I absolutely love sharing this One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie Recipe because it feels like the ultimate comfort food done right. This dish combines tender gnocchi, juicy chicken, and a medley of savory vegetables all simmered together in a creamy, flavorful broth that tastes like a warm hug on a chilly evening. It’s one of those recipes that’s quick enough for weeknights but special enough to impress family or friends, and since it all cooks in one pot, cleanup is a breeze — which I’m always grateful for!
Why You'll Love This One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
What really pulls me toward this One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie Recipe is the beautiful balance of rich and cozy flavors. The silky, pillowy gnocchi soak up the garlicky, herb-infused broth that’s lightly thickened to just the right consistency. Every bite delivers a mouthful of tender chicken and perfectly cooked veggies with a subtle hint of thyme and poultry seasoning that makes it feel deeply savory but never heavy. I find it hard to resist second helpings!
Another reason I adore this dish is how incredibly straightforward it is to prepare — one pot is all you need. I appreciate recipes that let me deliver big flavors without fuss or multiple pans, especially on busy nights when I want something satisfying but don’t want to live in the kitchen for hours. Getting full flavor and a hearty meal in a fraction of the usual time is always a win in my book.
If I’m being honest, this recipe shines for so many occasions. Family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even a cozy solo meal when I just want something comforting — it hits the spot. The fact it’s adaptable too means I often keep it in my regular rotation because it’s just that reliable and delicious every time I make it.
Ingredients You'll Need
This recipe is wonderfully simple yet the ingredients are carefully chosen so each one shines in the final dish. From the fresh vegetables to the dairy or dairy-free milk alternative, everything contributes texture, flavor, or color to create a pot pie experience in a bowl.
TIP : You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below
- Butter or vegan butter: This is my base for sautéing the veggies, giving a rich flavor and silky texture to the sauce.
- Carrots: They add a subtle sweetness and vibrant color that brighten up the dish.
- Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms bring earthiness and depth in flavor that balances the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Celery: Thinly sliced celery provides a classic pot pie crunch and freshness.
- Shallot or onion: This aromatic foundation adds sweetness and complexity when sautéed well.
- Homemade seasoned salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning throughout and layering flavor.
- Garlic: I love the way freshly minced garlic awakens the savory broth.
- Poultry seasoning: The nostalgic pot pie spice that brings the whole dish together.
- Dried thyme: Just a pinch for an herbal lift that complements chicken perfectly.
- Flour (gluten-free or all-purpose): Creates the luscious thickened sauce that coats the gnocchi and veggies.
- Chicken stock or broth: A savory base that infuses every bite with comforting flavor.
- Milk (or almond milk): Adds creaminess without overpowering the other flavors.
- Gnocchi: The star ingredient—pillowy and tender, perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- Shredded cooked chicken breast: Protein-packed and tender, making this a satisfying meal.
- Frozen peas: They add pops of sweetness and a beautiful bright green color.
Directions
Step 1: Heat a Dutch oven or a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the butter and let it melt completely before adding your sliced carrots, mushrooms, celery, and shallots or onions.
Step 2: Sauté the vegetables until the mushrooms release their juices and the liquid evaporates—this usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. This step is important because it intensifies their flavor and makes sure the veggies are tender and not watery.
Step 3: Season everything with your homemade seasoned salt and pepper. Then lower the heat slightly and continue to sauté for another 6 to 7 minutes until the vegetables are nice and tender but still hold some texture.
Step 4: Add the minced garlic, poultry seasoning, and a pinch of dried thyme. Stir and cook for about 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the spices bloom, filling your kitchen with that cozy pot pie aroma.
Step 5: Sprinkle the flour evenly over the veggies and stir to coat for about 1 minute. This helps cook out the raw flour taste and begins to thicken the sauce.
Step 6: Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly. This will smooth out the mixture and prevent lumps. Then add the milk and raise the heat to medium-high to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 7: Once simmering, add the gnocchi to the pot and stir well to combine everything. Turn the heat down to medium and let it simmer, stirring frequently, for 5 to 6 minutes until the gnocchi are tender and cooked through.
Step 8: Finally, stir in the shredded chicken and frozen peas. Let everything warm through for another minute or two. Taste and adjust with more seasoned salt and pepper if needed.
Step 9: Serve hot in bowls and enjoy the cozy comfort of a pot pie without the fuss of a crust!
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 4 hearty servings, perfect for a family dinner or meal prepping for a couple of nights. The prep time is roughly 10 minutes since most ingredients just need slicing or chopping. Cooking takes about 30 to 35 minutes, including sautéing the veggies, simmering the sauce, and cooking the gnocchi. Total time from start to finish is approximately 45 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner option that doesn’t feel rushed but still gets on the table quickly. There’s no additional resting or cooling time needed — it’s best enjoyed fresh and piping hot.
How to Serve This One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
When I serve this One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie Recipe, I love pairing it with crisp, fresh sides like a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or steamed green beans to add some contrasting crunch and brightness. Roasted Brussels sprouts or a citrusy slaw also work wonderfully to balance out the creamy richness of the dish.
For garnishing, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few thyme leaves on top instantly brightens the presentation and adds a pop of color that makes the bowls feel even more inviting. Sometimes I like to shave a little Parmesan or sprinkle nutritional yeast for an extra layer of flavor right before serving.
When it comes to beverages, a chilled glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce and tender chicken. For a non-alcoholic option, I enjoy sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or a cold herbal iced tea to refresh the palate. This dish is versatile enough for cozy weeknight dinners, casual family gatherings, or even a comforting meal to share on a chilly weekend afternoon. I always recommend serving this vibrant comfort bowl hot and fresh to truly savor the textures and flavors.
