One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

My family are self-confessed comfort food fanatics, and weeknight dinners often revolve around dishes that are warm, hearty, and satisfying. Pot pie is a classic in our house, but sometimes the traditional pastry crust feels a little too labor-intensive for a busy evening. That’s where this One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie became a game-changer. Imagine all the cozy, creamy goodness of chicken pot pie, but simplified and elevated with pillowy soft gnocchi instead of a fussy crust. The first time I made this, the aroma alone had everyone gathered in the kitchen, practically inhaling the savory steam. And the taste? Pure bliss. My kids, who are usually picky about vegetables, devoured every bite, declaring it the “best pot pie ever!” The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked gnocchi create a symphony of textures and flavors that is both comforting and surprisingly sophisticated. Plus, the fact that it’s all made in one pot? Cleanup is a breeze! If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, look no further. This One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie is your answer. Get ready to experience pot pie perfection, simplified and utterly delicious.

Ingredients

This recipe utilizes simple, readily available ingredients to create a dish bursting with flavor and comforting textures. Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie to life:

• Protein:
  • 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Chicken thighs are preferred for their richer flavor and moisture, but breasts will also work beautifully. Cut into 1-inch cubes. Using a good quality, ethically sourced chicken will significantly enhance the overall taste of your pot pie.
• Vegetables:
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil or Butter: For sautéing the vegetables and adding a base of flavor. Butter will lend a richer taste, while olive oil is a healthier option.
  • 1 Large Yellow Onion: Diced. Onions form the aromatic foundation of many great dishes, and pot pie is no exception. Yellow onions offer a balanced, slightly sweet flavor when cooked.
  • 2 Carrots: Peeled and diced. Carrots add sweetness, color, and a touch of earthy flavor to the pot pie. Make sure to dice them into small, even pieces so they cook through in the same time as the other vegetables.
  • 2 Celery Stalks: Diced. Celery provides a subtle savory note and a pleasant textural contrast. Similar to carrots, ensure they are diced uniformly for even cooking.
  • 8 oz Cremini Mushrooms: Sliced or quartered. Cremini mushrooms, also known as baby bellas, offer a deeper, more umami flavor than white button mushrooms. You can substitute white button mushrooms if needed, but creminis are highly recommended.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas: Adds a pop of sweetness, color, and freshness. Frozen peas are convenient and retain their texture and flavor well. Add them towards the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
  • 1 cup Frozen Corn: Similar to peas, frozen corn brings sweetness and a pleasant chewiness. It also adds visual appeal to the dish. Add it towards the end of cooking.
• Dairy & Creaminess:
  • 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter: Used to create the roux for the creamy sauce. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the final dish.
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour: The thickening agent for the creamy sauce. Ensure it’s all-purpose flour for the right consistency.
  • 3 cups Chicken Broth: The liquid base for the sauce. Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content. High-quality chicken broth will contribute significantly to the overall flavor.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce. Heavy cream will result in a thicker, richer sauce, while half-and-half offers a slightly lighter option. For a lighter dish, you can even use whole milk, but the sauce will be less thick.
  • 1/2 cup Milk: Contributes to the creamy texture and thins the sauce to the perfect consistency. Whole milk is preferred, but 2% milk will also work.
• Flavor Enhancers & Seasonings:
  • 1 tsp Dried Thyme: Adds a classic herbaceous note that complements chicken and vegetables beautifully. Dried thyme is convenient and readily available, but fresh thyme (about 1 tbsp chopped) can also be used.
  • 1/2 tsp Dried Rosemary: Rosemary adds a piney, aromatic depth that pairs wonderfully with chicken and earthy vegetables. Dried rosemary is potent, so use it sparingly. Fresh rosemary (about 1 tsp chopped) can also be used.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder: Provides a savory garlic flavor that enhances the overall taste. Garlic powder is convenient and evenly distributes the garlic flavor throughout the dish.
  • 1/2 tsp Onion Powder: Reinforces the onion flavor and adds depth. Similar to garlic powder, onion powder provides a consistent onion flavor.
  • Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process. Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for its superior flavor.
  • Optional: Pinch of Nutmeg: A tiny pinch of nutmeg adds a warm, subtle spice that enhances the creamy sauce. Use it sparingly, as it can be overpowering.
  • Optional: Fresh Parsley, chopped: For garnish and a fresh, herbaceous finish. Fresh parsley adds a vibrant color and a bright, clean flavor.
• Gnocchi:
  • 1 lb Shelf-Stable Gnocchi: The star of the show! Shelf-stable gnocchi is convenient and cooks directly in the pot pie sauce, absorbing all the delicious flavors. Look for potato gnocchi for the best texture and flavor. Avoid fresh gnocchi for this recipe as it can become too soft and mushy when cooked in the sauce for an extended period.

