best taste.
-
All-Purpose Flour or GF Flour Blend – Thickens the sauce; ensure even distribution for a smooth texture.
-
Chicken Stock – The flavorful base; homemade preferred for richer flavor.
-
Whole Milk or Half-and-Half – Makes the sauce creamy; opt for low-fat milk for a lighter version.
-
Dijon Mustard – Adds a tangy depth of flavor; just a spoonful goes a long way.
-
Italian Seasoning – Provides classic herb flavor; can be substituted with your favorite herb mix.
-
Nutmeg – Optional spice that adds warmth; use sparingly to avoid overpowering.
-
For the Veggies
-
Carrots – Provides sweetness and texture; slice into half-moons for even cooking.
-
Celery – Contributes crispness and aroma; diced for uniform cooking.
-
Cremini Mushrooms – Adds umami flavor; quartered to cook evenly.
-
Sweet Peas – Adds color and sweetness; can be used fresh or frozen.
-
For the Gnocchi and Protein
-
Fresh Potato Gnocchi – Heartiness factor in the dish; can be homemade or store-bought.
-
Cooked Chicken – Use rotisserie, poached, or roasted; tear into bite-sized pieces for easy incorporation.
-
To Finish
-
Fresh Thyme – Provides herby notes; substitute with dried thyme if needed.
-
Fresh Parsley – Adds color and freshness; optional garnish after cooking.
-
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
-
Grated Parmesan (optional) – The finishing touch; adds savoriness and depth.
Now, let’s dive into creating this cozy One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie that promises to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!
How to Make One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie
-
Melt Butter: In a large, deep skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat, allowing it to foam slightly. This will be the base for your savory filling!
-
Sauté Vegetables: Add in sliced carrots, diced celery, and finely chopped onion with ½ tsp salt. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 6-8 minutes.
-
Add Mushrooms & Garlic: Mix in quartered cremini mushrooms and minced garlic. Sauté until the mushrooms release moisture and become tender, approximately 5 minutes.
-
Incorporate Flour: Sprinkle all-purpose flour over the vegetable mixture. Stir to coat the vegetables well and let it cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to remove the raw flour taste.
-
Whisk in Broth: Gradually whisk in the chicken stock and whole milk, ensuring no lumps remain. Keep stirring until the mixture begins to thicken, about 5 minutes.
-
Season the Sauce: Add Dijon mustard and Italian seasoning to the pot, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to meld the flavors together.
-
Cook Gnocchi: Stir in the fresh potato gnocchi, cooking uncovered for 4-5 minutes. Stir occasionally until the gnocchi is plump and tender.
-
Add Chicken & Peas: Mix in the cooked chicken and sweet peas, simmering for an additional 3-4 minutes until everything is heated through, and the sauce reaches the desired thickness.
-
Finish with Herbs: Fold in fresh thyme and parsley, seasoning to taste with salt and pepper. Let the pot pie rest for 5 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Optional: For an extra touch, sprinkle grated Parmesan on top just before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to maintain creaminess.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of broth to restore the creamy texture. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare and chop vegetables up to 2 days in advance and store in the refrigerator to save time on busy weeknights.
Make Ahead Options
These One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop all your vegetables (carrots, celery, onions) up to 3 days in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, cooked chicken can be shredded and kept in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for later use. When you’re ready to prepare the dish, simply sauté the prepped veggies, add the flour and liquids, then mix in the gnocchi and cooked chicken. This way, you’ll have a comforting dinner on the table with minimal effort, just as delicious as when freshly made!
What to Serve with One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie?
Cozy up your meal with some delightful side dishes that perfectly complement this creamy comfort food!
-
Crispy Side Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette adds crunch and balances the richness of the pot pie.
-
Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery breadsticks perfect for dipping into the creamy filling, adding a savory comfort to your meal.
-
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy vegetables provide a delicious caramelized flavor, enhancing the heartiness of the pot pie. Their slight bitterness also complements the dish beautifully.