Variations
I love customizing this recipe depending on what I have on hand or to suit my mood. For instance, if you prefer another protein, you can easily swap the shredded chicken for cooked turkey, even sausage, or for a vegetarian option, substitute with diced tofu or tempeh. For vegan adaptations, use vegan butter and a plant-based milk like oat or cashew, along with vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. The magic of this recipe is that it stays just as satisfying and cozy.
If you want to switch up the flavor profile, try adding a little smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a gentle kick, or fresh herbs like rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a slightly different fragrant note. You can also toss in some chopped kale or spinach near the end for an extra boost of greens and nutrition. Another fun twist is swapping gnocchi for small pasta shapes or even cubed potatoes if you’re in the mood for a bit of variety.
Finally, I sometimes cook this dish in a heavy skillet instead of a Dutch oven if needed, just making sure to keep an eye on the liquid so nothing sticks. The one-pot method always keeps things easy and minimizes cleanup, which is a huge plus when I want a delicious meal without the hassle.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, I recommend transferring the pot pie to an airtight container and storing it in the refrigerator. It keeps really well for about 3 to 4 days. Using a glass or BPA-free plastic container with a good seal helps maintain freshness and prevents any absorption of other fridge odors. Before storing, make sure the dish has cooled to room temperature to avoid excess condensation inside the container.
Freezing
This One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie Recipe freezes moderately well, although the texture of the gnocchi may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, spoon portions into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
I find the best way to reheat this dish is gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat. Add a splash of broth or milk as you warm it up to help loosen the sauce and keep everything creamy and smooth. Stir frequently to prevent sticking or drying out. Avoid microwaving for extended periods as it can make the gnocchi tough or rubbery. If using a microwave, reheat in short bursts and stir in between until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought cooked chicken or leftovers for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using cooked chicken you already have on hand, whether from a rotisserie or leftovers, works perfectly and speeds up the preparation. Just shred or chop the chicken and add it as directed near the end of cooking to warm through.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, definitely. Simply use gluten-free all-purpose flour and gluten-free gnocchi, which are increasingly easy to find in most grocery stores. Make sure your chicken broth is also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy all the comfort without worrying about gluten.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the vegetables and shred the chicken a day ahead to save time. However, I recommend cooking and simmering the gnocchi just before serving, as they can become mushy if cooked too far in advance. The sauce and veggies can be made earlier and warmed gently before adding gnocchi.
What can I substitute if I can’t find gnocchi?
If gnocchi isn’t available, small pasta shapes like mini shells, or even bite-sized potato cubes, can be great alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they are tender but not overcooked.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To veganize this dish, swap out the butter for vegan butter or oil, use plant-based milk like almond or oat, replace chicken stock with vegetable broth, and either omit the chicken or substitute with tofu or chickpeas for protein. I’ve tried this version and it’s just as comforting and delicious!
Conclusion
If you’re craving a warm, hearty meal that’s simple to make but loaded with comforting flavor, I hope you’ll give this One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie Recipe a try. It’s one of those dishes I always come back to whenever I want that classic pot pie taste without the fuss. Cozy, creamy, and satisfying, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen just like it is in mine!
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One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie is a comforting, easy-to-make stovetop dish featuring tender sautéed vegetables, creamy chicken broth, and soft gnocchi all cooked together in a Dutch oven. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, it combines the rich flavors of traditional chicken pot pie without the fuss of a crust, making it both hearty and convenient.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 4 Tablespoons butter or vegan butter
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 4 oz mushrooms (sliced)
- 1 large or 2 small ribs celery (thinly sliced)
- 1 large shallot or small onion (chopped)
- homemade seasoned salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic (pressed or minced)
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- pinch dried thyme
Thickening and Liquids
- 3 Tablespoons gluten free flour (or all-purpose flour if not gluten free)
- 2 cups chicken stock or broth
- 1 cup milk (any kind, unsweetened almond milk recommended)
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz package gluten free gnocchi
- 1½ cups shredded chicken breast (approximately ½ lb pre-cooked)
- ½ cup frozen peas
Instructions
- Saute veggies: Heat a Dutch oven or large soup pot over medium-high heat. Melt the butter, then add the sliced carrots, mushrooms, celery, and chopped shallots or onions. Sauté until the mushrooms release their liquid and the liquid evaporates, about 3-4 minutes. Season with homemade seasoned salt and pepper, then reduce the heat slightly and continue to sauté until all vegetables are tender, approximately 6-7 minutes.
- Add aromatics: Add the pressed garlic, poultry seasoning, and dried thyme to the sautéed vegetables. Cook while stirring until the garlic becomes very fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Thicken the mixture: Sprinkle the gluten free (or all-purpose) flour evenly over the vegetable mixture. Stir to coat all vegetables and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add liquids and cook gnocchi: Slowly pour in the chicken stock while continuously stirring to prevent lumps from forming. Add the milk and increase the heat to medium-high. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Simmer with gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the simmering broth and stir to combine. Reduce heat to medium and simmer, stirring frequently, until the gnocchi are tender, about 5-6 minutes.
- Finish with chicken and peas: Stir in the shredded chicken and frozen peas. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional seasoned salt and pepper if needed. Remove from heat and ladle the hot pot pie mixture into bowls to serve immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute mushrooms with other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a different flavor.
- Use any type of milk you prefer; almond milk gives a lighter, dairy-free option.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
- If you are not gluten free, all-purpose flour and regular gnocchi can be used instead.
- Ensure the chicken is pre-cooked and shredded for quick assembly and cooking.
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