Instructions

This One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie is designed for ease and simplicity. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a comforting and flavorful meal in just one pot:

1. Sauté the Vegetables and Chicken: In a large, deep pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Don’t worry about cooking it all the way through at this stage as it will finish cooking in the sauce. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. Build the Aromatic Base: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions become translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. This step is crucial for building the flavor base of your pot pie.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms: Add the sliced or quartered mushrooms to the pot with the softened vegetables. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the mushrooms have released their moisture and are beginning to brown slightly. Stir occasionally. Mushrooms add a wonderful depth of flavor, so don’t rush this step.
4. Create the Roux: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the 4 tablespoons of butter to the pot and let it melt completely. Once melted, sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the vegetables and butter. Stir continuously with a whisk or wooden spoon for 1-2 minutes, until the flour is fully incorporated and the mixture starts to smell slightly nutty and toasted. This is your roux, the base of your creamy sauce. Cooking the roux is essential to avoid a floury taste in the final dish.
5. Gradually Add the Broth and Dairy: Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and thickened slightly. This process ensures a creamy, lump-free sauce. Once the broth is incorporated, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and milk. Stir to combine.
6. Season the Sauce: Add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the sauce. Stir well to distribute the seasonings. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed. This is your opportunity to customize the flavor to your liking. A pinch of nutmeg can be added at this stage for extra warmth.
7. Return Chicken and Add Gnocchi: Return the browned chicken to the pot and stir to combine with the sauce. Add the shelf-stable gnocchi directly to the pot. Stir gently to ensure the gnocchi is submerged in the sauce.
8. Simmer and Cook: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the gnocchi is tender and cooked through, and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking of the gnocchi. The gnocchi will absorb some of the sauce as it cooks, becoming soft and pillowy.
9. Stir in Frozen Vegetables: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas and frozen corn. Cook until heated through and bright green, about 3-5 minutes. Adding the frozen vegetables at the end ensures they retain their color and texture.
10. Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat and let stand for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly further. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie!

Nutrition Facts (Estimated)

Please note that these are estimated nutritional values and can vary depending on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and brands. This information is for general guidance only.

• Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings
• Calories Per Serving (Estimated): 450-600 calories

Approximate Breakdown per Serving (Based on estimations):

• Protein: 30-40g
• Fat: 25-35g
• Carbohydrates: 40-50g

For more precise nutritional information, it is recommended to use a recipe analyzer tool with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. Keep in mind that this dish is a hearty and comforting meal, and while delicious and satisfying, it is best enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Preparation Time

This One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie is wonderfully efficient in terms of preparation and cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

• Prep Time: 20-25 minutes (Chopping vegetables, cubing chicken, gathering ingredients)
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes (Sautéing, simmering, cooking gnocchi)
• Total Time: Approximately 50-60 minutes

From start to finish, you can have a comforting and flavorful dinner on the table in about an hour, making it a fantastic choice for a satisfying and relatively quick meal.