-
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic choice that provides an extra dose of comfort. Their creamy texture pairs perfectly with the pot pie’s rich sauce.
-
Herbed Rice Pilaf: Light and fragrant, this dish can soak up the flavorful sauce and adds a floral note to your dinner plate.
-
Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with this warm, comforting dessert. The contrast between the crisp topping and soft apples is simply heavenly.
-
Sparkling Apple Cider: This refreshing drink adds a touch of sweetness and bubbly fun to your cozy dinner. It’s perfect for complementing the savory flavors of the main dish.
Embrace the delight of a home-cooked meal with these pairings that bring warmth and joy to your dining table!
Expert Tips for One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie
-
Prep Ahead: Keep your veggies chopped and ready to streamline the cooking process and prevent any last-minute rush.
-
Avoid Clumping: When you add the flour, make sure to stir consistently to prevent lumps in your creamy sauce.
-
Monitor Gnocchi: Keep an eye on the gnocchi while it cooks; stirring helps avoid sticking and ensures even cooking throughout.
-
Use Quality Stock: Opt for homemade chicken stock for a richer flavor; it truly elevates your One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie.
-
Cool and Store: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Add a splash of broth when reheating to keep it creamy.
One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie Variations
Customize your One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie to fit your tastes and dietary needs for an even more delightful experience!
- Turkey Swap: Substitute cooked chicken with turkey for a delicious post-holiday meal that won’t go to waste. It adds a hearty touch to the dish!
- Vegetable Medley: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach to enhance the dish’s freshness and flavors. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate what’s in season.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut milk or dairy-free milk instead of whole milk for a creamy texture without the dairy. You won’t miss the creaminess at all!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a delightful heat that warms the soul. It elevates the dish to a whole new level!
- Herb Boost: Experiment with different fresh herbs like basil or oregano instead of thyme for a flavor twist that makes it uniquely yours. Each herb brings its own personality to the dish.
- Gluten-Free Upgrade: Opt for gluten-free gnocchi and flour for a gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy. It proves that comfort food can be inclusive!
- Nutty Flavor: Mix in a spoonful of tahini for a hint of nuttiness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. It’s an unexpected addition that surprises the palate!
- Mushroom Varieties: Swap cremini mushrooms for shiitake or portobello for an earthy flavor that deepens the overall taste. This adds an exciting twist to an already comforting dish.
Let your kitchen be a canvas and create a personalized masterpiece that speaks to your family’s preferences!
One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for gnocchi?
For gnocchi, it’s best to use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. They’re ideal because they create a light and fluffy texture, which is exactly what you want in this One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie.
How should I store leftovers from the One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s a great idea to gently reheat it on the stove with a splash of broth to keep it creamy and prevent it from drying out.
Can I freeze One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie?
Absolutely! You can freeze this dish in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth to maintain that lovely creamy consistency.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick while making the One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie, don’t worry! Simply whisk in a little extra chicken stock or milk until you reach your desired consistency. It’s always easy to adjust the texture to your liking.
Can I use other vegetables in this pot pie?
Yes, you can customize the recipe! Feel free to incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or green beans. Substitute or mix and match according to your preferences. The more the merrier, and it’s a fantastic way to use up leftovers!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
For gluten-free options, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to choose gluten-free gnocchi if needed. Additionally, if you are serving this dish to pets, remember that ingredients like onions and garlic can be harmful to them, so it’s best to keep them away from this recipe.
One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie for Cozy Weeknight Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt unsalted butter over medium heat in a large deep skillet.
- Add sliced carrots, diced celery, and chopped onion with salt. Cook until softened, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add quartered cremini mushrooms and minced garlic. Sauté until mushrooms release moisture, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetable mixture and stir to coat; cook for 2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in chicken stock and whole milk until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Dijon mustard and Italian seasoning; bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in fresh potato gnocchi and cook uncovered for 4-5 minutes.
- Mix in cooked chicken and sweet peas; simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Fold in fresh thyme and parsley; season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Let the pot pie rest for 5 minutes before serving.