How to Serve

This One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance the dining experience with some thoughtful serving suggestions:

• Classic Sides:
  • Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pot pie. Consider a salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette.
  • Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread or baguette slices for dipping into the creamy sauce. Sourdough, French bread, or even garlic bread would be excellent choices.
  • Steamed Green Beans or Asparagus: Add a side of steamed green vegetables for extra nutrients and a vibrant green color on the plate. Lightly season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
• Garnishes:
  • Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of freshness and color.
  • Cracked Black Pepper: A final grind of black pepper enhances the savory flavors.
  • Parmesan Cheese: A light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese can add a salty, umami note.
  • Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For those who like a little heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick.
• Drinks:
  • White Wine: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the creamy flavors of the pot pie.
  • Light Beer: A light lager or pale ale can be a refreshing complement.
  • Iced Tea or Lemonade: For a non-alcoholic option, iced tea or lemonade provides a refreshing contrast.
  • Warm Apple Cider (Fall/Winter): In colder months, warm apple cider is a cozy and comforting pairing.

Additional Tips for Pot Pie Perfection

Here are five helpful tips to elevate your One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie and ensure it’s a resounding success:

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: When sautéing the chicken and vegetables, work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pot. Overcrowding can steam the ingredients instead of browning them properly, which reduces flavor development. Browning is key for building a rich and savory base.
2. Toast the Roux Properly: Cooking the roux (butter and flour mixture) for 1-2 minutes is crucial. This “toasting” process eliminates the raw flour taste and helps the sauce thicken properly. Stir continuously and watch for a slightly nutty aroma and a light golden color.
3. Use Good Quality Broth: The chicken broth is a significant component of the sauce’s flavor. Using a good quality, low-sodium chicken broth will make a noticeable difference. Homemade broth is ideal, but a good store-bought brand is a great alternative. Low sodium allows you to control the saltiness of the final dish.
4. Season in Layers: Seasoning throughout the cooking process is essential. Season the chicken as it browns, season the vegetables as they sauté, and season the sauce generously. Taste and adjust seasoning at each stage to ensure the flavors are well-balanced and vibrant. Don’t be afraid to be generous with salt and pepper – they are crucial for bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients.
5. Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to customize the vegetables to your liking or based on what you have on hand. Other great additions include: diced potatoes, parsnips, butternut squash (diced small), green beans (cut into 1-inch pieces), or even spinach (stirred in at the very end). Just ensure any root vegetables are diced small enough to cook through in the allotted time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are five frequently asked questions about making One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie:

Q1: Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of shelf-stable gnocchi?

A: While fresh gnocchi is delicious, it’s not recommended for this particular recipe. Fresh gnocchi is much more delicate and cooks very quickly. When simmered in the pot pie sauce for an extended period, it can become overly soft and mushy. Shelf-stable gnocchi is designed to hold its shape and texture better during longer cooking times, making it ideal for this one-pot dish.

Q2: Can I make this pot pie ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie ahead of time. It’s a great make-ahead meal! You can prepare it completely, up to step 9 (before adding frozen vegetables), and then refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Then, stir in the frozen peas and corn and cook until heated through. You might need to add a splash of extra broth or milk if the sauce has thickened too much during refrigeration.

Q3: Can I freeze leftover One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie?

A: Freezing is not highly recommended for this particular dish due to the creamy sauce and gnocchi. Cream-based sauces can sometimes separate or become grainy when thawed and reheated. Gnocchi can also become slightly mushy after freezing and thawing. However, if you do choose to freeze leftovers, allow the pot pie to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring frequently. The texture might be slightly altered, but it will still be edible.

Q4: I don’t have heavy cream or half-and-half. Can I use milk instead?

A: Yes, you can use milk instead of heavy cream or half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich and slightly thinner. Whole milk will provide a creamier result than 2% or skim milk. You can also try using evaporated milk for a richer sauce with milk as a base. If you want a thicker sauce with milk, you can whisk together a tablespoon of cornstarch with a couple of tablespoons of cold milk and stir it into the pot pie sauce during the last few minutes of cooking to help thicken it further.

Q5: Can I add different herbs or spices to this recipe?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking. Good additions include: bay leaf (added to the sauce while simmering and removed before serving), dried sage, dried oregano, paprika (smoked or sweet), a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat, or fresh herbs like chives, chervil, or tarragon added at the end as a garnish. Start with small amounts and taste as you go to find your perfect flavor combination.

Enjoy making and savoring this delightful and easy One-Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and deliciousness to any table.

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